Canada Continues Visa Processing for Indian Nationals Amid Diplomatic Dispute.
- Vikrant Gungash
- Sep 25, 2023
- 3 min read
By Jessica Thakur
September 25, 2023

A recent diplomatic rift between Canada and India has cast a shadow over their relations, following a dispute involving the assassination of a prominent Canadian-Sikh leader in British Columbia. The disagreement between Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has raised concerns about the impact on visa processing for Indian nationals in Canada.
On Thursday, September 21, BLS, India's visa processing centers in Canada, including locations in Toronto, Ottawa, and Vancouver, temporarily suspended services, citing operational reasons. This development followed the escalating tension between the two nations.
Prime Minister Trudeau, in New York earlier this week, was questioned about whether Canada would reciprocate by halting visa processing for Indian nationals. He emphasized Canada's commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring the safety of its citizens. Thus far, there is no indication that Canada intends to halt the processing of visas for Indian nationals, and it continues to accept new visa applications as usual.
Despite the diplomatic dispute, processing times for visas for Indian nationals seeking entry to Canada have not been affected. Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) maintain their commitment to processing 80% of visa applications within service standards, irrespective of the applicant's nationality.
Canada's Reputation for Safety
India has issued a travel advisory for its citizens traveling to Canada, citing safety concerns. However, Canadian Immigration Minister Marc Miller has urged Indian travelers to remain calm, asserting that Canada is widely recognized as a safe country.
Canada consistently ranks among the safest nations globally. According to the most recent Global Peace Index, Canada secured the 11th position in 2023. Additionally, a 2022 report by the Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE) highlighted Canada's unique reputation for safety and tolerance, making it a top choice for international students.
Despite a similar warning from the Indian government in September 2022, the CBIE report revealed that 40% of international students in Canada were of Indian origin. In 2022, a total of 800,000 international students studied in Canada, signifying that approximately 320,000 Indian students were enrolled during the previous academic year.
Significant Indian Presence in Canada
India stands as the largest source country for immigration to Canada. In 2022, a total of 118,095 Indians obtained permanent residence status in Canada, with 59,503 Indians transitioning to Canadian citizenship from permanent residency.
Canada maintains ambitious immigration targets as outlined in the 2023-2025 Immigration Levels Plan. The nation aspires to welcome over 500,000 permanent residents annually by the end of 2025. Although the next plan is expected by November 1 this year, Minister Miller has indicated that he does not anticipate a reduction in these targets.
Despite the diplomatic tensions, Canada's commitment to processing visas for Indian nationals remains unchanged, emphasizing its dedication to welcoming immigrants and international students, while reassuring the public of the country's continued safety and tolerance.

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