Canadians of Indian descent are facing new challenges in travelling to their home country, as the Indian government has suspended its e-visa program and is now requiring all Indian-born travellers to surrender their Indian passports in order to apply for a regular visa.
The new rules are causing inconvenience for many Canadian Indians, who are now having to wait for weeks or even months to receive their surrender certificates. In the meantime, some are being forced to cancel travel plans or pay high fees for emergency visas.
The Surrender Certificate Requirement
To facilitate their travel to India, Indian-born travellers now need to obtain “surrender certificates.” These certificates are issued when an Indian passport is handed in upon acquiring Canadian citizenship.
The surrender certificate has become a crucial document for obtaining an entry visa to India and applying for an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card.
Suspension of the E-Visa Program
The urgency to secure surrender certificates comes in the wake of the Indian government’s suspension of its e-visa program last month.
As a result, Indian-born Canadians must submit surrender certificates to apply for a visa and the OCI card, which has left many individuals scrambling to meet these new requirements.
Impact on Travel Plans
Sanjay Verma, Indian High Commissioner in Canada, has confirmed a surge in OCI applications across the country. Consequently, processing times for these applications are expected to be longer than usual.
Verma emphasized the need for early visa applications, stating, “Visa-related decisions are sovereign actions of issuing countries. My advice to all Canadian citizens eligible to apply for an Indian visa is to submit their applications well in advance and not to buy travel tickets without having an Indian visa in hand.”
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Indian High Commissioner’s Assurance
Indian High Commissioner Sanjay Verma reassured the community, saying, “We try to help the OCI applicants in the best possible ways. If they meet the documentation requirements, the process mentioned can be followed.”
Furthermore, the Indian High Commissioner in Canada advises all Canadian citizens eligible to apply for an Indian visa to submit their applications well in advance and not to buy travel tickets without having an Indian visa in hand. It also advises Canadian citizens of Indian descent to consider applying for OCI Cards for their future journeys.
FAQs Answered
What are the new visa rules?
Indian-born travellers to India are now required to surrender their Indian passports when they apply for a Canadian passport. This new rule was implemented on September 1, 2023.
Why do I need to surrender my Indian passport?
The Indian government has suspended its e-visa program for Canadians, so all Canadian passport holders must now apply for a regular visa to enter India. In order to apply for a visa, you must surrender your Indian passport.
How do I surrender my Indian passport?
To surrender your Indian passport, you must visit a BLS International Visa and Passport Application Centre in Canada. You can book an appointment online or in person.
What happens after I surrender my Indian passport?
Once you surrender your Indian passport, you will receive a surrender certificate. You will need this certificate to apply for a visa to enter India.
How long does it take to get a surrender certificate?
It takes approximately 6-8 weeks to receive a surrender certificate.
What if I need to travel to India before I receive my surrender certificate?
If you need to travel to India before you receive your surrender certificate, you may be able to apply for a visa on an emergency basis. You will need to provide documentation to support your request for an emergency visa.
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