Canada Visa Guide 2025 for Indian Travelers

Canada Visa Guide 2025 for Indian Travelers

Table of Contents

🏳️ Country Overview

Country Name - Canada

Planning a trip to Canada? Whether you’re heading there for tourism, studies, work, or to reunite with family, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the visa application process with ease.

Indian citizens require a visa to enter Canada. The application process is managed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and is facilitated through Visa Application Centres (VACs) in India. Applications can be submitted online or in person.

Official Website Link

📝 Visa Types & Basic Requirements

Types of Visas Available

  • Visitor Visa (Tourist)

  • Study Permit

  • Work Permit

  • Super Visa (for parents and grandparents)

  • Temporary Resident Visa (TRV)

  • Permanent Resident Visa

  • Transit Visa

Age Requirement

  • Visitor Visa: No specific age requirement.

  • Study Permit: Applicants must be at least 18 years old.

  • Work Permit: Applicants must be at least 18 years old.

  • Super Visa: For parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents.

Passport Validity

  • Validity: At least 6 months beyond the intended date of arrival in Canada.

  • Blank Pages: At least 2 blank pages for visa stamps.

Visa Validity

  • Visitor Visa: Up to 6 months.

  • Study Permit: Duration of the study program plus an additional 90 days.

  • Work Permit: Duration of the job offer.

Stay Duration Allowed

  • Visitor Visa: Up to 6 months per visit.

  • Study Permit: As per the study program duration.

  • Work Permit: As per the employment contract.

Number of Entries

  • Visitor Visa: Single or multiple entries.

  • Study Permit: Single entry.

  • Work Permit: Single entry.

💸 Fees & Processing

Visa Fee

Visa Type Fee (INR)
Visitor Visa ₹8,000
Study Permit ₹12,000
Work Permit ₹14,000
Super Visa ₹10,000
Permanent Resident ₹15,000

Note: Fees are approximate and subject to change. Please refer to the official website for the most current fees.

Processing Time

  • Visitor Visa: Approximately 7 weeks.

  • Study Permit: Approximately 7 weeks.

  • Work Permit: Approximately 10 weeks.

Processing times may vary based on the volume of applications and other factors.

When to Apply

It’s recommended to apply for your Canadian visa at least 4–6 weeks before your intended travel date. This allows ample time for processing and any unforeseen delays.

📄 Documents & Proof

Documents Required

  • Valid Passport

  • Visa Application Form: Completed and signed.

  • Photographs: As per specifications.

  • Financial Documents: As mentioned above.

  • Letter of Acceptance: For students.

  • Employment Letter: For workers.

  • Travel Itinerary: Flight and hotel bookings.

  • Cover Letter: Explaining the purpose of visit.

Financial Proof

Applicants must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover their stay in Canada. Acceptable documents include:

  • Bank Statements: Last 6 months.

  • Income Tax Returns (ITR): Last 3 years.

  • Pay Slips: Last 3 months.

  • Affidavit of Support: If someone else is sponsoring your trip.

  • Scholarship Letters: For students.

Translations Needed?

All documents submitted in support of your application must be in English or French. If your documents are in any other language, you must provide:

  • A certified translation of the document.

  • An affidavit from the translator confirming the accuracy of the translation.

Visa Photo Specifications

📏 Dimensions

  • Size: 50 mm x 70 mm (2 inches wide x 2 ¾ inches tall)

  • Face Size: The face should be between 31 mm and 36 mm from chin to crown

  • Photo should be taken within the last 6 months

📷 Background & Lighting

  • Background: Plain white or light-colored background only

  • Lighting: No shadows on the face or background

  • Photo Quality: High-resolution, clear, and not pixelated or overexposed

  • No filters or digital touch-ups allowed

👤 Face & Expression

  • Face must be square to the camera, looking straight ahead

  • Neutral expression: No smiling, frowning, or raised eyebrows

  • Eyes open, mouth closed

  • Both ears and full face should be clearly visible

👓 Glasses, Headgear & Accessories

  • Glasses: Not recommended; if worn, no glare, tint, or frames covering the eyes

  • Headgear: Not allowed unless worn for religious or medical reasons (must not cast a shadow on the face)

  • Jewelry: Avoid flashy items; no reflections or distractions

👶 Special Notes for Children

  • Infants and babies must have their eyes open and mouth closed

  • No hands or objects (like toys or parent’s hands) visible in the frame

  • Background should still be plain and light-colored

🖨️ Photo Paper & Format

  • Printed on high-quality photographic paper (not home-printed)

  • Matte or glossy finish accepted

  • Digital copies must meet the same criteria if submitting online (in JPEG format, min 600×800 pixels, max file size 240 kB–4 MB)

👩‍⚖️ Interviews, Biometrics & E-Visa

Interview Required

An interview is generally not required. However, applicants may be called for an interview if additional information is needed.

