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Advisory for Indian Nationals and Indian Students in Canada

September 20, 2023

​In view of growing anti-India activities and politically-condoned hate crimes and criminal violence in Canada, all Indian nationals there and those contemplating travel are urged to exercise utmost caution. Recently, threats have particularly targeted Indian diplomats and sections of the Indian community who oppose the anti-India agenda. Indian nationals are therefore advised to avoid travelling to regions and potential venues in Canada that have seen such incidents. Our High Commission/Consulates General will continue to be in contact with the Canadian authorities to ensure the safety and well being of the Indian community in Canada. Given the deteriorating security environment in Canada, Indian students in particular are advised to exercise extreme caution and remain vigilant. Indian nationals and students from India in Canada must also register with the High Commission of India in Ottawa or Consulates General of India in Toronto and Vancouver through their respective websites, or the MADAD portal madad.gov.in. Registration would enable the High Commission and the Consulates General to better connect with Indian citizens in Canada in the event of any emergency or untoward incident. New Delhi September 20, 2023

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Travel advice and advisories by destination

COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

The Government of Canada’s official source of travel information and advice, the Travel Advice and Advisories help you to make informed decisions and travel safely while you are outside Canada. Check the page for your destination often, because safety and security conditions may change. See Travel Advice and Advisories – FAQ for more information.

Where are you going?

Take normal security precautions

Exercise a high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

Travel advice from other countries

Travel advice is also provided by the governments of Australia , New Zealand , the United Kingdom and the United States .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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Find out if you need a visa to travel to Canada

Most people need a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to travel to Canada - not both. Some people may only need their valid passport. Answer a few questions to see what's right for you.

See all entry requirements by country/territory

You can find the country code on your passport. Be careful when you select your country. Some countries have multiple options and codes are quite similar.

Answer yes if you’re a citizen of Canada and another country.

Look on the front cover of your passport for the symbol of a rectangle with a circle in the middle. If you see this symbol, you have an electronic passport.

Answer: You need a visitor visa

For visits of up to 6 months for most purposes. Cost: CAN $100

Get details about visitor visa Opens in a new tab

Answer: You need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)

For visits of up to 6 months or to transit via a Canadian airport. Cost: CAN $7

Get details about eTA Opens in a new tab

Answer: You need a valid Canadian passport

You need a  valid Canadian passport  to travel to Canada by air (board your flight).

Exception: If you’re an American-Canadian dual citizen with a valid U.S. passport, you don’t need a Canadian passport to fly to Canada. However, you still need to  carry proper identification Opens in a new tab  and meet the basic requirements to enter Canada Opens in a new tab .

Get details about travelling as a dual Canadian citizen Opens in a new tab

Answer: You need a valid passport or travel document to travel to Canada by car, train, bus or boat

If you decide to fly to a Canadian airport instead, you'll need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).

Learn about documents you may need Opens in a new tab

Answer: You need official proof of status in the U.S.

Lawful permanent residents of the U.S. must present these documents for all methods of travel to Canada:

• a valid passport from their country of nationality (or an equivalent acceptable travel document ) and
• a valid green card (or equivalent valid proof of status in the United States)

Answer: You need a transit visa 

To connect between 2 international flights, in less than 48 hours. Cost: Free

Note: If you have more than 48 hours between international flights OR if you decide to visit Canada, you need to apply for a visitor visa.

Get details about transit visa Opens in a new tab

Answer: You can apply for a parent and grandparent super visa to visit for more than 6 months

• The super visa is for visits of 5 years at a time .
• a letter from your child or grandchild with a promise to financially support you for the duration of your visit in Canada.
• More information on approved insurance providers outside of Canada will be available in the coming months.
• be valid for at least 1 year from the date of entry to Canada
• provide at least $100,000 in emergency coverage.
• You must apply for a super visa from outside Canada.
• Cost: CAN $100

Note : If you don't meet the criteria for a super visa, you need to apply for a visitor visa.

Get details about super visa Opens in a new tab

Note : If you don’t meet the criteria for a super visa, you need to apply for an electronic travel authorization (eTA). An eTA allows for visits of up to 6 months.

Note : If you don’t meet the criteria for a super visa, you can visit Canada for up to 6 months with a valid identity document. Bring identification such as a valid passport. Or, if a member of an official program such as Nexus, you may present your valid membership card.

If you don’t meet the criteria for a super visa, you can visit Canada for up to 6 months with

• a valid passport from your country of nationality (or an equivalent acceptable travel document Opens in a new tab ) and
• official proof of lawful permanent resident status in the U.S., such as a green card

Answer: You need a valid identity document

Bring identification such as a valid passport. Or, if a member of an official program such as Nexus, you may present your valid membership card.

Learn about the documents you may need Opens in a new tab

Answer: If we approve your study permit application, we’ll issue a visitor visa

• You don’t need to submit a separate application for a visitor visa.

When you travel to Canada, bring your

• letter of introduction that says your study permit application is approved, if you received one
• valid passport that has your visitor visa stuck to one of its pages

Learn about studying in Canada Opens in a new tab

Answer: You should already have a valid visitor visa

We automatically issued a  visitor visa to you when we approved your first study or work permit.

If you leave and return to Canada,  you must travel with:

• your valid study or work permit
• If you don’t have a valid visa when you check-in for a flight, it may result in travel delays (or a missed flight).
• your valid passport

Exception : If you return directly from a visit only to the United States or St. Pierre and Miquelon, you don’t need a valid visitor visa if your study or work permit is still valid.

If your visa has expired or was only valid for a single entry to Canada

You need to  apply for a new visa Opens in a new tab .

• A visa costs CAN$100.
• It’s valid for up to 10 years.

If your study or work permit will expire soon, you must extend it before you can apply for a new visitor visa.

You need a visitor visa to leave and return to Canada.  Apply for your visa before you leave.

You can apply for a visitor visa from inside Canada if you meet all the conditions below:

• you’re already in Canada
• you hold a valid study or work permit
• you want to  leave and return to Canada  in the near future
• your existing  visitor visa Opens in a new tab  is expired or was valid for only one entry

Exception : If you return  directly  from a visit only to the United States or St. Pierre and Miquelon, you don’t need a valid visitor visa if your study or work permit is still valid.

Processing times vary by country.  You may need to  give fingerprints and photo (biometrics) Opens in a new tab  with your application. Processing times  don’t include  the time you need to give biometrics.

Apply for a visitor visa Opens in a new tab

You need a  visitor visa  to travel to Canada.

A visitor visa:

• is a sticker we put in your passport
• costs CAN$100

Processing times vary by country.  You may need to  give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics) Opens in a new tab  with your application. Processing time  doesn’t include  the time you need to give biometrics.

Answer: Before you continue, find out if you need a study permit

You’ll need to answer some questions on another page to find out.

If you’re eligible to study without a study permit, you’ll need to come back to this page to find out what you need to travel to Canada.

Find out if you need a study permit Opens in a new tab

Answer: If we approve your work permit application, we’ll issue a visitor visa for you

• letter of introduction that says your work permit application is approved, if you received one

Learn about working in Canada Opens in a new tab

We automatically issued a  visitor visa to you when we approved your first work permit.

Processing times vary by country.  You may need to  give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics)  with your application. Processing time  doesn’t include  the time you need to give biometrics.

Apply for a visitor visa

Answer: Before you continue, find out if you need a work permit

If you’re eligible to work without a work permit, you’ll need to come back to this page to find out what you need to travel to Canada.

