India Tourist Visa
Tourist Visa (T) · For Canada citizens
Planning to visit India as a Canadian citizen? This guide covers everything you need for the Indian Tourist Visa application: required documents, current fees of C$157, processing time of 7 business days, and application tips through BLS International. With proper preparation, most Canadian applications are approved.
India Tourist Visa for Canadian Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Canada citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your Canadian passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned arrival in India
Complete the online visa application form at the Indian government portal
Two recent passport-sized colour photographs meeting Indian visa specifications
Document showing your current residential address in Canada
Recommended (Optional)
Details of your planned trip to India including flight and accommodation bookings
Proof of renunciation of Indian citizenship if you were previously an Indian citizen
Application Process
All applications for Indian tourist visas from Canada must be submitted through BLS International, the authorized visa service provider.2 The process involves these steps:
1. Complete Online Application
Visit the Indian government visa portal and fill out the online application form. Provide accurate information about your travel plans, personal details, and background. Print the completed form and sign it.1
2. Gather Required Documents
Collect all necessary documents including your valid passport, photographs meeting Indian visa specifications, proof of address, and any additional documents based on your situation.2
3. Submit at BLS International
Visit a BLS International centre in Canada (Toronto, Vancouver, Ottawa) or submit by mail. Submit your completed application form, passport, photographs, and supporting documents along with the applicable fees.2
4. Wait for Processing
Standard processing takes approximately 7 business days.1 BLS International will notify you when your passport is ready for collection or will courier it back to you.
Fees
| Visa Type | Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa (1 year) | C$157 | Includes C$153 visa fee + C$4 processing |
| Tourist Visa (5 year) | C$157 | Subject to availability |
| BLS Service Fee | Additional | Charged separately by BLS International |
| Courier Service | Additional | Optional return delivery service |
Fees are payable at the time of application submission. BLS International accepts various payment methods.2
What You Need to Prove
The Indian visa authorities require you to demonstrate:1
- Genuine tourism purpose: Clear travel plans showing you intend to visit India for leisure, sightseeing, or visiting family and friends
- Valid travel documents: Canadian passport with sufficient validity and blank pages
- Intention to return: Evidence of ties to Canada (employment, family, property)
- Financial capability: Ability to fund your trip without working in India
Processing Times
Standard processing for Indian tourist visas from Canada takes approximately 7 business days.1 This does not include postal delivery time if you are submitting by mail.
Processing times may vary based on:2
- Volume of applications during peak travel seasons
- Completeness of your application
- Your travel history and citizenship status
- Holiday closures at BLS International or Indian missions
Apply at least 3-4 weeks before your intended travel date to allow for any delays.
After Your Visa is Approved
Once approved, your visa sticker will be placed in your passport. Before traveling, verify:
- The visa validity dates match your travel plans
- Your name is spelled correctly
- The number of entries (single/multiple) meets your needs
- The visa type is correct (Tourist)
At Indian immigration, you may be asked to show:
- Return or onward flight tickets
- Hotel reservations or host’s address
- Proof of sufficient funds
- Travel insurance (recommended)
If Your Visa is Refused
If your application is refused, you will be notified of the decision. You can:
- Reapply with improved documentation addressing any issues
- Contact BLS International for guidance on the refusal reason
- Consider alternatives such as the e-Visa program for faster processing
A refusal does not permanently bar you from future applications. Address the concerns raised and reapply with complete documentation.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Incomplete Documentation
Missing required documents or photographs that do not meet specifications. Application forms with blank or incomplete fields.
How to avoid: Use the BLS International checklist to verify all documents are included. Ensure photographs meet exact specifications before submitting.
Passport Issues
Passport validity less than 6 months, insufficient blank pages, or damaged passport submitted for visa processing.
How to avoid: Renew your passport if it has less than 6 months validity or fewer than 2 blank pages. Never submit a damaged passport.
Unclear Travel Purpose
Vague or suspicious travel itinerary, inconsistent dates, or purpose of visit not clearly established.
How to avoid: Provide a clear travel itinerary with specific dates and places. Include hotel bookings or invitation letters from hosts in India.
Former Indian Citizenship Issues
Missing renunciation certificate for former Indian citizens or OCI holders applying for a tourist visa incorrectly.
How to avoid: If you were born in India or previously held Indian citizenship, ensure you have proper renunciation documentation. Consider the OCI card as an alternative.
Insufficient Financial Evidence
Unable to demonstrate sufficient funds to cover travel expenses in India.
How to avoid: Include recent bank statements showing adequate funds. A general guideline is C$100-150 per day of stay plus flight costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I stay in India on a tourist visa?
The duration of stay depends on the visa granted. Tourist visas are typically issued for 1 year with multiple entries, allowing stays of up to 90 days per visit. Longer-term visas (5 or 10 years) may be available for eligible applicants.
Can I apply for an Indian e-Visa as a Canadian citizen?
Yes, Canadian citizens are eligible for the India e-Visa for tourism. The e-Tourist Visa can be applied online and is valid for 30 days, 1 year, or 5 years depending on the category chosen. It is often faster than the traditional visa application.
How long does Indian visa processing take from Canada?
Standard processing through BLS International takes approximately 7 business days, not including postal delivery time. During peak travel seasons, processing may take longer. Plan to apply at least 3-4 weeks before your intended travel date.
What is the Indian tourist visa fee for Canadians in 2025?
The Tourist Visa fee is C$153 plus a C$4 processing fee, totaling C$157. BLS International service fees are charged separately. Fees may vary for different visa durations or expedited processing.
Do I need to submit my passport for an Indian visa?
Yes, you must submit your original passport to BLS International for visa processing. Your passport will be returned with the visa sticker after processing. Consider using a courier service for secure delivery.
Can former Indian citizens apply for a tourist visa?
Yes, but you must provide proof of renunciation of Indian citizenship, including your surrender certificate and cancelled Indian passport. You may also consider applying for an OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) card, which provides lifelong visa-free travel to India.