With rising opportunities in the technology education sectors in Canada, more and more Indians are moving to the Great White North for better life opportunities. Plus, the scenic, majestic Rockies to the lively Toronto streets also beckon tourists to Canada.
As an Indian passport holder intending to travel to Canada, you must mandatorily apply for and obtain a Canada visa. Canada offers multiple types of visas for Indians that allow you to travel, study, work, or even settle in the country. Here’s a detailed guide on the Canada Visa for Indians – the types, eligibility requirements, tips and more.
To obtain your Canada visa, you must visit the official website of the Canadian government and create your IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) account. The IRCC account will enable you to apply for or manage your visa application, track your application status processing time, pay fees and get access to relevant information.
After creating your IRCC account, you must decide what kind of visa you require depending on your intended purpose of visit. You may also apply for the visa via VFS Global Services.
Canada offers a range of visa options for Indian nationals, each designed for specific travel purposes. Here's a quick overview of the most common types of visas:
If you're planning a leisure trip to Canada or wish to visit family and friends, you will need a visitor visa. This visa allows you to stay in Canada for up to six months but does not permit you to work or study.
A study permit is necessary for those seeking to pursue education in Canada. If your course lasts six months or longer, ensure you have an acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) before applying. Note that a study permit is not a visa; you must also obtain a visitor visa or an electronic travel authorisation (eTA) to enter Canada.
Canada provides several types of work permits tailored to the needs of different applicants. Here are some common categories:
If you plan to settle in Canada permanently, you can benefit from various immigration programs. These initiatives are designed to help individuals worldwide start a new life and contribute to Canadian society. With options tailored for different skilled workers, Canada has something for everyone. Here’s an overview of key immigration programs available:
The Express Entry program is a points-based system aimed at skilled workers seeking permanent residency. It evaluates candidates based on age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and other important factors. The program includes three pathways:
Canadian citizens and permanent residents can use this program to bring eligible family members to Canada. The Family Sponsorship program allows sponsorship of partners, spouses, dependent children, parents, and grandparents for permanent residency.
This program is for entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas that can create new jobs in Canada. It supports individuals looking to establish a business that contributes to the economy.
If you can contribute to Canada’s cultural or athletic landscape, this program offers a pathway to permanent residency for self-employed individuals.
Designed for those who can provide care for children, the elderly, or individuals with medical conditions, this program allows caregivers to come to Canada with the opportunity to apply for permanent residency.
Processing times vary based on several factors, including the type of visa or permit, your country of residence, and the volume of applications received. Different visas, such as tourist, study, and work permits, have distinct processing times. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, visit the official IRCC website or consult the Canada immigration department.
Start your application at least three months before your travel date. Visa processing times vary by visa type and required documents. Ample time allows you to gather the necessary documents and complete the application without rushing.
Begin your application at least three months before your intended travel date. Visa processing times vary depending on the type of visa and the documents required. Giving yourself ample time will allow you to gather all the necessary documents and complete the application without feeling rushed.
Visit the official IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) website to familiarise yourself with the guidelines. Understanding how to fill out each application form section correctly is crucial for a successful submission.
Review the specific requirements and eligibility criteria for the visa you wish to apply for. Ensure you meet all prerequisites before starting your application to avoid unnecessary delays.
You need to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your stay in Canada. Make the necessary arrangements in your bank account to provide clear and accurate evidence of your financial capacity, as this is a vital aspect of your application.
Regularly check your application status through your IRCC account. Staying informed about any updates or requests from the Canada immigration department will help you respond promptly and keep your application on track.
Having an HDFC Bank Forex Card helps you to handle your finances easily while enhancing your overseas travel experience. The Forex Card is a prepaid card on which you can load multiple foreign currencies, including Canadian Dollars. You can purchase the card online or at HDFC Bank branches and load it with your preferred foreign currencies. Once in Canada, you can use the card to pay for all expenses. Buying the Forex Card also proves beneficial as you can lock in forex rates while reducing the risk of currency rate fluctuations.
Apply for HDFC Bank Forex Cards online and redefine how you travel abroad.