Find out if you need a work permit Opens in a new tab

Answer: If we approve your study permit application, we’ll issue an electronic travel authorization (eTA)

• You don’t need to submit a separate application for an eTA.

If you get a new passport before you come to Canada, you’ll need to apply for a new eTA if you plan to fly to a Canadian airport.

Answer: You need an eTA to leave and return to Canada

Your study permit lets you study in Canada. If you plan to leave and return to Canada, you need to make sure you have what you need to re-enter the country.

What you need depends on your travel plans.

If you re-enter by a Canadian airport (fly back to Canada)

You must have:

• the passport that’s linked to a valid eTA and
• your valid study permit
• costs CAN $7
• is electronically linked to your passport

If you received your current study permit on or after August 1, 2015, you may have a valid eTA.

If you don’t have an eTA or yours has expired, you’ll need to apply for a new eTA.

Apply for an eTA Opens in a new tab

If you re-enter Canada by car, boat, bus or train

• a valid passport and

Answer: If you fly to a Canadian airport, you need an eTA

• costs CAN$7

Most applicants get their eTA approval (via an email) within minutes. However, some requests  can take several days  to process if you’re asked to submit supporting documents.

If you drive or arrive by train, bus or boat

You just need a  valid passport or travel document Opens in a new tab  to get to Canada by car, train, bus or boat.

Answer: If we approve your work permit application, we’ll issue an electronic travel authorization (eTA) for you

• valid passport that you used to apply for your work permit

If you get a new passport before you come to Canada, you’ll need to apply for a new eTA if you plan to fly to a Canadian airport.

Your work permit lets you work in Canada. If you plan to leave and return to Canada, you need to make sure you have what you need to re-enter the country.

• your valid work permit

If you received your current work permit on or after August 1, 2015, you may have a valid eTA.

• your valid work or study permit

Answer: You don’t need to apply for a visitor visa or eTA

• valid passport or travel document that you used to apply for your work or study permit

When you travel to Canada, you must bring your:

• letter of introduction that says your study permit application is approved

Answer: You don’t need an eTA or a visitor visa

If you’re driving or arriving by train, bus, or boat.

You just need to  bring the right travel documents Opens in a new tab .

If you fly to or transit through a Canadian airport

You just need to travel with your valid U.S. passport if you fly or transit through a Canadian airport.

• valid passport or travel document that you used to apply for your work permit
• valid work or study permit

Answer: Your permit is not an eTA or a visa

When you extend your study permit, you’ll also be issued an eTA if you don’t already have one. When you fly to a Canadian, you must have:

• the passport that’s linked to your valid eTA  and
• a valid visitor and

Apply for visitor visa Opens in a new tab

When you extend your work permit, you’ll also be issued an eTA if you don’t already have one. When you fly to a Canadian, you must have:

• a valid visitor visa and

Answer: You’re eligible to apply for an eTA

You can apply for an  eTA  if you travel to Canada  by air only .

• is only valid when flying to or transiting through a Canadian airport

Most applicants get their eTA approval within minutes (via email). However, some requests  can take several days  to process if you’re asked to submit supporting documents.

If you already have a  valid Canadian visitor visa  you don’t need to apply for an eTA. You can travel with your visa until it expires.

If your travel plans change

You need a  visitor visa  (not an eTA) if you decide to  get to Canada by car, train, bus or boat  instead.

Answer: You don’t need to apply for a visitor visa or eTA

• valid passport or travel document that you used to apply for your study permit and
• official proof of U.S. lawful permanent resident status

Answer: You need valid proof of lawful permanent resident status of the U.S. to leave and return to Canada

• valid study permit,
• valid passport or travel document that you used to apply for your study permit, and

Answer: You don’t need an eTA or a visitor visa

• valid passport or travel document and

You’ll need to answer some questions on another page to find out.

If you’re eligible to study without a study permit, you’ll need to come back to this page to find out what you need to travel to Canada.

• valid passport or travel document that you used to apply for your work permit and
• valid work permit
• valid work permit,

If you’re eligible to work without a work permit, you’ll need to come back to this page to find out what you need to travel to Canada.

Answer: You’re eligible to apply for an eTA

If you already have a  valid Canadian visitor visa , you don’t need to apply for an eTA. You can travel with your visa until it expires.

If you transit through Canada to or from the United States

You  may  be able to  transit through Canada without a visa or eTA if you meet certain eligibility requirements.

You need an official proof of status as a lawful permanent resident of the U.S., such as one of the following:

• valid permanent resident card (Form I-551)
• foreign passport with an unexpired temporary I-551 stamp (also known as an Alien Documentation, Identification and Telecommunication [ADIT] stamp)
• foreign passport with a temporary I-551 printed notation (“Upon endorsement serves as temporary I-551 evidencing permanent residence for 1 year”) on a machine-readable immigrant visa upon endorsement with a U.S. Customs and Border Protection admission stamp
• expired permanent resident card (Form I-551) with Form I-797 (Notice of Action) for pending Form I-751 (Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence) or Form I-829 (Petition by Investor to Remove Conditions on Permanent Resident Status)
• expired permanent resident card (Form I-551) with Form I-797 (Notice of Action) for pending Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card [Green Card])
• valid re-entry permit (Form I-327)
• Form I-94 with an unexpired temporary I-551 stamp (ADIT stamp) and a passport-style photo

Important note:

This tool provides information only. It was created to assist you as you decide what travel document you may need to travel to Canada. This tool may not provide information on all travel documents or your particular situation. If you choose to apply, we will assess your application in accordance with the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and its related Regulations. Read our complete terms and conditions (opens in a new tab) .

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India Reopening to Canadian Travellers: What You Need to Know

Information may change on a day-by-day basis. While we make every effort to keep the information here updated, the responsibility to keep abreast of ever-changing travel restrictions is ultimately your own.

India will open their borders to quarantine-free non-essential travel as of February 14, 2022.

As a country that was hit particularly hard by COVID-19 (especially the Delta variant throughout 2021), it’s hopeful to hear that India has managed to recover and has deemed the situation stable enough to welcome foreigners.

We’ve seen many countries in the South & South East Asia region gradually reopen since late 2021, including Singapore’s Vaccinated Travel Lane scheme ,  Thailand restarting their quarantine-free entry , and the Philippines only recently .

India had actually opened their borders to tourists to November 15, 2021, but only for those on charter flights. Then, when the Omicron variant began ravaging the globe, a seven-day quarantine was put in place almost immediately.

Now that cases are once again dropping worldwide, India is dropping all test and quarantine requirements for vaccinated travellers from most major countries.

India Travel Restrictions

India’s travel restrictions are straightforward, with a list of 82 countries whose residents are permitted to enter quarantine-free, including Canada.

India is also continuing to process tourist visas at this time. Those with a tourist visa issued prior to October 2021 will have to reapply, as those are no longer valid.

How Can Canadians Enter India?

Travellers are allowed to enter India through all international airports. As of October 2021, when departing Canada by air, travellers are required to present proof of vaccination .

Travellers coming from Canada must fulfill one of the following conditions before entering India:

• India accepts all WHO-approved vaccines.
• Your Canadian COVID-19 proof of vaccination will suffice.
• Children under 12 are exempt.
• Show a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR test result taken within 72 hours of departure.

Everyone arriving in India also has to submit a self-declaration form online before departure, and around 2% of arrivals will be randomly tested at their own expense.

