India Resumes Visa Services for Canadians in Select Categories
India Resumes Visa Services for Canadians in Select Categories
India has announced the resumption of visa services for Canadian citizens in specific categories, marking a significant step toward normalizing diplomatic relations between the two nations. This decision comes a month after the suspension of visa services due to heightened tensions between India and Canada.
The Indian High Commission in Canada disclosed that, “After a thorough assessment of the security situation, which considers recent Canadian measures in this regard, it has been decided to resume visa services for the following categories effective from October 26, 2023: (a) Entry visa, (b) Business visa, (c) Medical visa, and (d) Conference visa.”
The official statement also affirmed that emergency situations will continue to be addressed by the High Commission and the Consulates General, just as they have been during the suspension.
The visa services suspension, initiated on September 21, was a result of escalated diplomatic tensions between the two nations. The tensions had erupted after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made allegations of Indian involvement in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in June of that year. Subsequently, both countries engaged in tit-for-tat expulsions of diplomats, further escalating the situation.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar recently shed light on the reasons behind the visa suspension. He stated that the relationship between the two countries was passing through a “difficult phase,” and the safety and security of Indian diplomats in Canada were the primary concern that led to the temporary halt in visa issuance. Jaishankar also expressed optimism about the possibility of resuming visa services for Canadians “very soon” if there are signs of progress in ensuring the safety of Indian diplomats in Canada.