Biometric Requirement

Yes: Biometric information (fingerprints and photograph) is required for all applicants aged 14 to 79.

E-Visa Available?

No: Canada does not offer e-Visas. All visa applications must be submitted through the official channels.

E-Visa Link

📌 Application & Tracking

Application Process

  • Determine Visa Type: Identify the appropriate visa category based on your purpose of visit.

  • Gather Documents: Collect all required documents, including passport, photographs, financial proof, and purpose of visit documents.

  • Create IRCC Account: Register on the IRCC website using GCKey or Sign-In Partner.

  • Complete Application: Fill out the visa application form and upload scanned copies of your documents.

  • Pay Fees: Pay the visa and biometrics fees online through your IRCC account.

  • Submit Biometrics: Attend a VAC to provide fingerprints and photographs.

  • Wait for Processing: Monitor your application status through your IRCC account.

  • Receive Decision: If approved, submit your passport for visa stamping.

  • Collect Passport: Receive your passport with the visa sticker.

Appointment Booking Link
Track Visa Status​

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Dependents & Work

Dependents Info

Dependents, including spouses and children, can accompany the primary applicant to Canada. Requirements include:

  • Visitor Visa: Each dependent must apply separately.

  • Study Permit: Spouses may apply for an open work permit; children may attend school.

  • Work Permit: Spouses may apply for an open work permit; children may attend school.

*Note: Dependents must meet all eligibility criteria and provide necessary documentation.

Working Rights

  • Visitor Visa: Not permitted to work.

  • Study Permit: Allows part-time work during studies and full-time during scheduled breaks.

  • Work Permit: Permits employment with a specific employer.

  • Open Work Permit: Allows employment with any employer in Canada.

*Note: Working without the appropriate authorization can lead to serious consequences, including deportation. Always ensure you have the correct permit before seeking employment.

Visa Extension Info

  • Visitor Visa: Apply online at least 30 days before the current visa expires.

  • Study Permit: Apply online or at a VAC before the current permit expires.

  • Work Permit: Apply online or at a VAC before the current permit expires.

Note: Extensions are not guaranteed and depend on individual circumstances.

🌍 Embassy & Support

VFS/Global Partner Centers

Visa Application Centres (VACs) are located in major cities across India:

  • New Delhi: VFS Global, DLF Capitol Point, Shankar Market, Rajendra Place.

  • Mumbai: VFS Global, 2nd Floor, B-Wing, Andheri Kurla Road, Marol Naka.

  • Chennai: VFS Global, 1st Floor, Khivraj Complex, 480, Anna Salai.

  • Bangalore: VFS Global, 3rd Floor, Prestige Meridian II, M.G. Road.

  • Hyderabad: VFS Global, 2nd Floor, My Home Tycoon, Begumpet.

Note: It’s advisable to check the VFS Global website for the most current locations and operating hours.

Embassy Locations

Address:
7/8 Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi 110021, IndiaWikipedia

Contact Information:

🗺️ Other Diplomatic Missions in India

While visa services are centralized in New Delhi, Canada maintains consular presence in other cities for various diplomatic and community engagement purposes:

  • Consulate General in Bengaluru
    Address: 2nd Floor, Prestige Meridian II, MG Road, Bengaluru 560001
    Note: In-person services are currently suspended.

  • Consulate General in Mumbai
    Address: 2nd Floor, B-Wing, Andheri Kurla Road, Marol Naka, Mumbai 400059
    Note: In-person services are currently suspended.

  • Consulate General in Chandigarh
    Address: SCO 77-78, Sector 17-C, Chandigarh 160017
    Note: In-person services are currently suspended

🦠 Health & Rejections

Covid-19 Guidelines

As of May 2025, Canada has lifted all COVID-19-related travel restrictions for international travelers, including those from India. This means there are no longer requirements for vaccination, testing, quarantine, or the use of the ArriveCAN app.

✅ Key Guidelines for Travelers

  • Vaccination: Not required for entry.

  • Testing: No pre-arrival or post-arrival COVID-19 testing needed.

  • Quarantine: Not mandatory upon arrival.

  • ArriveCAN App: Use is optional; no longer required for entry.

  • Masking: Not mandated, but recommended in crowded or enclosed spaces.

🧼 Health Recommendations

  • Self-Monitoring: Stay alert for any COVID-19 symptoms and seek medical attention if needed.

  • Mask Usage: While not compulsory, wearing masks in high-traffic areas like airports and public transport is encouraged.

  • Sanitization: Regularly use hand sanitizers, especially after touching public surfaces.

