India suspends visa services for Canada temporarily - All you need to know about Study Abroad Canada

India has recently announced thetemporary suspension of visa servicesfor Canadian citizens in response to an escalating diplomatic crisis with Canada. This move has significant implications for Indian students studying abroad in Canada. The decision was made following a dispute between the two countries over Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's allegations linking India to the extra-judicial slaying of a Sikh separatist.

The relationship between the two nations soured following Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's accusation of Indian involvement in the assassination of a Khalistani separatist within Canada.

Due to operational reasons, BLS International, the company responsible for managing theIndian visa offices in Canada, has temporarily halted all Canada visa services. This information was conveyed through a notice posted on their website. Please note that this suspension is indefinite, and no specific timeline has been provided for resumption of services.

India's foreign ministry spokesperson, Arindam Bagchi,has suspended services at the country's high commission and consulates in Canada. During a media briefing, Bagchi cited reasons such as "incitement to violence," "inaction by Canadian authorities," and "disruption of our functioning" as contributing factors. This decision highlights India's concerns over the current situation and its impact on diplomatic operations between the two nations.

What caused India to suspend issuing of new visas?

On Thursday, the Ministry of External Affairs expressed their concern about the incitement of violence, lack of action from Canadian authorities, and the impact on the functioning of consulates. As a result, they have decided to temporarily halt visa services in Canada. The situation will be reassessed regularly to determine when services can resume.

Who will be affected?

The suspension of visa services will impact all Canadians planning to visit India without a visa. This includes Canadian nationals, tourists, business travellers, and students planning to travel to India.

In addition, the travel plans of relatives and family members of Indian citizens who intend to visit India to see their loved ones will be impacted.

What will be the Impact on Canadian Travelers?

This suspension will directly affect Canadian travellers planning to visit India soon. They must postpone or cancel their travel plans until the visa services are reinstated. Canadians should stay updated with the latest information provided by the Indian Embassy or Consulate in Canada.

During this suspension period, Canadian travellers who need to visit India for essential reasons may explore alternative visa options. These include applying for an e-visa or seeking assistance from the Indian Embassy or Consulate to explore any provisions for emergency visas. However, it is essential to note that such options may have specific requirements and limitations.

What is the current situation for Indians in Canada?

Due to the rise in anti-India activities and politically supported hate crimes, India has warned its citizens residing in Canada or planning to travel there, urging them to exercise extreme caution.

Can individuals from India travel to Canada?

At present, indeed. Canada has not yet placed any restrictions on Indian travellers entering the country; therefore, Indians can travel to Canada.

Will the suspension of visas affect Canadians residing in India?

No, their existing visas are still valid. They have the option to request a visa renewal by the regulations that govern their specific visa categories.

How long is the suspension expected to remain?

Despite the temporary suspension of visa services by the government, a specific timeline has yet to be mentioned. It is anticipated that this suspension will continue until there are changes in the political and diplomatic relations between the two countries. The situation will be reviewed regularly

As a result of this suspension, Indian students who were applying for visas to study in Canada will experience delays and uncertainties. The suspension affects new visa applications and those seeking visa renewals or extensions. Until further notice, Indian visa services will remain unavailable.

Canada is home to one of the most significant Indian communities globally, with people of Indian descent making up 3 percent of the country's population.

With a population of over 1.6 million people of Indian descent, more than 700,000 non-resident Indians (NRIs) and a Sikh community surpassing 770,000 individuals (which accounts for approximately 2 percent of the total population), the country boasts a substantial Indian presence. Notably, India has held the position as Canada's primary source country for international students since 2018.

2022年,加拿大欢迎印度indiv超过118000iduals as permanent residents, making them the highest number of legal immigrants on the list. Additionally, Canadian universities are home to more than 320,000 students from India who are pursuing their education.