Testing & Quarantine Upon Return

India used to be a bit of unique case in this scenario – until January 28, 2022, Canada only accepted test results from a single lab in New Delhi. As you can imagine, this created a huge headache, as travellers would have to trek out to a single lab in the seventh-largest country in the world within 72 hours of their direct flight to Canada. 

The good news is that Canada has removed that strict requirement and now accepts tests from any lab recognized by the Indian Council of Medical Research .

Even better, as of April 1, 2022, a negative test is no longer required prior to travelling back to Canada.

If you do need to find a test in India, it’s best to look for a lab from the Indian Council of Medical Research list above, and tests appear to cost in the range of 500–1,200 INR  ($8–20). 

Alternatively, consider purchasing a Switch Health RT-LAMP or antigen test kit for an easy remote testing option via telehealth video link.

Current Health Requirements in India

COVID-19 restrictions in India differ between states and even cities, as each jurisdiction is allowed to set their own rules and limitations.

In Delhi, there is currently a curfew from 11pm to 5am. However, gyms and spas are open, and restaurants are allowed to open for indoor dining with a 50% capacity limit. 

In Mumbai, all national parks, safaris, and tourist restrictions are open. Spas have a 50% capacity limitation, and the night curfew has been lifted completely.

Throughout the country, masks are universally required to be worn in all public spaces, including urban areas, indoors, and on public transportation.

Since each state in India can impose their own restrictions, travelling between states can have its own ramifications. For example, those flying into West Bengal must carry PCR tests conducted a maximum of 72 hours before arrival.

If you are planning to travel around the country, it’s important to stay on top of the rules for domestic travel, as they can change at any time.

How to Get to India

Air Canada operates non-stop flights from Toronto to both Mumbai and New Delhi, as well as from Vancouver and Montreal to New Delhi.

Cash fares in economy class to Mumbai are in the region of $1,500 (CAD), while fares to New Delhi are significantly higher from all Canadian departure points.

For most Canadians, Aeroplan is the first loyalty program that comes to mind for international long-haul premium class bookings.

A direct flight to India will cost 85,000 points one-way per person in business class. Air Canada can be priced higher dynamically, while Air India will always fall under the partner fixed pricing.

Using the “Latitude Attitude” to instantly apply eUpgrades for an upgrade into business class is the ideal way to fly to India at reasonable prices.

If you’d like to fly transpacific or through the Middle East on Etihad Airways, you’ll pay 100,000 Aeroplan points one-way in business class and 130,000 Aeroplan points in First Class.

Meanwhile, using Alaska miles , you can book on Japan Airlines for 60,000 miles in business class or 70,000 miles in First Class. 

Lastly, with American Airlines AAdvantage , you can fly Qatar Airways Qsuites from North America to India via Doha for only 75,000 American miles.  

The same booking can also be achieved with 85,000 Alaska miles if you’ve collected more Alaska miles than American.

On February 14, 2022, India will open their borders to some 82 countries, including Canada. Be sure to apply for a tourist visa prior to flying.

In order to enter India, you only need to present proof of vaccination with a WHO-approved vaccine. Chances are low you’ll be selected for testing upon arrival, although it is always a possibility.

India itself has so much to explore, from seeing the Taj Mahal to wandering off the beaten path with a boat cruise in Goa. Of course, you can also take a longer trip through the South Asia region, as many countries are now reopening their borders with the Omicron variant subsiding. 

As always, you can refer to our Travel During COVID-19 Resource for Canadians for the most up-to-date information on travelling in the pandemic era.

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Travelling to Canada

Is it safe for Indians to travel to Canada?

India has urged its citizens not to travel to Canada. Is Canada safe?

By Hugo O'Doherty

Posted on September 20, 2023

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This article was updated more than 6 months ago. Some information may be outdated.

India has urged its nationals not to visit Canada, extending a diplomatic crisis during which Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged that the Government of India was involved in the killing of a Sikh leader in British Columbia.

New Delhi rejected this claim outright, labeling it “absurd” and “unsubstantiated.”

The Indo-Canada diplomatic spat and strongly-worded advisory may lead some Indian citizens to ask: is Canada a safe country to visit or move to?

Why is India urging citizens not to travel to Canada?

On September 18, Canada’s Prime Minister stated to Parliament in a rare statement on a matter of national security that Ottawa had credible intelligence “agents of the government of India” carried out the fatal shooting in June of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a 45-year-old Canadian citizen and Sikh leader, and president of the Guru Nanak Gurdwara in Surrey, B.C.

Mr. Nijjar was an outspoken advocate of Sikh separatism. He was involved in pushing an unofficial referendum among Sikh diaspora to press for an independent Khalistan.

The diplomatic fall-out of Mr. Nijjar’s murder affected the recent G20 summit in India, and now potentially extends to Indian citizens planning a visit or move to Canada, as well as those already in Canada.

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What does the advisory actually say?

New Delhi’s advisory warns Indian citizens considering travel to Canada of “growing anti-India activities and politically condoned hate crimes and criminal violence.” In particular, it urges students to “exercise extreme caution.”

Indians make up around 40 percent of all international students in Canada, making India by some distance the largest source country for students.

India is also by far the top source nationality for economic migrants settling in Canada through the Express Entry system.

Advisory for Indian Nationals and Indian Students in Canada: https://t.co/zboZDH83iw pic.twitter.com/7YjzKbZBIK — Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) September 20, 2023

It’s important to note that there is no new restriction on Indians traveling to Canada. The advisory does not restrict Indians’ ability to travel to Canada, above and beyond any normal restrictions in place such as the need to secure a visa for travel. The advisory is exactly that — advisory — and is not a new law or restriction of any kind. Travelers may exercise their own discretion when choosing whether or not to travel to Canada.

Is Canada a safe country for Indians?

Canada remains safe for people from around the world, including Indian citizens. A recent report published by U.S. News & World Report ranks Canada as the third safest country in the world, behind only Switzerland and Sweden.

The report focuses on five factors: crime rate, worker health and safety, housing, health and emergency services, and general perceptions of personal safety.

While it is impossible to predict exactly how the current diplomatic crisis may unfold and affect Indians in Canada and those planning a visit or move, at this time there is little to no evidence of Canada being particularly unsafe for Indians.

If you’re interested in moving to Canada but not sure which program you may be eligible for, check your eligibility for more than 20 different Canadian immigration programs by taking Moving2Canada’s free Canada Immigration Quiz .

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How can Indians travel to Canada despite the flight ban?

Times of India TIMESOFINDIA.COM / TRAVEL NEWS , CANADA / Created : Aug 12, 2021, 22:00 IST

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Canada has now extended a ban on arriving passenger flights directly from India till September 21. This move comes in the wake of rising cases of COVID, and the risks posed by the pandemic. This has happened for the fifth time in … Read more

Canada has now extended a ban on arriving passenger flights directly from India till September 21. This move comes in the wake of rising cases of COVID, and the risks posed by the pandemic. This has happened for the fifth time in a row, since Canada banned all direct flights to and from India in April when the second COVID-19 wave hit the country. Since then, the date for reopening the borders for Indian travellers has been postponed several times. Read less

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Canada has now extended a ban on arriving passenger flights directly from India till September 21. This move comes in the wake of rising cases of COVID, and the risks posed by the pandemic. This has h...

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Travelling to Canada from India: Frequently Asked Questions

Last updated: March 28, 2022

Ongoing travel restrictions due to COVID-19 and flight suspensions from India to Canada forced many newcomers to put their plans of moving to Canada or visiting family on hold. With the India-Canada flight ban finally being lifted, here’s all the information you need to plan your travel from India to Canada.

