Canada visa for Indian passport holders

Indian nationals need a Temporary Resident Visa (visitor visa), applied for online through Canada's official immigration portal.

Visa requiredTypically up to 6 months per visit, as decided by the border officer

Sources Documents How to apply Good to know FAQs Plan your trip

Authority first

Verify the rule with the destination government

Deal4Flight turns published requirements into a planning checklist. The official immigration or embassy source remains authoritative and should be checked again before booking and departure.

Open official portal

Passport validity

Valid for the intended duration of stay

Stay duration

Typically up to 6 months per visit, as decided by the border officer

Government fee

Visa fee set by IRCC (check current rate)

Processing

Processing times vary widely — check current IRCC estimates before applying

Official information and traveller support

Official portal

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)

Documents required

Valid passport with blank pages
Digital photograph meeting IRCC specifications
Proof of financial means
Proof of ties to India (employment, property, family)
Travel itinerary and invitation letter, if applicable

Step-by-step: how to apply

1
Create an IRCC online account
Set up an account on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) portal.
2
Complete the visitor visa application
Fill in personal, travel and financial details online.
3
Upload supporting documents
Submit scanned copies of your passport, photo and financial proof.
4
Provide biometrics
Book an appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) for fingerprints and photo.
5
Pay the visa fee
Pay online as part of the application submission.
6
Track your application and await a decision
Processing times vary — check your account regularly for updates.

Entry readiness

What to verify before booking and boarding

Entry eligibility is broader than the visa itself. Use these checks alongside the destination's official portal and your airline's travel-document guidance.

Trip purpose and duration

Confirm that visa required conditions cover your real reason for visiting Canada and your complete intended stay.

Names and passport details

Match the booking, application and passport exactly. Check expiry, blank pages and physical condition.

Onward travel and accommodation

Keep return or onward tickets, stay details and host information accessible offline when required.

Transit and arrival formalities

Check every connection for transit permission, baggage recheck, terminal change, health or digital arrival forms.

Avoid delays and refusal

Common issues travellers can prevent

Using an unofficial application site that adds fees or captures personal data.
Submitting an unclear scan, unsuitable photograph or inconsistent passport details.
Assuming a valid visa removes the need for onward travel, funds or accommodation evidence.
Ignoring transit rules because the traveller does not plan to leave the airport.

Good to know

• Apply well ahead of your travel date, as processing times can extend to several weeks or months.
• A visitor visa doesn't guarantee entry — the final decision is made by a border services officer at the port of entry.

Frequently asked questions

Can I apply for a Canada visa without an agent?

Yes, applications can be submitted directly through the IRCC online portal without an agent.

How long is a Canada visitor visa valid?

It can be valid for up to 10 years or until passport expiry, with each individual visit capped as decided at entry.

Does a Canada visa or entry exemption guarantee admission?

No. The airline checks whether you appear eligible to travel, while Canada immigration makes the final entry decision. Keep your passport, onward travel, accommodation and any requested supporting evidence ready.

Should I book non-refundable flights before confirming Canada entry requirements?

Avoid non-refundable commitments until you understand the applicable entry route, document requirements and processing time, unless you accept the risk or an application specifically requires a reservation.

This guide is general information for Indian passport holders, not legal or immigration advice. Visa rules, fees, documents and processing times change often — always confirm current requirements on the Canada government's official immigration or embassy website, or through a licensed visa agent, before applying or booking non-refundable travel.