Canada is a beautiful country with diverse natural landscapes that make it an excellent tourist destination. India, on the other hand, is a fascinating country that is rich in culture, history, and tradition. If you are a Canadian planning to visit India for tourism purposes, you will require a tourist visa.
Getting a tourist visa for India from Canada may seem daunting, but it is a straightforward process if you know the necessary steps. In this article, we will guide you on how to obtain a tourist visa for India from Canada, the requirements, and what to expect when you arrive in India.
What Is a Tourist Visa?
A tourist visa is a type of visa that allows you to enter a foreign country for tourism purposes. It is usually valid for a specific period and is non-extendable. In the case of India, a tourist visa is granted to foreign nationals who wish to visit the country for sightseeing, recreation, and visiting friends and relatives.
Types of Tourist Visa
Before applying for a tourist visa to India, you need to know the types of visas available, so you apply for the one that suits your needs:
Single Entry Visa
A single-entry visa allows you to enter India only once and stay for up to 90 days from the date of entry. Once you leave the country, the visa becomes invalid.
Double Entry Visa
A double-entry visa allows you to enter India twice within the validity of the visa. You can stay up to 90 days from the date of entry on each visit.
Multiple Entry Visa
A multiple-entry visa allows you to enter and leave India multiple times within the validity of the visa. You can stay up to 180 days from the date of entry on each visit.
Requirements for Tourist Visa India From Canada
Now that you know the types of tourist visas available, let’s look at the requirements for obtaining a tourist visa to India from Canada:
Passport
You must possess a valid passport with a minimum of six months validity from the date of your intended arrival in India. The passport must have at least two blank pages for visa stamping.
Visa Application Form
You need to fill out a visa application form online on the Indian government’s website. You must fill out the form accurately and truthfully and attach a recent passport-sized photograph.
Proof of Travel Arrangements
You need to have proof of your travel arrangements to and from India, such as flight tickets or travel itinerary.
Proof of Accommodation
You must provide proof of your accommodation in India, such as hotel bookings or an invitation letter from your host in India.
Financial Support
You need to show proof that you have sufficient funds to cover your expenses in India, such as bank statements or credit card statements.
Police Clearance Certificate
You need to obtain a police clearance certificate from your local police department, stating that you have no criminal record.
Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate
If you have recently traveled to a country that is affected by yellow fever, you need to provide a yellow fever vaccination certificate.
How to Apply for a Tourist Visa India From Canada
Now that you know the requirements let’s look at how to apply for a tourist visa to India from Canada:
Step 1: Fill Out the Visa Application Form
Visit the Indian government’s website and fill out the visa application form accurately and truthfully. Attach a recent passport-sized photograph and submit it.
Step 2: Pay the Visa Fee
After submitting the application form, you need to pay the visa fee online using a credit or debit card. The fee varies depending on the type of visa and the duration of stay.
Step 3: Schedule an Appointment
After payment, you need to schedule an appointment at the nearest Indian embassy or consulate in Canada. You will receive an appointment confirmation with the date and time of your appointment.
Step 4: Submit the Documents
On the day of your appointment, you need to submit all the required documents, including your passport, visa application form, and proof of travel arrangements, accommodation, financial support, police clearance certificate, and yellow fever vaccination certificate.
Step 5: Collect Your Visa
After submission, your visa application will be processed, and you will be notified when your visa is ready for collection. You can collect your visa in person or by mail.
What to Expect When You Arrive in India
After obtaining your tourist visa to India from Canada, you are now ready to travel to India for tourism purposes. Here are a few things you need to know before you arrive in India:
Health and Safety
India is a safe country for tourists, but it is advisable to take precautions to ensure your safety. It would be best to carry a first aid kit and take necessary vaccinations before traveling to India.
Climate
India has a diverse climate, depending on the region you are visiting. It is advisable to research the weather conditions of the region you are visiting to pack accordingly.
Currency
The currency used in India is the Indian rupee. It would be best to exchange your Canadian dollars for Indian rupees at a bank or exchange bureau to avoid high transaction fees.
Conclusion
Obtaining a tourist visa to India from Canada is a straightforward process if you follow the necessary steps and meet the requirements. Remember to take necessary precautions when traveling to India and enjoy your trip.
