India visa requirements for canadian citizens
Canadian citizens must obtain a visa before traveling to India. The easiest option is the e-Visa, available online. This guide explains requirements, costs, and the process of applying for an Indian visa from Canada.
Canadian citizens must hold an Indian e-Visa before traveling.
The Indian e-Visa from Canada is usually processed within 3–5 days.
Canadian citizens must obtain a visa for India before departure. The most common and convenient option is the Indian e-Visa from Canada, available entirely online. This electronic travel authorization is required for tourism, business, or medical visits. To apply, Canadians simply complete the application form, upload a passport photo and passport scan, and pay the applicable visa fees for India from Canada. Approval is usually granted within a few working days, and the e-Visa is emailed directly. This guide explains step by step how to apply for an Indian visa from Canada.
Visa for India from Canada: in brief
- Visa required – Canadian citizens must obtain an Indian visa before traveling to India.
- E-Visa available – The easiest option is the Indian e-Visa from Canada, applied for entirely online.
- Application process – Fill the form, upload documents, and pay fees to apply for an Indian visa from Canada.
- Processing time – Most Indian e-Visas for Canadians are approved within 3–5 business days.
- Validity & entries – Tourist e-Visas are valid for 30 days up to 1 year, single or multiple entry.
- Visa fees – Indian visa fees from Canada depend on type and duration, payable online in USD.
- Requirements – Canadian passport, digital photo, and travel details are mandatory.
✅ Canadian citizens need a valid visa to travel to India. Unlike some destinations that allow visa-free entry, India requires Canadian passport holders to apply in advance, regardless of the trip’s length or purpose—tourism, business, cultural visits, or medical treatment. The process is straightforward thanks to the Indian e-Visa system, which allows travelers to complete their application entirely online from Canada.
Applying for an e-Visa saves time, avoids embassy visits, and provides a convenient solution for most Canadian travelers. With just a few essential documents and an internet connection, the authorization can be obtained within a few working days.
Yes, Canadian citizens must obtain a visa to enter India. There are no exemptions for Canadian passport holders, even for short stays. The good news is that India has simplified the procedure with the e-Visa program, which is designed for foreign nationals including Canadians.
The e-Visa is valid for:
Unlike traditional paper visas, the e-Visa can be requested online and received by email, eliminating the need for in-person visits to an Indian consulate.
Absolutely. Canadian citizens can easily apply for an Indian e-Visa online from the comfort of their home. The process involves a few simple steps:
This system is designed to make traveling to India from Canada smoother and more accessible. Canadian citizens should apply at least a week before departure to avoid last-minute issues.
✅ In summary: Canadians always need a visa to enter India, but thanks to the e-Visa system, the process is quick, user-friendly, and entirely online.
Canadian citizens who wish to travel to India must apply for a visa in advance. The most convenient option is the Indian e-Visa, which can be requested online without visiting an embassy. The process is simple, user-friendly, and designed to make travel from Canada to India easier. With just a few documents and an internet connection, applicants can complete their request in minutes and receive the visa by email within a few working days.
Applying for an Indian e-Visa from Canada involves a few straightforward steps:
1️⃣ Access the official e-Visa portal – Canadian citizens can apply directly through the Indian government’s online platform. Alternatively, applications may also be submitted via authorized private providers, who sometimes offer support services for an additional fee.
2️⃣ Complete the application form – Provide your personal details, travel dates, and passport information.
3️⃣ Upload the required documents – A digital passport photo and a scanned copy of your passport’s bio page are mandatory.
4️⃣ Pay the visa fees online – Fees vary depending on the type and validity of the visa. Payments are made securely in USD using a debit or credit card.
5️⃣ Receive the e-Visa by email – Once approved, the Indian e-Visa is sent directly to your inbox.
6️⃣ Present the e-Visa upon arrival – Print a copy or keep the digital file on your device to show immigration officers at the airport.
✅ This step-by-step procedure ensures that Canadian citizens can apply efficiently without unnecessary delays.
To apply for an Indian visa from Canada, travelers must meet specific requirements and prepare the necessary documents. The essentials include:
👉 Additional requirements may apply for business or medical visas, such as an invitation letter from an Indian company or a hospital authorization letter.
When planning a trip to India, Canadian citizens must not only apply for a visa but also be aware of the fees and validity rules. Costs vary depending on the type of visa requested (tourist, business, or medical) and its duration. Understanding the pricing system and the number of entries allowed will help Canadian travelers choose the right visa for their stay in India.
The Indian e-Visa fees for Canadian passport holders are determined by the category and length of the visa:
💳 All payments must be made online in USD by credit or debit card. The official platform provides secure payment processing.
⚠️ Note: Fees are non-refundable, even if the visa is denied or travel plans change.
The validity of an Indian visa and the number of entries allowed depend on the chosen category:
🔑 Important: The validity is counted from the date of issuance, not from the date of entry. Canadian citizens should plan accordingly to avoid losing valuable time on their visa.
The processing time for an Indian visa from Canada is generally fast thanks to the e-Visa system. Canadian citizens applying online usually receive their approved visa within a few working days. However, the exact timing can vary depending on the type of visa, the period of application, and the accuracy of the documents provided.
For most Canadian travelers, the average processing time is 3 to 5 business days. This makes the e-Visa the most convenient option, avoiding long delays or consulate visits. Still, it is always recommended to apply well before departure to avoid last-minute stress.
Here are the key points Canadian citizens should know about Indian visa processing times:
Canadian travelers should always apply at least one week before departure. Even if many visas are approved quickly, unexpected delays may occur. Planning ahead ensures peace of mind and a smoother travel experience.
✨ In short, while the Indian e-Visa for Canadians is usually processed in just a few days, submitting the application early is the best way to guarantee timely approval.
Find out if your question has been answered in the list below
Yes, children and infants holding Canadian passports must also obtain a visa to enter India, regardless of their age. Parents or guardians must complete a separate application for each child, including uploading a passport photo and a copy of the child’s passport. There is no exemption for minors, and they cannot be included on a parent’s visa. This rule applies equally to tourist, business, and medical visits, making advance planning essential for families traveling to India.
Canadian travelers holding an e-Visa cannot extend it once they are in India. If they need to stay longer, they must exit the country and apply for a new visa before re-entry. For other visa categories issued by an Indian consulate, extension requests may be possible through the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) in India, but only under specific circumstances such as medical reasons or emergencies. Planning the correct visa duration before traveling is strongly recommended.
If a Canadian application is rejected, the visa fee is non-refundable, and the traveler must correct any errors before reapplying. Rejections usually occur due to incorrect personal details, unclear passport scans, or photos that do not meet specifications. It is recommended to carefully review the requirements before submitting a new application. In some cases, applying for a traditional visa through an Indian consulate may be the alternative solution after an e-Visa refusal.
Yes, Canadian citizens can apply for an Indian e-Visa from almost anywhere in the world, provided they have internet access and a valid Canadian passport. The application does not need to be made from Canada specifically. This is useful for travelers who are already abroad and planning to visit India as their next destination. However, it is essential to apply online at least a few days before departure to allow time for processing and approval.