In this article:

When is the Canada-India direct flight suspension being lifted?

Who can travel from india to canada at this time, what are the requirements for entering canada while travelling directly from india.

• How do I book a COVID-19 test at Delhi airport?

Do I need a pre-arrival COVID-19 test if I have previously recovered from COVID-19?

Do i need to be fully vaccinated against covid-19 to enter canada, will i have to quarantine after arriving in canada from india, can i travel from india to canada indirectly via a third country, what are the requirements for passengers travelling from india to canada via a third country, can i travel to canada if my copr has expired.

After a five-month suspension, Transport Canada  allowed direct flights between India and Canada to resume on September 27, 2021.

You can travel from India to Canada if you meet any of the following criteria:

• If you’re a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident (PR) of Canada, a person registered under the Indian Act of Canada , or a protected person (refugee status)
• If you possess a valid Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR), or valid work permit (and proof of approval) and job offer
• If you have a valid study permit, and have been accepted into an approved Designated Learning Institution (DLI),
• If you’re a foreign national and are travelling for essential or discretionary purposes. The requirement of being fully-vaccinated has now been eased.
• If you are reuniting with immediate family members who are Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or temporary foreign workers.

Passengers travelling on a direct flight from India to Canada will need to meet the following requirements if they are not fully vaccinated with a vaccine that’s approved in Canada:

• Obtain a pre-departure negative COVID-19 molecular test, also known as an RT-PCR test, from Genestrings Laboratory at the Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi. This COVID-19 test must be performed within 72 hours before your scheduled departure. Effective February 28, 2022, results from rapid antigen tests performed within 24 hours before your scheduled departure will also be accepted, provided they are performed by a healthcare practitioner or at a healthcare facility.
• You’ll need to present the negative COVID-19 test report to the airline staff before boarding your flight.
• Travellers will need to update their information, including vaccination details, quarantine plan , etc. on the ArriveCAN app.
• All passengers will be required to wear face masks throughout their flight and at airports.

Airlines will refuse to allow travellers who don’t meet these requirements to board the aircraft. Exceptions exist for travellers who’ve previously tested positive and have recovered from COVID-19.

How do I book a COVID-19 molecular test at Delhi airport?

You can book a COVID-19 molecular test at the Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi, online. You will be required to provide some basic personal information, proof of identity, and details about your flight. You will need to select “RT-PCR” test and book a suitable slot. A fee of INR 500 (approximately $8.50 CAD) will be applicable for each test. You will receive the COVID-19 test result within 8 to 10 hours, and the result delivery will be prioritized based on your departure time.

You can also opt for a faster COVID-19 molecular test, which costs INR 4,900 (approximately $82 CAD) and gives you a result within 60 to 90 minutes.

Effective October 2022, travellers entering Canada no longer need to take a pre-arrival test, regardless of vaccination status or prior recovery from COVID-19.

As of October 2022, travellers who are not fully vaccinated with a COVID-19 vaccine approved in Canada can enter the country. Previously, foreign nationals who weren’t fully vaccinated were only allowed to enter Canada under specific circumstances, such as if they were:

• A Canadian citizen
• A permanent resident, or have received a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR)
• An authorized temporary foreign worker with a valid work permit and job offer (unless you’re in a profession where a work permit is not required) .

At present, travellers who are not fully vaccinated with a vaccine approved in Canada can even enter Canada for discretionary or optional purposes.

What to do if the vaccine I’ve received is not approved in Canada?

As of October 2022, even if you’ve received a vaccine that is not approved in Canada, you will be allowed to enter Canada.

Travellers coming into Canada are no longer required to quarantine, regardless of their vaccination status. In addition, both the pre-arrival and on-arrival testing requirements have been removed, so you will not be tested for COVID-19 when you reach Canada. However, in the interest of public health, you should still avoid travelling to Canada if you’re infected with, or suspect that you have, COVID-19.

You can choose to fly from India to Canada directly or via an indirect route. However, if you’re entering Canada via a third country, be sure to check the COVID-19 vaccination and testing requirements that apply to your layover destination.

While planning an itinerary that involves an indirect route of travel to Canada, keep the following in mind:

• Some countries may have restrictions on the entry or transit of passengers arriving from India.
• You may require a COVID-19 test or proof of vaccination to enter or transit through your layover destination, even if these requirements no longer apply to entering Canada.
• You may require a transit or travel visa for the third country. Be sure to check the visa requirements of your stop-over destination before making any flight bookings.
• In case you test positive during transit, you may have to abide by quarantine regulations imposed by the third country.

Due to ongoing COVID-19 travel restrictions, many people have been unable to travel. If your Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR) has expired while waiting for the travel restrictions and flight ban to be lifted, you will not be permitted to enter Canada on expired travel documents.

The IRCC is no longer reissuing CoPRs to individuals who were unable to travel during the quarantine. If your CoPR has expired, you will need to reapply for permanent residence and meet the current eligibility criteria.

Whether you’re an Indian newcomer looking forward to starting a new life in Canada as a permanent resident or an international student or foreign worker with plans of working in Canada, now that the pandemic is easing, you can plan your move to Canada. Be sure to check the Government of Canada travel website for up-to-date information on COVID-19 related travel restrictions.

Things our lawyers want you to know

This article offers general information only and is not intended as legal, financial or other professional advice. A professional advisor should be consulted regarding your specific situation. While information presented is believed to be factual and current, its accuracy is not guaranteed and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. All expressions of opinion reflect the judgment of the author(s) as of the date of publication and are subject to change. No endorsement of any third parties or their advice, opinions, information, products or services is expressly given or implied by Royal Bank of Canada or its affiliates.

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Arrive is operated by Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), the largest bank in Canada* and one of the most reputed banks in the world, employing 80,000 people worldwide. In collaboration with RBC, Arrive is dedicated to helping newcomers achieve their life, career, and financial goals in Canada.

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Disclaimer: This article offers general information only and is not intended as legal, financial or other professional advice. A professional advisor should be consulted regarding your specific situation. While information presented is believed to be factual and current, its accuracy is not guaranteed and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. All expressions of opinion reflect the judgment of the author(s) as of the date of publication and are subject to change. No endorsement of any third parties or their advice, opinions, information, products or services is expressly given or implied by Royal Bank of Canada or its affiliates.

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Indian man, 24, disguised as grey-haired senior caught boarding Air Canada flight

A 24-year-old Indian man was recently arrested for impersonating a senior citizen and using false documents to travel to Canada, says India’s federal police organization.

On X, formerly Twitter, the  Central Industrial Security Force  (CSIF) shared details of the bust. “Vigilant CISF personnel intercepted a passenger bound for Canada involved in human trafficking & impersonation,”  reads the  post shared on June 19. “The pax attempted to travel by impersonating an aged person and using false documents.”

The man was apprehended at Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi as he attempted to board an Air Canada flight,  according to NOW Toronto . He presented a passport to the authorities under the identity of a 67-year-old man named Rashvindar Singh Sahota.

“The man’s appearance, voice, and skin texture seemed significantly younger than the details provided in the passport,” a senior CISF officer is reported as saying by  The Economic Times . “Closer observation revealed that he had dyed his hair and beard white and was wearing glasses to appear older.”

Upon further questioning, the man disclosed his real identity and reportedly showed a digital copy of his authentic passport on his phone that identified him as Guru Sewak Singh, reports  The Times of India .

