In a pivotal development, India has reinstated its visa services in Canada, catering to several crucial categories of travellers. This decision comes after a careful assessment of the security situation and in light of recent Canadian measures.
The High Commission of India in Ottawa, Canada, announced that visa services for specific categories will recommence on October 26, 2023.
Resumption of Visa Services
The High Commission of India in Ottawa, in conjunction with its Consulates General in Toronto and Vancouver, had temporarily halted visa services in September due to safety and security concerns.
In a statement, the High Commission of India in Ottawa said that the decision to resume visa services was taken after a thorough assessment of the security situation in Canada, and in consideration of recent Canadian measures on this matter.
The High Commission also said that its Consulates General in Toronto and Vancouver will resume visa services on October 26, 2023.
The latest Press Release on resumption of visa service may be seen here. @MEAIndia @IndianDiplomacy @PIB_India @DDNewslive @ANI @WIONews @TOIIndiaNews @htTweets @cgivancouver @IndiainToronto pic.twitter.com/iwKIgF2qin
— India in Canada (@HCI_Ottawa) October 25, 2023
Categories Open for Visa Applications
The categories now open for visa applications include:
- Entry Visas
- Business Visas
- Medical Visas
- Conference Visas
This development is a significant step towards facilitating travel and trade relations between India and Canada.
Must Read: Canada Visa Processing in India: FAQs, Advice, and Tips to Avoid Delays
Safety Considerations and Diplomatic Relations
The resumption of visa services was a topic of discussion just two days ago when Dr S Jaishankar, Minister for External Affairs, revealed that the decision hinged on the safety of Indian diplomats in Canada. He stressed the importance of progress in ensuring their security, expressing his hope that the resumption of visa services would occur swiftly.
“If we see progress there, I would very much like to resume the issue of visas. My hope would be that it would be something which should happen very very soon,” Jaishankar stated.
Why had India suspended visa services in Canada?
India suspended visa services in Canada in September due to safety and security concerns for its diplomats. The decision came after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged a “potential” involvement of Indian agents in the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in June.
India had dismissed Canada’s concerns and requested Ottawa to reduce its diplomatic presence in the country.
What does the resumption of visa services mean?
The resumption of visa services is a positive development for both India and Canada. It will allow for the movement of people between the two countries for essential purposes, such as business, medical treatment, and conferences.
The resumption of visa services is also a sign of improving relations between the two countries. India and Canada have close ties, and both sides have expressed their commitment to working together to strengthen the relationship.
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