Due to diplomatic concerns related to anti-Indian incivilities and hate crimes in Canada, India announced the immediate suspension of its physical visa services until further notice at our consulates in Ottawa, Vancouver and Toronto.
Tense geopolitical context between India and Canada
This suspension comes after the Indian government issued a cautionary notice to its nationals living or studying in Canada. Indian authorities are calling for vigilance in the face of anti-Indian acts and hate crimes encouraged by certain political groups. Although the Canadian government vehemently rejects these accusations, claiming that Canada is one of the safest countries in the world, it is clear that diplomatic relations between the two countries are fragile.
Tensions stem mainly from the murder of Indian activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil. It would also appear that several incidents have taken place at events organized by the Sikh community, generating hostile demonstrations against Indian citizens. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs therefore suggests avoiding regions and places where such incidents have been reported.
UPDATE: Notification regarding suspension of visa services for Canadian nationals back on the 'India Visa Application Center Canada' website. https://t.co/8e8CFg7MlX pic.twitter.com/JhWFyXFRMF
- Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) September 21, 2023
There was a rumor on Twitter that the Canadian government was warning its citizens not to travel to India.. It turned out that this conclusion was based on a misinterpretation of the updated health information on the "India" page of the Canadian MFA website.
What does this mean for Indian and Canadian travellers?
- Indian students in Canada: They are particularly concerned by this cautionary advice. Moreover, this situation could create a climate of uncertainty as to whether they will be able to continue their stay in Canada.
- Indian citizens wishing to travel to Canada : According to the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, it is best to postpone all non-essential travel and avoid high-risk areas while the situation remains uncertain.
- Canadian citizens wishing to visit India : If physical visas are no longer issued, it seems that electronic visas are still issued for Canadiansaccording to our information. Nevertheless, the current tension between the two countries could have repercussions on travel and the issuing of these e-Visas, or even the validity of those already issued.
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