The passenger was then handed over to Delhi Police pending legal action that according to the Indian Penal Code can range from fine to imprisonment.

Our website is the place for the latest breaking news, exclusive scoops, longreads and provocative commentary. Please bookmark nationalpost.com and sign up for our daily newsletter, Posted, here .

Travel Freedom: Indians Abroad

• Last updated Jun 25, 2024
• Difficulty Beginner

• Category Travel

As of June 2024, Indians are banned from travelling to most parts of the world, including the US, Canada, Europe, and most of Asia. These travel directives were issued in April 2021 due to the deadly second wave of COVID-19 in India and the spread of the Delta variant. However, there are some countries that Indian citizens can visit without a visa, including the British Virgin Islands, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Bhutan, Dominica, Grenada, Haiti, Hong Kong, the Maldives, Mauritius, Nepal, Niue, Samoa, Senegal, Trinidad and Tobago, and Montserrat.

What You'll Learn

Visa-free countries for indian citizens, countries with easy entry requirements, travel restrictions due to covid-19, countries that require visas for indian citizens, the impact of travel bans on india's economy.

Indian citizens can travel to a number of countries without a visa, although the exact number varies depending on the source. According to the Henley Passport Index, as of 2024, Indian citizens can enter 62 countries and territories visa-free or with a visa on arrival, ranking the Indian passport 81st in the world. However, another source states that as of June 2024, Indian passport holders can travel visa-free to 37 countries.

• British Virgin Islands
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• Trinidad and Tobago

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For Indian citizens, obtaining a visa can be a tedious and time-consuming process. However, there are several countries that offer easy entry requirements, making it more convenient for Indians to travel abroad. Here are some countries with relatively simple entry requirements:

• Nepal and Bhutan: These neighbouring countries do not require a passport for entry, making them easily accessible destinations for Indian citizens. Nepal, with its mountain climbing spots and bustling cities, and Bhutan, with its vibrant festivals and iconic monasteries, offer unique cultural experiences.
• Sri Lanka: Known as the "Pearl of the Indian Ocean," Sri Lanka offers diverse landscapes, from sun-kissed beaches to lush green highlands. Indian passport holders can now avail of a free visa on arrival in Sri Lanka, making it an attractive option for Indian travellers.
• Brazil: Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro has announced that Indian tourists and business people will no longer need a visa to visit the country. This move opens up exciting opportunities for Indians to explore South America.
• United Arab Emirates (UAE): The UAE has introduced visa-free travel for accompanied dependents below 18 years between July 15 and September 15 each year. This initiative promotes family travel and makes the Emirates more accessible to Indian families.
• Zimbabwe: Indian passport holders can now obtain a visa on arrival in Zimbabwe, which is known for its dramatic landscapes, ancient ruins, and diverse wildlife. This southern African country offers a unique blend of natural and cultural attractions.
• United Kingdom (UK): The UK offers various visa pathways, such as the Global Talent Visa and Skilled Worker Visa, making it easier for skilled Indian professionals to enter the country. The UK's robust economy and infrastructure provide ample opportunities for career advancement.
• New Zealand: With streamlined visa processes and minimal prerequisites, New Zealand is a desirable choice for Indian professionals seeking career growth and a high quality of life. Its stunning natural landscapes and modern amenities create an inviting atmosphere.
• Singapore: Known for its easy work visa process, Singapore welcomes Indian professionals in various industries. As a global financial hub, it offers abundant job opportunities and a dynamic environment for career growth.
• Australia: Australia offers favourable work visa options and citizenship rights, making it appealing to Indian professionals seeking international career growth. The country's robust economy and diverse job market provide ample opportunities for skilled workers.
• E-Visa Countries: Several countries offer e-visa facilities for Indian citizens, including Singapore, Vietnam, Turkey, Cambodia, Dubai, Oman, Malaysia, Laos, Georgia, Armenia, and Thailand. E-visas streamline the application process, reduce paperwork, and offer faster processing times, making international travel more accessible for Indians.

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The US, Canada, the UK, Europe, and most countries in Asia have shut their doors to travellers from India. The UK has moved India from the "red list" to the "amber list", meaning that even fully vaccinated travellers will need to quarantine at the place of their stay for 10 days. This is because, while the UK recognises the AstraZeneca vaccine, it has not approved Covishield, the Indian version of the vaccine. Dubai has also eased travel restrictions for Indians, with Emirates Airlines resuming flights from June 23, but only for Indian travellers with residency visas who are fully vaccinated with one of the approved vaccines, which includes Covishield.

Some countries have made exceptions for travellers vaccinated with Covishield, with 16 EU countries, including Germany and France, allowing Indian travellers entry if they are fully vaccinated with Covishield. However, this clearance does not extend to all EU countries, and each country has its own set of rules and restrictions.

A handful of nations are allowing Indian travellers with a negative RT-PCR test and the completion of the requisite quarantine period. Mauritius is one such example, with the country announcing that starting July 15, travellers can fly in and roam freely if they test negative after 14 days.

While COVID-19 cases in India have declined, and vaccination rates have increased, the impact of the second wave has led to ongoing travel restrictions and complications for Indians wishing to travel abroad.

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As of 2024, Indian citizens can travel to 62 countries and territories without a visa, or with a visa on arrival. This includes countries such as Kenya, Iran, Thailand, Malaysia, and Sri Lanka. However, there are still many countries that require Indian citizens to obtain a visa before travelling. Here is a list of some of the countries that require visas for Indian citizens:

• United States
• United Kingdom
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• United Arab Emirates
• Most countries in Europe, including France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the Schengen Area countries
• Caribbean Netherlands
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Central African Republic
• Republic of the Congo
• Northern Mariana Islands
• Turks and Caicos Islands

It is important to note that visa requirements can change frequently, so it is always a good idea to check the latest information on government websites before planning international travel. Additionally, even for countries that offer visa-free entry or visa on arrival, there may be specific requirements that need to be met, such as having a valid passport, proof of sufficient funds, and travel health insurance.

Exploring the Guidelines: Can H-1B Visa Holders Travel Outside the US?

Travel bans have had a significant impact on India's economy, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2021, during India's harsh second wave of the virus, many countries imposed travel restrictions on Indians, including the US, Canada, Europe, and most countries in Asia. These bans were put in place despite a downward trend in COVID-19 cases in India and had negative consequences for the country's economy.

The author Chetan Bhagat argues that these bans were "draconian, unfair, and potentially racist" and caused "hardship" for Indians, damaging India's "global image" and "FDI situation". Indeed, the restrictions not only hindered Indians' ability to travel abroad but also impacted the country's tourism industry, as foreign travellers were deterred from visiting India due to the travel bans. This likely resulted in significant losses for the Indian tourism sector, which relies heavily on international visitors.

Moreover, the travel bans disrupted business and investment activities, hindering India's ability to attract foreign direct investment (FDI). FDI plays a crucial role in India's economy, contributing to economic growth, employment generation, and technological advancement. The restrictions also affected Indians working or studying abroad, as well as those with family or business commitments overseas.

The impact of the travel bans on India's economy extended beyond the immediate effects on tourism and investment. India's aviation industry, for instance, suffered significant losses due to reduced passenger traffic. Indian airlines faced financial challenges as they were unable to operate at full capacity, and the lack of international travel options also impacted the country's business and hospitality sectors.

