In recent times, the relationship between India and Canada has not been without its complexities, with diplomatic issues occasionally making headlines.
However, amidst the backdrop of this diplomatic engagement, Canada continues to process visa applications from Indian citizens, covering various categories, including temporary resident visas for students and workers, as well as permanent resident and family-class sponsorship applications.
Canada Visa Processing Times in India
As of September 28, 2023, here are the average processing times for Indian applicants in five different visa and permit categories. These times are not only crucial for those seeking to visit or live in Canada but also reflect the evolving dynamics of the India-Canada relationship.
Work Permits and Visas
Work permits and visas allow foreign individuals to work and reside in Canada temporarily. Understanding the distinction between a visa and a permit is crucial for immigration purposes.
| Immigration Stream | Processing Time |
| Work permit (applying from India) | 9 weeks |
| Work permit (applying inside Canada – initial and extension) | 128 days online; 47 days on paper |
Must Read: India Suspends Visa Services in Canada Until Further Notice
Study Permits and Visas
Study permits enable foreign nationals to study and reside in Canada, often with provisions for part-time work during their studies. It’s essential to grasp the differences between study permits and visas.
| Immigration Stream | Processing Time |
| Study permit (applying from India) | 8 weeks |
| Study permit (applying inside Canada) | 5 weeks |
| Study permit extension | 75 days online; 91 days on paper |
| Student Direct Stream (assuming all criteria are met) | 20 days |
Visitor Visas
Visitor visas are required for Indian citizens visiting Canada. They do not grant work or study privileges but can be extended through a visitor record.
| Immigration Stream | Processing Time |
| Visitor visa (applying from India) | 31 days |
| Visitor visa (applying from inside Canada) | 16 days online; 47 days on paper |
| Visitor extension (visitor record) | 55 days online; 102 days on paper |
Economic Class Immigration
Economic class immigration encompasses various programs, including Express Entry managed programs and provincial nominee programs, granting Canadian permanent residence to approved candidates.
| Immigration Stream | Processing Time |
| Atlantic Immigration Program | 6 months |
| Canadian Experience Class | 5 months |
| Home Child Care Provider Pilot (varies by work experience) | Depends on the time of application and work experience |
| Home Support Worker Pilot (varies by work experience) | Self-Employed Persons Program (federal) |
| Provincial Nominees (online through Express Entry) | 8 months |
| Provincial Nominees (non-Express Entry) | 16 months |
| Self-Employed persons Program (federal) | 52 months |
| Quebec Business Class | 61 months |
| Federal Skilled Worker | 6 months |
| Federal Skilled Trades (data not available) | Not enough data |
| Quebec Skilled Worker | 15 months |
| Start-up Visa | 37 months |
Family Sponsorship Immigration
Canadian permanent residents and citizens of Indian origin can sponsor family members to come to Canada through various programs.
| Immigration Stream | Processing Time |
| Spouse or common-law partner living in Canada | 10 months outside Quebec; 25 months in Quebec |
| Spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner living in Canada | 13 months outside Quebec; 24 months in Quebec |
| Super Visa (Parents or Grandparents living in India) | 53 days |
| Dependent Child (living in India) | 10 months |
| Parents and Grandparents Program | 21 months outside Quebec; 46 months in Quebec |
| Adopted child or other relative (living in India) | 22 months |
How to Get Your Canada Visa Faster?
Can’t wait to visit or move to Canada? Here are some tips to help you get your visa processed quickly and efficiently.
1. Apply Early. The earlier you apply, the more time the visa office will have to process your application. This is especially important for popular destinations or during peak travel times.
2. Complete your application carefully and accurately. Make sure to read the instructions carefully and double-check your work before submitting your application. Incomplete or inaccurate applications may be delayed or rejected.
3. Provide all required documentation. Be sure to include all of the documentation required for your visa application, such as a passport, passport photos, and proof of funds. You may also need to provide additional documentation, such as a letter of invitation from a friend or family member in the country you are visiting.
4. Pay your visa application fee on time. Visa application fees are non-refundable, so it is important to pay them on time to avoid any delays.
5. Follow up with the visa office. If you have not heard back from the visa office within the expected processing time, you can follow up with them to check the status of your application. However, be sure not to follow up too often, as this can delay the processing of your application.
It is important to note that there is no guarantee that you will get your visa faster by following these tips. However, following these tips can help to increase your chances of getting your visa processed more quickly.
Conclusion
These processing times serve as a guide for Indian applicants seeking various visas and permits to enter and stay in Canada. Keep in mind that these times are subject to change and may vary depending on individual circumstances.
For the most up-to-date information, it is recommended to visit the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) official visa processing time tool.
While diplomatic matters may ebb and flow, the opportunities for Indians to explore Canada remain a significant aspect of the evolving India-Canada relationship.
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