Canada Visa Processing At Risk As India Asks to Cut Staff

Canada has chosen to remain mum on reports suggesting that New Delhi has formally requested a significant reduction in personnel at Canadian missions in India.

This comes amidst a growing diplomatic dispute, with Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly, emphasizing her government’s preference for private engagement on the matter.

India’s Call for Diplomatic Parity

The Indian government has urged Canada to withdraw a substantial number of diplomats, aiming to establish parity in both strength and rank within mutual diplomatic missions.

Experts foresee this move impacting the processing of Canadian visa applications, given Canada’s robust diplomatic presence at its high commission in New Delhi and consulates in Bengaluru, Chandigarh, and Mumbai, strategically positioned to manage the high volume of visa requests.

Trudeau’s Allegation Sparks Diplomatic Storm

The diplomatic rift escalated when Prime Minister Justin Trudeau linked Indian government agents to the killing of Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar last month.

India promptly dismissed the accusation as “absurd,” resulting in reciprocal expulsions of senior diplomats. An advisory for Indian citizens travelling to Canada underscored concerns over growing anti-India activities and politically condoned hate crimes.

Impact on Canada Visa Processing in India

While there is no official statement from Canada regarding the reduction of diplomatic personnel, insiders reveal that the current developments have not yet affected Canadian visa processing services.

However, there is an acknowledgement that a substantial reduction in diplomatic personnel is likely to have a significant impact.

Bilateral Relationship Status Reflects Diplomatic Presence

The size of a country’s diplomatic representation in India is often indicative of the overall bilateral relationship status.

For instance, the United States has significantly increased the number of diplomats posted in India to accommodate the surge in visa applications and facilitate expanded cooperation in various areas.

Concerns for the Education Sector and Business Community

India stands as the leading source of foreign students in Canada, with 230,000 Indian students enrolled in Canadian institutions.

The diplomatic discord raises questions about the potential impact on funding sources for educational institutions, particularly in the Canadian province of Ontario, where some colleges heavily depend on fees from international students.

Businesses, particularly in Surrey, which boasts a significant South Asian population, express concerns about an uncertain business climate.

As diplomatic tensions persist, the Canadian government faces the challenge of navigating potential repercussions on various fronts, including visa processing, education, and business relationships with India.