Canada Visa RequirementsFor India passport holders
Indian passport holders need a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) to visit Canada for tourism, business, or family visits. The Canadian TRV is one of the most applied-for visas by Indians, with processing done entirely online through IRCC.
India passport holders require a visa to enter Canada.
Apply online through the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) portal. The visa fee is CAD 100 (approximately $75-$100 USD). Required documents include a valid passport, recent photos, travel history, proof of ties to India (property, employment, family), bank statements, a letter of invitation (if applicable), and travel itinerary. Biometrics are required for most Indian applicants at a designated Visa Application Centre (VAC). Processing times vary from 2-8 weeks depending on volume.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Biometrics
Required at first application
Current Travel Situation
India to Canada: What You Need to Know
Canada is a popular destination for Indian travelers, whether for tourism, visiting family, or business. Indians are among the largest applicants for Canadian visitor visas. A valid TRV allows stays of up to 6 months per entry. Canada does not offer visa on arrival for Indian nationals.
Practical Tips
Apply well in advance, especially during summer and holiday seasons when processing times are longest. Ensure your passport has at least 6 months validity beyond your intended stay. Strong ties to India, such as property ownership, steady employment, or dependent family members, significantly improve approval chances. Once approved, the visa is typically issued for multiple entries valid for up to 10 years or until your passport expires.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do Indians apply for a Canada visitor visa?
Indian nationals apply online through the IRCC portal at canada.ca. You will need to create an account, complete the application form, upload documents, pay the fee of CAD 100, and submit biometrics at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) in India.
How long can an Indian stay in Canada on a visitor visa?
A Canadian Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) allows Indians to stay for up to 6 months per visit. The border officer makes the final determination on the duration of stay upon entry.
How long does it take to process a Canada visa for Indian applicants?
Processing times typically range from 2 to 8 weeks, though they can be longer during peak periods. IRCC publishes current processing time estimates on their website, so check before applying.
What are the most common reasons for Canada visa rejection for Indians?
Common reasons include insufficient proof of financial means, weak ties to India (suggesting immigration intent), incomplete documentation, inconsistent travel history, or a previous visa refusal. Address each of these clearly in your application to improve approval chances.