🧳 Travel Tips

  • Travel Insurance: Consider obtaining travel insurance that covers health-related expenses, including COVID-19.

  • Documentation: Carry proof of health insurance and any necessary medical documents.

  • Stay Informed: Regularly check Travel.gc.ca for any updates or changes to travel advisories.

Common Rejection Reasons

  • Insufficient Financial Proof: Inability to demonstrate sufficient funds.

  • Incomplete Application: Missing documents or incorrect information.

  • Lack of Ties to Home Country: Failure to prove intent to return to India.

  • Previous Immigration Violations: History of overstaying or violating visa conditions.

  • Unclear Purpose of Visit: Inability to clearly explain the purpose of the trip.

💡 Final Notes

Important Tips

✅ 1. Start Early!

  • Apply at least 6–8 weeks in advance of your travel date.

  • Processing times can vary and may be delayed during peak travel seasons.

📁 2. Organize Your Documents Carefully

  • Ensure all documents are clear, legible, and up to date.

  • Missing or incorrect documents are one of the top reasons for rejections.

  • Double-check translations if any of your documents are not in English or French.

💵 3. Prove You Can Afford the Trip

  • Keep your bank balance consistent (not just last-minute deposits).

  • Submit Income Tax Returns (ITRs) for the last 3 years.

  • Show employment letters, property ownership, or business licenses as proof of strong ties to India.

🧾 4. Write a Strong Cover Letter

  • Briefly explain:

    • Why you’re going to Canada

    • What you plan to do there

    • Who is sponsoring the trip (if applicable)

    • How long you plan to stay

  • Be clear, concise, and honest.

🛑 5. Don’t Overstay or Break Rules

  • Always respect visa conditions—no work on a tourist visa, for example.

  • Overstaying or violating terms may impact future visa approvals.

📷 6. Follow Photo Specs Strictly

  • Canada is strict about photo specifications.

  • Get your visa photo taken at a professional studio that knows IRCC requirements.

📲 7. Use the IRCC and VFS Sites Only

  • Apply only through the official IRCC portal or VFS Global.

  • Avoid fake agents or unofficial third-party websites—they may scam you or submit incorrect info.

📝 8. Check for Latest Guidelines

📧 9. Keep Your Contact Info Accurate

  • Provide a valid phone number and email address.

  • You’ll receive biometric instructions and updates via email.

📅 10. Track Your Application

  • Keep your tracking number and receipt from VFS.

  • Use IRCC Portal to check your application status.

FAQs

💸 Q1: How much is the Canada visa fee now?

A: The current fees for Canadian visas (approximate in INR as of 2025) are:

Visa Type Fee (INR)
Visitor Visa ₹8,000
Study Permit ₹12,000
Work Permit ₹14,000
Super Visa ₹10,000
PR Processing Fee ₹15,000+

Note: Biometric fees (₹4,000 approx) are additional and mandatory for most applicants.

🌐 Q2: Is the Canada visa open for Indians?

A: ✅ Yes, Canada is currently accepting visa applications from Indian citizens for all categories—tourist, student, work, and PR. However, due to recent diplomatic developments, in-person consular services are centralized in New Delhi. Apply online or via VFS Global.

🧳 Q3: How can I get a Canada tourist visa from India?

A: Follow these steps:

  1. Visit the IRCC Portal

  2. Create an account and complete the IMM 5257 form (Visitor Visa)

  3. Upload supporting documents (passport, financials, travel plan, etc.)

  4. Pay the visa and biometric fee

  5. Book an appointment at the nearest VFS for biometrics

  6. Track application status online

  7. If approved, submit your passport for visa stamping

Need help preparing? I can guide you through it!

📝 Q4: Which type of Canada visa is easiest to get?

A: The Visitor Visa (Tourist) is considered one of the easiest to get if:

  • You have strong financials

  • Clear purpose of visit

  • Ties to India (job, family, property)

  • Clean travel history

Student and work permits are more document-heavy but also common for Indians.

🛂 Q5: How to get a Canada 10-year visa?

A: You can apply for a Multiple Entry Visitor Visa, which may be valid for up to 10 years or until your passport expires.

Tips to increase your chances:

  • Apply with a valid passport that has at least 10 years of validity

  • Submit strong financial and employment documents

  • Include a solid travel history

  • Clearly explain your need for long-term multiple visits (e.g., frequent business or family visits)

Final validity is always at the discretion of the visa officer.

⏳ 6: What is the Canada tourist visa processing time for Indian applicants?

A: The average Canada tourist visa processing time from India is around 6 to 8 weeks. However, this can vary depending on application volume, biometric appointments, and document verification. It’s best to apply early! ✅