e-Visa required

Canadian citizens need an e-Visa or a regular visa before travelling to India.

Canadian citizens are required to obtain a visa to enter India. The most convenient option for tourism is the e-Visa (Electronic Travel Authorization), which can be applied for online. For longer stays or specific circumstances, a regular visa can be obtained from an Indian Embassy or Consulate.

Visa types & details

Choose a visa category to see its details — all options for Canada → India.

e-Tourist Visa (1 Year)
Validity
1 year from the date of Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) issuance
Max stay
90 days per visit
Entries
Multiple Entry
Processing time
Typically 72 hours, but it is advisable to apply at least 4 days in advance of your travel date.
Best for

For recreation, sightseeing, casual visit to meet friends/relatives, or short duration yoga programmes.

Government fee: fees vary by visa type and nationality and change often. Check the official fee portal

Documents required for Canadian citizens

Tick items as you collect them — 0 of 5 ready.

How to apply for a India visa from Canada

Follow these steps in order.

  1. 1
    Visit the official Indian e-Visa website.
    Apply for e-Visa
  2. 2
    Click on 'e-Visa Application' and select your visa type (e.g., e-Tourist Visa).
  3. 3
    Fill out the online application form accurately with all required personal and travel details.
  4. 4
    Upload your recent digital photograph and a scanned copy of your passport's bio page, ensuring they meet the specified requirements.
  5. 5
    Pay the e-Visa fee online using a credit/debit card. Fees are non-refundable.
  6. 6
    Receive your Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) via email, typically within 72 hours. Print a copy of the ETA and carry it with you during your travel to India.

Common India visa rejection reasons

Why Canada → India applications get refused — and how to avoid it.

  • Incomplete or inaccurate application form

    How to avoid: Ensure all mandatory fields are filled correctly and completely. Double-check all information before submission.

  • Poor quality or incorrect document uploads

    How to avoid: Upload clear, high-resolution scans of your passport bio page and a digital photograph that strictly adhere to the specified dimensions and file size requirements.

  • Passport validity issues

    How to avoid: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your intended date of arrival in India and has at least two blank pages.

  • Discrepancy in personal information

    How to avoid: Verify that all personal details provided in the application (name, date of birth, passport number) exactly match those on your passport.

  • Previous visa violations or overstays

    How to avoid: Always adhere strictly to the terms and conditions of any previous visas for India. Any past violations can lead to future rejections.

  • Security concerns or criminal record

    How to avoid: Be truthful in your application regarding any past criminal history or security-related issues. Non-disclosure can lead to rejection.

Trip essentials

Hand-picked tools for your India trip.

Travel insurance

Cover for medical emergencies & delays.

eSIM & data

Get online the moment you land.

Flights

Compare routes to India.

Stays

Hotels & rentals at your destination.

Things to know & places to visit

Practical tips and top destinations.

  • Always carry a printed copy of your e-Visa (ETA) and passport during your travel.
  • Be aware of local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
  • Stay hydrated, particularly in warmer regions, and consider using bottled water.
  • Use reputable transportation services and pre-booked taxis or ride-sharing apps for safety.
Best time to visit

October to March, when the weather is generally cooler and drier across most of the country.

Top places
  • 📍 Taj Mahal, Agra
  • 📍 Jaipur (Pink City), Rajasthan
  • 📍 Goa (Beaches)
  • 📍 Kerala (Backwaters)
  • 📍 Delhi (Historical Sites)

Frequently asked questions

  • No, e-Tourist Visas are generally non-extendable and non-convertible. You must depart India before your visa expires.

  • e-Visa holders can enter India through 28 designated Airports and 5 designated Seaports. Departure can be from any authorized Immigration Check Post (ICP).

  • No, the e-Tourist Visa is strictly for tourism, recreation, and casual visits. It does not permit employment, business activities (other than those covered by e-Business visa), or study.

  • If your e-Visa application is rejected, you may apply for a regular visa at the nearest Indian Embassy or Consulate. Review the reasons for rejection if provided, and ensure your new application addresses those issues.

  • If you remain within the international transit area of the airport and do not pass through immigration, a transit visa is generally not required. However, if you need to leave the airport or your layover is long, a transit visa or e-Tourist visa might be necessary. It's best to confirm with the airline or Indian authorities.

This page is AI-assisted and last verified on 12 Jul 2026. Visa rules change — always confirm on the official source before you travel.