Travelling from Canada to India has become much easier in recent years. One of the main reasons is the option of applying for an E Visa to India from Canada. Instead of visiting an embassy, waiting in long queues, or dealing with a pile of paperwork, you can now apply online in just a few steps. The Indian government has introduced this facility to make travel simple, fast, and hassle-free for Canadian citizens.
If you are planning to visit India for tourism, business, medical treatment, or even for a conference, the India Online Visa system allows you to apply without leaving your home. In this guide, we will explain everything about the E Visa to India from Canada—from who can apply, what documents are needed, the fees, processing time, and important tips to make the process smooth.
By the end of this article, you will have all the information you need, without any confusion.
What is an E Visa to India from Canada?
An E Visa to India from Canada is an electronic visa that Canadian citizens can apply for online. Once approved, it is sent to you through email in PDF format. All you have to do is print it and carry it along with your passport while travelling.
This system is part of the India Online Visa service, where travelers from many countries can apply online instead of visiting an embassy. The visa is directly linked to your passport number, so when you arrive in India, the immigration officer can easily check it in their system.
The main advantage is that it saves time and effort. Instead of mailing documents or booking appointments at visa centers, the entire process happens digitally.
Who Can Apply?
Most Canadian passport holders are eligible for the E Visa to India from Canada. Whether you are visiting India to meet family, explore tourist spots, attend business meetings, get medical treatment, or join a conference, you can use this online visa facility.
However, there are a few exceptions. If you have a diplomatic or official passport, or if you are planning to work or stay in India for a long time, you may need a regular visa instead of an e-visa. It is always best to check the latest updates on the official India Online Visa website before applying.
Types of E Visas Available
When applying for an E Visa to India from Canada, you can choose from different categories depending on your purpose of travel:
- E-Tourist Visa – For sightseeing, vacation, or visiting friends and family.
- E-Business Visa – For attending meetings, business events, or trade activities.
- E-Medical Visa – For those seeking medical treatment in India.
- E-Medical Attendant Visa – For family members who are accompanying a patient.
- E-Conference Visa – For attending government-approved conferences.
Each visa type has its own validity and stay limits. For example, Canadian citizens can usually stay up to 180 days per visit on a tourist or business e-visa.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Applying for an E Visa to India from Canada is simple, but you must be careful while filling the form. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Go to the official India Online Visa website – Visit india-online-visa.com, which is the only official site.
- Choose your visa type – Select whether it’s tourist, business, medical, or conference.
- Fill the application form – Provide your personal details, passport information, and travel plans.
- Upload documents – You will need:
- A scanned copy of your Canadian passport (bio page).
- A recent passport-size photograph.
- Additional documents like a hospital letter (for medical) or invitation letter (for business/conference).
- Pay the visa fee – Fees can be paid online using credit or debit cards.
- Submit the form – After submission, you will get a confirmation with an application ID.
- Track your application – Use the ID to check your visa status.
- Receive your e-visa by email – Once approved, you will get your visa in PDF format. Print it and carry it with your passport when travelling.
At the Indian airport, the immigration officer will verify your e-visa along with your passport before allowing entry.
Processing Time
One of the biggest advantages of the E Visa to India from Canada is the short processing time. In most cases, it takes around 3 to 5 working days for approval. However, it is always safer to apply at least a week or two before your travel date, just in case there are any delays.
If you apply for a regular paper visa through the Indian High Commission or BLS centers in Canada, the process usually takes much longer—sometimes up to 30 days. So, the e-visa is clearly the faster choice.
Fees for Canadian Citizens
The cost of the E Visa to India from Canada depends on the type of visa and its duration. Generally, tourist e-visas are more affordable compared to business or medical visas.
For example:
- A 30-day tourist e-visa is cheaper than a one-year tourist e-visa.
- Business and medical visas usually have higher fees.
You can pay the fees online in USD, but the exact amount may vary depending on currency exchange rates. Always remember, the visa fee is non-refundable, even if your application is rejected.
Validity and Rules to Follow
Even after you get the E Visa to India from Canada, there are a few rules you need to follow:
- Your Canadian passport must be valid for at least six months from your arrival date in India.
- You cannot stay longer than the permitted duration (for example, 180 days for tourist visas).
- The e-visa cannot be extended or converted into another type of visa.
- Some areas in India require special permits, which are not covered by the e-visa.
- Always carry a printed copy of your e-visa with you when you travel.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many Canadian travelers make simple mistakes that lead to visa delays or rejections. Here are a few tips:
- Double-check that your name, date of birth, and passport number are exactly the same as in your passport.
- Make sure your photo is clear, with a plain background, and meets the required size.
- Don’t apply at the last minute. Give yourself enough time.
- Use only the official India Online Visa website to avoid scams.
- Print at least two copies of your approved e-visa for safety.
Final Thoughts
The E Visa to India from Canada is a convenient and reliable way for Canadian citizens to travel to India. It saves time, reduces paperwork, and makes the whole journey stress-free. Whether you are visiting the Taj Mahal, attending a business meeting, or getting medical treatment, the e-visa ensures you can focus on your trip instead of worrying about visa formalities.
To sum it up:
- Apply online through the India Online Visa portal.
- Prepare your documents carefully.
- Pay the fee and wait for approval.
- Receive your e-visa by email and enjoy your journey.
With this guide, you should now feel confident about applying for your E Visa to India from Canada.