India reviews visa policy amidst ongoing showdown between India and Canada, tension escalates

Amidst the diplomatic row between Canada and India, the Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson of India, Arindam Bagchi confirmed the visa suspension for Canadian citizens on Thursday. In addition, he stated that Canadian citizens living in any part of the world are not liable to apply for an Indian visa. Bagchi further stated that Trudeau’s allegations are ‘politically driven’, and no pertinent information centering on the said allegations has been passed down to India.

“A Canadian citizen would not be able to apply for an Indian visa even if they are living in another country…All categories of visas are suspended. The issue is not about travel to India but the issue is incitement of violence and inaction by the Canadian government. Those who have valid visas and OCI cards can travel freely,” said Bagchi in tandem with the notification that was issued earlier today.

As an extension of the visa suspension, the e-visa services will also remain suspended. The MEA spokesperson said, “We are aware of the security threats being faced by our high commission and consulates in Canada. This has disrupted their normal functioning. Accordingly, our high commissions and consulates are temporarily unable to process visa applications. We will be reviewing the situation on a regular basis.”

BLS International posted a notice on their website earlier today, pertaining to the visa suspension. “Important notice from Indian Mission: Due to operational reasons, with effect from 21 September 2023, Indian visa services have been suspended till further notice. Please keep checking the BLS website for further updates”, reads the notice.

India's decision comes only days after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made major claims linking India to the death of Khalistani extremist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who was killed outside a temple in British Columbia in June, sparking a large diplomatic storm.​