Do Indian passport holders need a visa for Canada?
Yes, Indian passport holders require a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), commonly referred to as a visitor visa, to travel to Canada. India is not among the countries whose citizens can visit Canada visa-free or with only an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA). All applications must be submitted through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the Canadian government’s immigration authority.
Canada is a highly popular destination for Indian travellers, particularly those visiting family and friends, exploring its stunning natural landscapes, or attending events and conferences. The visa application process is primarily online, which makes it accessible from anywhere in India.
How to Apply
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Create an IRCC account: Register for a free account on the Government of Canada’s IRCC portal (ircc.canada.ca). This is where you will complete and submit your application.
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Gather your documents: Compile all supporting documents as listed below before beginning the application to avoid delays.
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Complete the online application: Fill in the visitor visa application form (IMM 5257) online. Answer all questions truthfully and completely.
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Pay the application fee: Pay CAD $100 (visitor visa fee) plus CAD $85 if biometrics are required. Payments are made by credit card through the IRCC portal.
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Provide biometrics if requested: You will be directed to visit a Visa Application Centre (VAC) in India to provide biometrics (fingerprints and photograph). VACs are operated by VFS Global in cities across India.
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Submit and track: Track your application status through your IRCC account. You may receive a request for additional documents.
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Receive your visa: If approved, a visa counterfoil will be stamped in your passport, which you can then collect from the VAC or by mail.
Documents Required
- Valid Indian passport (minimum 6 months validity beyond intended return date)
- Completed application form (IMM 5257)
- Two recent passport-sized photographs
- Proof of financial support: bank statements (last 6 months), fixed deposits, property documents
- Proof of employment or business: employment letter with salary details, or business registration and financials
- Income tax returns (last 2–3 years)
- Travel history: copies of previously issued visas (US, UK, Schengen visas are viewed favourably)
- Purpose of visit documentation: invitation letter from Canadian host (if applicable), travel itinerary, conference registration
- Ties to India: evidence of property, ongoing employment, family dependants
Costs & Fees
- Visitor visa fee: CAD $100 (~₹6,000) per person
- Biometrics fee: CAD $85 (~₹5,000) per person (if required)
- VFS service fee: Approximately ₹1,500–₹2,000
Total out-of-pocket cost for most Indian applicants: approximately ₹12,000–₹14,000 per person.
Tips
- Start early: Processing times of 8–12 weeks are common. During peak periods (summer, festival season), processing can be even longer.
- Previous visas from strong countries help: If you hold or have held a US, UK, or Schengen visa, include copies. Canadian visa officers view these favourably as they indicate prior successful international travel.
- Strong financial documentation is essential: Ensure your bank statements show stable, consistent balances, not sudden large transfers made just before the application.
- Invitation letter from a Canadian contact: If visiting friends or family in Canada, a detailed invitation letter signed by your host with their status in Canada and contact details significantly strengthens your application.
- Be honest and thorough: Any inconsistencies between documents or the application form can lead to refusal.