In conclusion, the travel bans had far-reaching consequences for India's economy, affecting various sectors and disrupting the country's global connections. While the primary goal of the restrictions was to curb the spread of COVID-19, their impact on India's economy underscores the intricate link between public health, social dynamics, and economic stability. As the world continues to navigate the complexities of the pandemic, finding a balance between effective health measures and economic sustainability remains a critical challenge.

Adding a Trusted Travel Number to an Existing Reservation

Frequently asked questions.

Yes, Indians can travel abroad to some countries. However, many countries imposed travel bans and restrictions on Indian travellers during the second wave of COVID-19 in April 2021.

There are several countries that Indian citizens can enter without a visa, including:

- Hong Kong

- Mauritius

- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

- Trinidad and Tobago

- Montserrat

Indians can apply for a visa to travel to countries in the Middle East, South America, Africa, Oceania, and the Caribbean.

The requirements for international travel from India vary depending on the destination country. However, common requirements include a valid passport, passport-size photographs, a return flight ticket, confirmed accommodation, a bank statement, and a negative COVID-19 test. Some countries may also require proof of vaccination.

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Canada's claims of Indian interference are politically motivated, envoy says

Indian high commissioner says report offers no evidence, was influenced by sikh separatists.

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India has said a report by Canadian legislators alleging interference by New Delhi is politically motivated and influenced by Sikh separatist campaigners.

Already chilly bilateral ties cooled further last month when a group of parliamentarians, citing intelligence, alleged in a report that some elected Canadian officials had been "witting or semi-witting" participants in foreign interference operations.

India and China were the main foreign threats to Canada's democratic institutions, the report said.

Sanjay Kumar Verma, India's envoy to Canada, said the report was biased, did not give a fair hearing to India and did not give India an opportunity to cross-examine witnesses.

"It has been influenced by anti-India elements ... you need to come out with infallible evidence. I don't see any hint of that," he told Reuters.

"This is all politically motivated ... If Canadian institutions are bent upon harm(ing) bilateral relations with India, that will happen."

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His remarks were India's first formal response to the report, which triggered demands by opposition legislators for the government to name those under suspicion.

New Delhi accuses Canada of harbouring Sikh separatists who seek to create a homeland in India known as Khalistan.

Last year, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau cited what he called credible allegations of Indian government involvement in the murder of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who was gunned down in British Columbia in June 2023.

"There is a lot of political space given to Khalistani terrorists in Canada and therefore I would expect them to have influenced the entire process through their representatives," Verma said.

'Work ongoing' in Canada-India relationship, Trudeau says

When asked about Verma's criticism, the special committee of legislators behind the report said the "committee speaks to and through its reports" and noted it had spoken to the country's two intelligence agencies, the RCMP and the public safety ministry, and had studied 4,000 documents.

The offices of Prime Minister Trudeau and Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly referred queries to the public safety ministry, which said it would allow the committee to speak to the report.

The World Sikh Organization of Canada, an Ottawa-based Sikh advocacy group, called Verma's remarks "baseless and unprofessional" and said the committee operated with complete independence.

Canada is pressing India to cooperate with the investigation into the murder of Nijjar.

• Trudeau, Modi meet for first time since Canada publicly accused India of Sikh leader's assassination
• Trudeau says co-operation coming with Modi, but short on specifics
• Trudeau says he sees an 'opportunity' to engage with Modi's government after India's election

Verma said Canada had yet not shared any evidence with India. Media reports suggested that Canadian intelligence agency officials visited India twice this year.

Last month, Canadian police arrested and charged four Indian men on suspicion of Nijjar's murder.

The killing prompted Canada to pause talks on a proposed trade treaty with India. The two nations had been talking off and on since 2010 about a comprehensive economic partnership agreement.

"If Canada decides to (ask) us to resume talks ... we will take a call," Verma said.

Even as diplomatic relations deteriorate, bilateral trade in goods and services surpassed $25 billion last year, Verma said, adding it would grow this year.

Reporting by Promit Mukherjee, editing by David Ljunggren and Alison Williams

Indian interference claims by Canada politically motivated, says envoy

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• Indian ambassador says report offers no evidence
• Says report influenced by Sikh separatists
• Report committee defends the work

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How to apply

Additional changes to entry, testing and quarantine requirements in response to the Omicron variant

There are temporary changes for all travellers, including Canadian citizens, regardless of their vaccination status.

Additional restrictions and requirements now apply to these countries:

• Botswana, Egypt, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, South Africa, Zimbabwe

News release

Changes to border measures

New border measures include

• rules for re-entering Canada, if leaving for 72 hours or less
• who is considered fully vaccinated
• rules for travelling within Canada

Starting January 15, 2022, there will be new rules for who can enter Canada as an unvaccinated or partially vaccinated traveller.

Learn more about the new measures

Venezuelan passport holders

You may need to complete extra steps when you fill out your application .

If the printed expiry date on your Venezuelan passport has passed

If the printed expiry date has passed and you’re applying for a visitor visa, study permit, work permit or to extend your stay as a temporary resident in Canada, follow these steps:

• Add 5 years to the printed expiry date shown on your passport and enter it in the expiry date field of the application form.
• Include a letter of explanation with your application stating: “I am a Venezuelan national with a Venezuelan passport, which has been extended for 5 years”.

Warning: If your passport is still expired after adding 5 years to the printed expiry date, your passport is considered expired. You’re not eligible to submit an application with that passport.

Prepare documents and apply

The reason you’re traveling to Canada determines the way you apply and the documents you need to submit with your visa application.

Why are you applying for a visitor visa?

• To visit as a tourist
• To visit for business
• To visit your spouse or partner who has sponsored you for permanent residence

What is your family member’s status in Canada?

• Canadian citizen
• Person registered under Canada’s Indian Act
• Canadian permanent resident
• Temporary resident in Canada
• For compassionate reasons
• To join a vessel as a marine crew member (known as a “seafarer”)
• None of the above

Do you plan to visit your children or grandchildren for more than 6 months?

You may be eligible to apply for a Super Visa

A super visa lets you visit your children or grandchildren for 5 years at a time. It’s a visa that provides multiple entries for a period up to 10 years.

Find out how to apply for a Super Visa

Step 1 Gather documents

Gather these documents to submit with your visa application and bring when you travel.

About the documents listed

• Not all documents listed below are required—some are optional.
• This is not an exhaustive list of acceptable proof to support your visa application.
• Only submit the recommended documents that prove you’re eligible for a visa.
• Even if you submit all the documents listed, there is no guarantee that we’ll approve your application.
• We may request more information from you in addition to what is listed here.

Documents we accept:

• passports (regular, official or diplomatic)  from most countries (see exceptions below)
• alien’s passport for stateless persons
• US Permit to Re-Enter (Form I-327)
• US Refugee Travel Document (Form I-571)
• other refugee travel documents for non-citizens

Documents we don’t accept:

• any passport issued by Somalia
• non-machine-readable passports issued by the Czech Republic
• temporary passports issued by the Republic of South Africa
• provisional passports issued by Venezuela

A clear, colour copy of your valid passport or travel document that you’ll use to travel to Canada

If you have a passport, you must provide a copy of

• the page that shows your birth date and country of origin
• any pages with stamps, visas or markings

If you have a travel document, it must be issued by a government and include your

• date of birth
• document number
• citizenship or residency status
• expiry date (if applicable)

Submit this document with your visa application.

Family members or third parties who apply on behalf of the applicant need to complete this form.

Submit the completed form with your visa application.

Each applicant 18 years or older must complete this form.

