Tensions Between India and Canada
The relationship between India and Canada has become tense, causing worry for people applying for visas. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in India has said that it may take more actions after Canada made serious charges against Indian diplomats. This could change how visa applications are handled, especially for students.
Diplomatic Expulsions and Visa Processing
Recently, India expelled six Canadian diplomats and pulled back its High Commissioner and other staff. This means fewer people will be working at the Indian missions in Canada, which may slow down visa processing. Right now, fewer visas are being given out compared to previous years. This situation is worsened by the strain between the two countries, especially after the killing of a Khalistani terrorist named Hardeep Nijjar in Canada.
Canada’s Diplomatic Response
In response to the allegations made by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau about Indian agents being involved in the killing, Canada has reduced its diplomats by more than two-thirds since last September. They also cut the number of local staff at their missions.
Impact on Visa Issuance
India called these claims ridiculous. In the past, India stopped issuing visas to Canadian citizens for about a month. During that time, no Canadian could apply for an Indian visa, even in other countries. Many of these visas are for Indian-origin people visiting family in India, causing many difficulties for them.
Exceptions for Indian-Origin Canadians
However, Indian-origin Canadians who have a valid Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card or a long-term visa were not affected. In November 2023, India slowly began to issue visas again, starting with business and medical visas.
Suspension of Canadian Services
Canada also temporarily stopped visa and in-person services in Bengaluru, Chandigarh, and Mumbai. Both countries have not yet restarted direct flights since the Covid-19 pandemic.
Canada as a Destination for Indian Immigrants
Canada is a popular place for Indian immigrants, with many applications for permanent residency, work permits, and study visas. Earlier this year, Canada limited the number of international student visas to 360,000 for two years, which is a 35% cut from 2022. This change hit Indian students the hardest, as they make up over 41% of all international students in Canada. With fewer visas available, fewer Indian students can travel to Canada for their education.
