🇮🇳 India visa for Canadians

India offers a 30-day visa-on-arrival for a handful of countries. For most others, you'll need to apply in advance. Don't expect to just show up and get a stamp for a year.

Who Gets In Easy, Who Doesn't

Most Westerners, including citizens of the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and EU countries, aren't eligible for visa-on-arrival in India. You'll need to apply for an e-Visa or a regular sticker visa before you travel. The e-Visa is the easiest route for most tourists and remote workers. It’s usually processed within 72 hours, though it's wise to apply at least a week ahead of your planned arrival. You can apply for a 30-day, 1-year, or 5-year e-Visa.

A small group of countries, including Maldives, Nepal, and Bhutan, have visa-free access for a certain duration, typically 90 days. Check the latest list on the Indian Bureau of Immigration website before you book anything. