Canada remains a highly popular destination for Indian travellers — whether for tourism, study, work or visiting family. To enter the country legally, Indians must obtain a suitable Canada visa from IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada). The right visa type, correct documentation, and proper application can make all the difference. Below, we break down everything you need to know in 2025.
Do Indian Citizens Need a Visa for Canada?
Yes - Indian passport holders require a visa (or permit) to enter Canada. There is no visa-on-arrival for Indians. All visa types - visitor, student or work - must be applied for through the IRCC website, and, if applicable, biometric data will be collected at a Visa Application Centre (VAC).
IRCC warns applicants to be careful of fraudulent visa agents: always verify credentials and avoid unauthorised representatives when applying.
Types of Canada Visa for Indian Travellers
Here are some of the common visa and permit types that Indian citizens apply for:
Visitor / Tourist Visa (Temporary Resident Visa, TRV): For tourism, family visits, business meetings, or conferences.
Study Permit: For full-time academic or vocational courses in Canadian institutions.
Work Permit: For employment in Canada via employer sponsorship or skilled work streams.
Transit Visa: For Indians passing through Canada en route to another country.
Super Visa: For parents or grandparents of Canadian residents — allows longer stays.
Each of these options has different eligibility criteria, duration and documentation needs.
Latest Policy & Fee Updates (2025)
The visitor visa application fee is CAD 100.
The biometric fee is CAD 85 for most applicants.
If applying as a family (five or more), the collective visitor visa fee is CAD 500.
These fees are non-refundable even if the visa is refused.
IRCC strongly cautions about visa fraud and explicitly states that paying additional fees to unauthorised “agents” does not guarantee approval.
Documents Required for Canadian Visa (Indian Applicants)
When applying from India, you typically need:
Valid Indian passport (preferably with at least six months' validity)
Completed IRCC application form (specific to visa type)
Passport-sized photographs as per IRCC specifications
Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements, tax returns or a letter of support)
Travel itinerary: flight bookings, accommodation evidence
For students: Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) or university offer letter
For workers: job offer/certificate of sponsorship
Biometric Instruction Letter (if required)
Travel insurance (recommended, sometimes mandatory depending on visa)
How to Apply for a Canada Visa from India
Create an IRCC account and choose the correct visa category.
Fill in the application form, uploading scanned documents and photographs.
Pay the visa fee and biometric fee (if required).
If biometrics are required, schedule an appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) in India.
Attend the appointment, provide fingerprints and a photo, and submit your passport if needed for stamping.
Track your application via your IRCC account and, once approved, receive a passport request to submit your physical passport.
Get your visa sticker when the passport is returned, or in some cases, a visa label.
Processing Time & Validity
Visitor Visa (TRV): From India, processing typically takes 20-40 days, depending on VAC and case complexity.
Once approved, some visitor visas are valid for up to 10 years, though each stay is generally limited to six months per visit.
Study and work permits follow different validity rules depending on the course length or job contract.
Important Tips for Indian Travellers
Apply well ahead of your travel date - biometric slots and application processing may take several weeks.
Show genuine proof of funds; IRCC closely reviews bank statements and financial stability.
Be transparent in your application - misrepresentations often lead to refusal.
Use authorised representatives if needed - but avoid unauthorised agents that claim guaranteed visa approvals.
Keep copies of your application, payment receipt, and documents for your own records.