Submit the completed form with your visa application

Documents needed depend on whether a child under 18 years of age will travel with only 1 parent, with a relative or friend or alone.

You may need to show

• a letter that authorizes the minor child to travel to Canada
• other documents, such as adoption papers or a custody decree, depending on if the minor child travels alone or not

Consult Minor children travelling to Canada .

Submit these with your visa application.

• Show the border services officer when you arrive in Canada.

If you’ve travelled to Canada or to other countries, this can show that you’ve been able to get a visa in the past.

Proof of this includes copies of previous visas in your passport.

Include a clear copy of 1 or more of the following:

• your previous passports and/or visas (used within the last 10 years to travel outside your country)
• entry and exit stamps
• study and/or work permits that indicate your duration outside of your country
• expired or valid visas

Submit this document with your visa application

Documents that show how long you plan to stay and what you’ll do in Canada

Include copies of any of the following:

• flight details
• proof of accommodation
• registration for an event

This can help us understand if you have enough money to support yourself during your stay in Canada.

Bank name and contact This allows us to contact your bank or financial institution with questions.

Proof it is your account Your name and address on the statement show that the account is yours.

Account details At least 6 months of account details, including balances, helps us understand your financial situation.

Use this form if you want to allow Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to release your personal information to someone you choose.

The person you choose will be able to get information on your case file, such as the status of your application.

Business visitor

A clear, colour copy of your valid passport or travel document that you'll use to travel to Canada

Submit this with your visa application.

A clear copy of 1 or more of the following:

• study and/or work permits that indicate your duration outside your country

Copies of any of the following:

A letter from your employer can confirm that you have a stable job and will return to it. It can also show that your employer supports your visit to Canada.

The letter should be printed on your employer’s official letterhead.

The letter should include the following:

• date, no earlier than 3 months before you apply
• confirmation that you have a job with the employer
• your full name and date of birth
• date you started the job
• brief description of your job
• current salary
• contact information of your manager
• phone number
• email address
• employer information
• company name
• state or province
• Your manager or human resources contact should print their name and sign the letter.

A letter from a business or company in Canada

It can confirm that your purpose for visiting Canada is valid.

A copy of the letter from the business or company inviting you to Canada

• The letter must be written to you from the business or company.

Consult the details to include in the letter .

Visit your spouse or partner who sponsored you for permanent residence

Proof of your relationship with the person or family member inviting you to Canada

This can include a copy of

• a marriage certificate
• Statutory Declaration of Common-Law Union (IMM5409)
• a birth certificate
• an official document naming you as a parent

Each applicant 18 years and older must complete this form.

The documents needed depend on whether a child under 18 years of age will travel with only 1 parent, with a relative or friend, or alone.

• other documents, such as adoption papers or a custody decree, depending on whether the minor child travels alone

Consult Minor children travelling to Canada

A letter written by your family member in Canada

A copy of the letter from the family member inviting you to Canada

• The letter must be written to you from your family member.
• current Salary

Complete the form that declares you and your partner are in a common-law relationship. Also provide proof that you and your common-law partner have combined your affairs and set up a household together.

What is a common-law partner?

Proof can include

• joint bank accounts or credit cards
• joint ownership of a home
• joint residential leases
• joint rental receipts
• joint utilities (electricity, gas, telephone)
• joint management of household expenses
• proof of joint purchases, especially for household items
• mail addressed to either person or both people at the same address

Faster visitor visa processing for spousal applicants

If you’re being sponsored for permanent residence (PR) by your spouse or partner, you could benefit from faster processing for a visitor visa.

You may be eligible if you

• submitted an application to be sponsored for permanent residence
• received an acknowledgement of receipt (AOR) that confirms the application is in progress

Applications that need more information, for example custody documents for a child, will take longer to process.

When your sponsor receives the AOR for your permanent residence application, you can apply for a visitor visa. If you’re eligible, your visitor visa application will automatically receive faster processing. You don’t need to request it.

You must still meet all of the requirements to be eligible for a visitor visa .

Visit family (Canadian citizen, person registered under Canada’s Indian Act, or permanent resident of Canada)

Submit with visa application

Visit children or grandchildren Super visa option

Submit this with your visa or super visa application.

For super visa applicants only

Proof that medical insurance for at least $100,000 coverage has been purchased from a Canadian insurance company.

A copy of the insurance certificate or policy you received for medical insurance coverage for 1 year with a Canadian insurance company.

Submit this with your super visa application.

Documents that show that the super visa applicant’s child or grandchild meets the low income cut-off minimum.

Submit one of the following documents:

• If the child or grandchild does not have a paper copy of their notice of assessment on file, they can view and print their tax returns as well as other personal tax information using the Canada Revenue Agency My Account online service.
• a copy of the child’s or grandchild’s most recent T4 or T1
• an original letter from the child’s or grandchild’s employer stating their job title, job description and salary
• a letter from an accountant confirming the child’s or grandchild’s annual income, if they are self-employed.
• proof of other sources of income (pension statement, investments, etc.)

A document confirming that you had an  immigration medical exam (IME)

The exam must conducted by a panel physician authorized by IRCC.

Get complete details about how to get a medical exam with a panel physician.

Submit this with your super visa application, or wait for instructions from the visa office.

Visit family (temporary resident of Canada)

A letter written by your family in Canada

Documents that show how long you plan to stay and what you’ll do once in Canada

Visit for compassionate reasons

A clear, colour copy of your valid passport or travel document that you'll use to travel to Canada.

• Show the border services officer when you arrive in Canada

A letter written to you from a person or business inviting you to Canada

A copy of the letter from the person or business inviting you to Canada

Please indicate clearly if family members will accompany you to Canada.

Submit the following documents with your visa application:

• digital copy of Seaman’s Book
• digital copy of a signed Letter of Invitation from a ship or port agent in Canada
• digital copy of an Introduction Letter from recruiter shipping agency or vessel owner
• digital copy of the employment contract

Step 2 Apply through the IRCC Portal

Step 2 apply.

To apply for a visitor visa to visit Canada on business, you need to qualify as a business visitor.

To qualify, you must show that:

• you plan to stay for less than 6 months
• you don’t plan to enter the Canadian labour market
• your main place of business and source of income and profits is outside Canada

Business visitor activities include business meetings, special events or training for a few days or weeks.

If your meeting, event or conference is registered with us, include the event code in your application. You should get this code from the organizer.

Note: If you plan to stay for more than 6 months, or if you plan to work in Canada, you may be considered a temporary worker and have to  apply for a work permit .

To apply online, you need a scanner or camera to create electronic copies of your documents, and a valid credit or debit card.

Read the instruction guide before you complete your application. As an online applicant, you can ignore steps 3 and 4 of the guide (paying the fees and submitting your application).

If you’re applying for the first time , you must pay the biometrics fee when you submit your application (unless you’re exempt). Otherwise, you may experience delays.

Apply through the IRCC Secure account

Sign in to your IRCC secure account

Apply through the IRCC Portal

Only for tourists, visiting for business, family visits, compassionate reasons

Sign in to the IRCC portal

To apply for a visitor visa to join a vessel as a marine crew member (seafarer) , you must

• be travelling to Canada to join a ship’s crew
• hold a seafarer’s identity document
• hold a valid passport or travel document
• have proof of employment on a vessel at a Canadian port

As a seafarer, you’re not eligible for a transit visa and you must apply for a visitor visa (temporary resident visa).

