Did you know that over 250,000 travelers from Canada visit India each year? With the Government of India’s streamlined process, getting your travel authorization is now faster and simpler than ever.
The official portal, indianvisaonline.gov.in, allows you to complete the entire process in minutes. No embassy visits or third-party agents are needed—just a secure online application.
Be cautious of fraudulent websites. The High Commission of India warns against scams, urging applicants to use only the official portal. Processing takes a minimum of four days, with a 120-day window to apply before your trip.
For Canadian applicants, the fee is USD $80. Need help? Contact the support team at +91-11-24300666 or [email protected].
Indian e-Visa for Canadian Citizens: An Overview
For Canadian passport holders, the digital authorization system offers multiple options for visiting India. This electronic travel permit covers tourism, business meetings, and medical visits. You’ll find five distinct categories tailored to different travel purposes.
The application process doesn’t involve the High Commission in Ottawa. All submissions go through the centralized online portal managed by India’s Bureau of Immigration. This visa general information helps avoid common application mistakes.
Validity periods vary by purpose. Tourist and business permits last one year with multiple entries allowed. Medical visits get 60 days with triple entry privileges. Conference attendees receive 30-day single-entry authorization.
Plan ahead – applications require four business days processing. If your flight departs June 10, submit by June 6 at latest. This general information ensures smooth travel planning.
Your passport must be valid for 190 days beyond your arrival date. Stays exceeding 180 days require registration at local offices. These entry rules help maintain legal status during extended visits.
Types of Indian e-Visas Available from Canada
Exploring India’s digital travel options? Canadian travellers can choose from several specialized authorizations. Each serves a unique purpose, from yoga retreats to critical medical visits. Below, we break down the four main categories.
Tourist Authorization
Ideal for short-term stays, the tourist visa covers holidays, family visits, and even yoga programs under six months. You can enter twice within 60 days, with a total stay of up to 90 days per visit. Note: Volunteering or paid work is strictly prohibited.
Business Travel Permit
The business visa facilitates meetings, sales, or contract signings. However, it doesn’t allow direct employment or long-term projects. Multiple entries are permitted over one year, with each stay capped at 180 days.
Medical and Attendant Permits
For treatments, the medical attendant visa is mandatory for companions—up to two per patient. Both permits allow triple entries within 60 days.
Attendants must provide proof of relationship to the patient.
Conference Authorization
This single-entry permit lasts 30 days and requires an invitation from the event organizer. Pro tip: Combine it with a tourist visa if you plan to explore India afterward.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for an Indian e Visa from Canada
Planning your trip to India? The digital authorization process is straightforward for Canadian applicants. Follow these steps to secure your travel permit without visiting an embassy.
Step 1: Complete the Online Application Form
Visit the official portal, indianvisaonline.gov.in, and select “Apply Online.” Fill in personal details, travel dates, and purpose of visit. Double-check for typos—errors may delay approval.
Step 2: Upload Required Documents
Prepare these files before submitting:
- A recent passport-sized photo (follow VSS_IMAGE.pdf specs)
- Scanned bio page of your passport (valid for 190+ days)
Step 3: Pay the e-Visa Fee
The standard fee is USD $80, plus a 2.5% bank charge. Use credit/debit cards or PayPal. Note: Fees are non-refundable, even if denied.
Step 4: Receive Your e-Visa via Email
Approval typically takes four business days. You’ll get a PDF attachment with your travel authorization. Print a copy and save it on your phone.
Do not book flights until you receive approval. Processing times may vary during peak seasons.
For urgent cases, BLS Centers offer regular visa services with longer processing (30 days). Stick to the online portal for faster results.
Fees, Processing Time, and Important Advisories
Understanding the costs and timelines ensures a smooth journey to India. The standard visa fee is USD $80, plus a 2.5% bank transaction charge. This totals USD $82—non-refundable even if your application is denied.
Type | Fee (USD) | Processing Time |
---|---|---|
e-Visa | $80 + 2.5% | 4 days |
Regular Visa | $100+ | 30 days |
For stays exceeding 180 days, register with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO). This advisory applies to medical or business travelers.
Important: Satellite phones are prohibited under Indian law.
Wireless Telegraphy Act prohibits possession without authorization.
Finalize flights only after approval—processing time may vary during peak seasons. Carry a printed copy of your permit and ensure your passport has two blank pages.
Indian e-Visa vs. Regular Visa: Key Differences
Choosing between digital and traditional travel permits? Compare key features before applying. The table below highlights critical distinctions:
Feature | e-Visa | Regular Visa |
---|---|---|
Processing Time | 4 days | 7+ days |
Validity | 1 year | 5–10 years |
Application | Online portal | BLS Centers |
For traditional permits, BLS International manages submissions on behalf of the High Commission. This includes long-term entry visa options unavailable digitally, like 10-year tourist or employment permits.
Note: Digital authorizations lack flexibility for stays beyond 180 days. If you’re relocating or frequent traveler, a regular business visa may save time and paperwork.
Commission India advises applying early—peak seasons delay processing for both types.
Review visa general information carefully. Digital permits suit last-minute trips, while traditional routes offer stability for repeat visits.
Conclusion
Secure your travel permit effortlessly with India’s digital system. For Canada travelers, the process saves time—no embassy visits needed. Submit documents online and receive approval in four days.
Always use the official portal: indianvisaonline.gov.in. Avoid third-party scams—the Government India warns against unauthorized agents.
Final checklist:
– Passport valid for 190+ days
– Recent photo meeting specs
– Apply at least four days before departure
Questions? Contact services at [email protected]. Start your application today and explore India with confidence!