Are you a Canadian citizen planning to travel to India? With the current global situation, it’s essential to stay informed about entry requirements and health guidelines before embarking on your journey. Whether you’re visiting for tourism, business or personal reasons, this article will guide who can travel to India from Canada and what measures are in place for your safety. Get ready to pack your bags as we take a closer look at everything you need to know before travelling from Canada to India!
Current Status of Travel to India from Canada
The current status of travel to India from Canada is subject to change due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Commercial flights are operating between India and Canada under air bubble arrangements.
However, it’s important to note that travellers must comply with entry requirements and follow health guidelines set forth by the Indian government and local authorities. The situation can change rapidly, so it’s crucial to stay up-to-date on any updates or changes.
Canada has also issued a Level 3 Travel Advisory for India due to high levels of COVID-19 cases in the country. Travellers should exercise caution when planning their trip and consider postponing non-essential travel until conditions improve.
It’s recommended that travellers check with airlines before booking tickets as many have implemented flexible policies for cancellations or rescheduling due to uncertainty around international travel restrictions. Stay informed about any developments related to your itinerary as you prepare for your journey from Canada to India.
Who Can Travel to India From Canada?
India is a country of vibrant colours, diverse cultures, and fascinating traditions that attracts millions of tourists every year. However, with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and travel restrictions in place, many people wonder if they can travel to India from Canada.
As per the current status of travel to India from Canada, it is allowed only for certain categories of travellers. This includes Indian nationals (including those holding OCI cards), their spouses or children who hold Canadian passports or visas, and diplomats or officials assigned to diplomatic missions or consular offices in India.
Additionally, travellers who are eligible for medical emergencies such as treatment at reputed hospitals in India may also be granted permission to enter the country subject to certain conditions.
It’s important to note that all foreign travellers arriving in India must have a negative RT-PCR test report conducted within 72 hours before departure and undergo thermal screening upon arrival. They must also comply with quarantine guidelines as mandated by the Indian government depending on their duration of stay and other factors.
Entry Requirements for Travelers to India
Travellers from Canada who wish to travel to India need to ensure that they have a valid passport and visa.
- The Indian government has recently introduced an e-Visa facility, which makes it easier for travellers to apply for their visas online. It is important to note that the validity of the e-Visa is 60 days from the date of arrival in India.
- In addition, all travellers must also have a negative RT-PCR test report conducted within 72 hours before they departed from Canada. This requirement applies even if you are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Children under the age of 5 years are exempted from this requirement.
- It is recommended that travellers keep a printed copy or digital copy of their RT-PCR test report with them at all times during their stay in India as it may be required at various checkpoints.
- Furthermore, upon arrival in India, all travellers will undergo thermal screening and fill out a self-declaration form stating their health status and travel history. In case of symptoms suggestive of COVID-19 are found during thermal screening, passengers would be sent for testing via Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) kits along with necessary medical support facilities.
It’s essential for Canadian citizens travelling to India to comply with these entry requirements before embarking on their journey.
Health and Safety Guidelines for Travelers to India
Travelling to India from Canada can be an exciting and enriching experience, but it’s important to consider the health and safety guidelines before embarking on your journey. India is a country with diverse cultural experiences, stunning natural landscapes, and delicious cuisine, but it also presents some unique challenges for travellers.
One of the most important things you can do before travelling to India is to check if there are any necessary vaccinations recommended or required by Canadian authorities. Some common immunizations include hepatitis A & B, typhoid fever, rabies vaccine as well as antimalarial medication.
In addition to vaccinations or medications that may be required before travel, visitors should take precautions against illnesses such as diarrhea and food poisoning by only eating at hygienic restaurants or street food vendors that look clean. You should avoid drinking tap water at all costs unless it has been boiled beforehand.
It’s also crucial for travellers in India to carry appropriate medical supplies like insect repellent sprays/lotions (bug bites), sunblock creams (UV protection) along with personal hygiene items such as hand sanitizer/wipes because these basic supplies could go a long way towards maintaining good health while exploring the country.
Transportation and Accommodation Considerations
When it comes to travelling to India from Canada, transportation and accommodation considerations are two of the most important factors for a successful trip.
- Firstly, let’s talk about transportation. Many international airlines offer direct flights from Canadian cities such as Toronto and Vancouver to major Indian cities like Delhi or Mumbai.
- Once you arrive in India, transportation options vary depending on your destination. Public transit is available in larger cities like Delhi and Mumbai, while taxis or private cars may be necessary for travel in more rural areas. It’s important to do research beforehand to determine the best mode of transportation for your specific needs.
- Accommodation options in India range from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels and resorts. When choosing where to stay, consider location, amenities offered, and safety measures taken by the hotel or hostel. It’s also recommended that travellers book accommodations well in advance of their trip to ensure availability during peak travel times.
Making informed decisions regarding transportation and accommodation can greatly enhance your experience travelling from Canada to India.
Alternatives to Traveling to India
If travelling to India from Canada is not an option for you at the moment, several alternatives can provide a similar experience.
- One alternative is exploring local Indian communities in Canada. Many cities have vibrant Indian neighbourhoods where you can immerse yourself in the culture through food, music, and festivals. You may also find authentic Indian shops selling traditional clothing and goods.
- Another alternative is attending virtual events or tours of India. With technology advancements, many tour companies now offer virtual tours of popular destinations in India with experienced guides sharing knowledge about the history and cultural significance.
- You can also try cooking or taking a cooking class to learn how to prepare delicious Indian cuisine in your kitchen. Several online platforms offer affordable classes taught by professional chefs who will guide you in creating classic dishes such as biryani and butter chicken.
If all else fails, consider reading books set in India or watching movies filmed in the country. This way, you can still learn more about its diverse cultures and appreciate its beauty while staying safe at home.
Conclusion
Travelling from Canada to India is still restricted as the COVID-19 pandemic persists. Those who are eligible for travel must adhere to Indian government regulations and health protocols, as well as follow extra safety measures such as wearing a mask in public places and observing social distancing. As you plan your trip, virtual tours or postponing your journey may be viable alternatives. Both Canadian and Indian authorities may issue changes or updates regarding the situation, so it is wise to stay informed for a smooth and safe experience.
FAQs on who can travel to India from Canada
1. Who can enter India from Canada?
As long as a person has a current passport, OCI, or visa that was received lately from the Consulate, they are permitted to travel to India. The traveller should also make sure they have a transit or visit visa for the country they are passing through in route, if necessary.
2. Is visiting visa open to India?
Since the India tourist e-Visa is not a single entry visa, the answer is that numerous entries are permitted. A multiple-entry travel permit with a 90-day stay per visit is the India e-Visa for tourism. The double-entry tourist visa allows for two entrances into India and a 30-day maximum stay.
3. What are the new visa rules for India?
In addition to the increase in the number of days you can stay, the tourist/business visas now come with Multiple Entry, and the medical visa comes with Triple Entry. The 180-day per-entrance stay limit on the India Electronic Visa has been increased from the prior 30-day limit.
4. How long can a Canadian stay in India?
A Canadian passport bearer can enter India more than once with the India Tourist e-Visa. 365 days from the date of issue, valid. allows Canadians to remain for a maximum of 180 days.
