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.
For recreation, sightseeing, casual visit to meet friends/relatives, or short duration yoga programmes.
For recreation, sightseeing, casual visit to meet friends/relatives, or short duration yoga programmes.
For business purposes, attending meetings, setting up industrial/business ventures, or participating in trade fairs.
For seeking medical treatment in India.
For tourism purposes, especially if planning stays longer than 90 days per visit or not eligible for e-Visa.
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.
- 1Visit the official Indian e-Visa website.Apply for e-Visa
- 2Click on 'e-Visa Application' and select your visa type (e.g., e-Tourist Visa).
- 3Fill out the online application form accurately with all required personal and travel details.
- 4Upload your recent digital photograph and a scanned copy of your passport's bio page, ensuring they meet the specified requirements.
- 5Pay the e-Visa fee online using a credit/debit card. Fees are non-refundable.
- 6Receive 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.
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.
October to March, when the weather is generally cooler and drier across most of the country.
- 📍 Taj Mahal, Agra
- 📍 Jaipur (Pink City), Rajasthan
- 📍 Goa (Beaches)
- 📍 Kerala (Backwaters)
- 📍 Delhi (Historical Sites)
Frequently asked questions
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No, e-Tourist Visas are generally non-extendable and non-convertible. You must depart India before your visa expires.
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e-Visa holders can enter India through 28 designated Airports and 5 designated Seaports. Departure can be from any authorized Immigration Check Post (ICP).
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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.
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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.
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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.