Note: When asked to “Tell us more about what you’ll do in Canada”, include “Join vessel” or “Seafarer”.

Register to the IRCC portal

Applying on paper for specific situations

If you need a visitor visa to travel to Canada, you must apply online for one. Only online applications will be accepted and processed. However, you can apply on paper if:

• you can’t apply online because of a disability or
• you’re travelling with an identity or travel document that was issued to a refugee, a stateless person or a non-citizen

The application package includes an instruction guide and all the forms you need to fill out.

Read the guide carefully before you complete your application . We will not refund your application fee, so make sure you need a visitor visa before you apply.

Each individual applicant must submit a completed application form. Applicants under the age of 18 must have this form signed by a parent or a guardian.

Download the application package .

Pay your application fees

In most cases, your fees will include processing fees for you and anyone you include on your application.

If you’re applying for the first time, you must pay the biometrics fee when you submit your application (unless you’re exempt). Otherwise, you may experience delays.

Third-party fees

Depending on your situation, you may need to pay third parties for

• your medical exam
• a police certificate

Our instruction guides (opens in a new tab) can help you understand which fees apply to you.

Submit your application

Families should send their individual applications in one package. The principal applicant must send this combined package to the location where their application will be processed.

Select the country/territory you’ll be applying from to find out where to submit your application. You can choose your country of nationality or the country or territory where you have been legally admitted:

• Afghanistan
• Antigua and Barbuda
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• British Virgin Islands
• Burkina Faso
• Burma (Myanmar)
• Cayman Islands
• Central African Republic
• China (People’s Republic of)
• Comoros Island
• Côte d’Ivoire
• Czech Republic
• Democratic Republic of the Congo
• Dominican Republic
• El Salvador
• Equatorial Guinea
• Guinea-Bissau
• Hong Kong SAR
• Liechtenstein
• Marshall Islands
• Micronesia (Federated States of)
• Netherlands
• New Caledonia
• New Zealand
• North Korea
• North Macedonia (Republic of)
• Palestinian Authority (Gaza)
• Palestinian Authority (West Bank)
• Papua New Guinea
• Philippines
• Puerto Rico
• Sao Tome and Principe
• Saudi Arabia
• Sierra Leone
• Solomon Islands
• South Africa
• South Korea
• South Sudan
• St. Kitts and Nevis
• St. Vincent and the Grenadines
• Switzerland
• Timor-Leste (Timor oriental)
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Turkmenistan
• Turks and Caicos Islands
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• United States of America
• US Virgin Islands

If you need to give biometrics (fingerprints and photograph), and you’re applying on paper, submit your application in person . VAC staff will check that it is complete and will confirm that you have paid the correct fees before you can give your biometrics.

Credit cards and prepaid cards

We accept the following credit cards and prepaid cards:

• MasterCard ®
• American Express ®
• UnionPay ® (for online applications only; debit cards not accepted)

If you use a prepaid credit card, keep it for at least 18 months after you pay to make refunds easier. Find more on prepaid cards .

We also accept all Visa Debit cards.

The card you use doesn’t have to be in your name. The cardholder’s name will appear on the receipt but it does not need to match your application.

Debit cards

• be from a Canadian bank using INTERAC ® Online
• be registered for online banking through your bank’s website

We also accept all Debit MasterCard ® and Visa ® Debit cards. If your card has the Visa Debit logo on it, alone or with the INTERAC ® Online logo, select Visa Debit as your payment method.

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The Best Time to Book a Flight for Domestic, International, and Summer Travel

Here are our best tips for booking travel in 2024.

When to Book Flights for Domestic Travel

When to book flights for international travel, when to book flights for summer 2024 travel, when to book flights for holiday 2024 travel.

Buying plane tickets is something of an art form. Ideally, you want to secure your spot months in advance to avoid the inevitable price spike as your travel dates get closer. But sometimes the best time to book a flight also depends on the destination and whether it's domestic or abroad. The trends are always changing, but experts say the sweet spot for booking domestic flights is 28 days, or 60 days for international flights.

Flights generally open for booking about a year ahead of time, and the airfare will change often between then and takeoff. Although you can book just a couple of weeks before the departure date in some cases, prices are likely to be astronomical. In other cases, when you want to go somewhere popular or during a big travel weekend, flights could fill up faster than normal. Our advice: Track flight prices on Google Flights or Hopper as early as possible so you can keep an eye on cost fluctuations. Read on for more advice about when to book flights from the pros.

According to Expedia's 2024 Air Travel Hacks report , you should aim to book 28 days before your domestic flight. "Doing so can save travelers up to 24 percent compared to those who wait until the last minute, from zero to six days out," Expedia travel expert Christie Hudson tells Travel + Leisure.

For domestic trips, pricing is elevated when tickets are first released, about a year before the flight. Those prices will slowly creep downward, all the way to their lowest point in the prime booking window, after which you'll likely see a huge increase in cost for last-minute travel.

Meet the Expert

Christie Hudson is a travel expert at top booking site Expedia.

You're better off booking earlier rather than later for international travel, but the Expedia report says ideally no more than four months before your desired departure date. The sweet spot is around 60 days. "This is a big change from 2022 data, which showed the cheapest fares were secured when travelers booked four to six months out." Hudson says. "2023 data revealed that people who booked that far in advance actually paid more on average." The report says the least expensive day of the week to book is Sunday and the most expensive is Friday, for both domestic and international travel.

But there is some regional variance. Going , a platform that tracks flight prices and notifies members of good deals, has found the best months to book flights to Africa, Asia, Oceania, Europe, and Latin America, for travel about 60 days out. Here's what it says.

Africa: Book in May.

Asia: Book in August or October, followed by April or September.

Oceania: Book in November, January, or July.

Europe: Book in August, October, or November.

Latin America: Book in October.

The real trick to finding good deals on international airfare is to avoid booking your travel for peak times, which include summer and major holidays (don't forget — that includes holidays in your destination, too).

Summer is traditionally one of the most popular times of the year to travel, which means it can be tough to find a good deal on airfare. Ideally, you should book flights for summer travel as soon as possible, preferably at least six months in advance.

"The best time to book for peak season is … the opposite season," says Katy Nastro, travel expert at Going. "While most of us are scrambling to focus on our winter holiday plans, we should also keep our eyes open for some great summer fares."

She notes that the booking window for peak season ranges between three and seven months for domestic flights and four to 10 months for international trips. "And if you do book something, keep that flight alert on," says Nastro. "If it drops again, depending on your ticket type, you can call to rebook and get a refund or travel credit back with the difference."

Katy Nastro is a travel expert at Going, a website that finds flight deals to more than 900 destinations around the world.

Around the winter holidays is the priciest time to travel, Nastro says. "Your best bet is to remember the Goldilocks zones: look to book between three to seven months ahead for domestic travel and four to 10 months ahead for international travel."

Hudson advises that at the very latest, your holiday travel should be booked by mid-October. "But the biggest holiday travel savings actually come from choosing the right dates," she says. "Avoiding the busiest days like the Wednesday before Thanksgiving and the Friday and Saturday before Christmas will yield major savings."

Track flights and book your holiday tickets as soon as you find a decent deal, but make sure to book a fare that will give you a credit if you cancel (generally speaking, that means don't book basic economy). That way, if prices drop between the time of booking and your travel dates, you can cancel your original ticket and use the credit to book the cheaper fare. The only downside is you'll still have some remaining credit, but you can then use it to treat yourself to a future flight. Just don't let that credit expire.

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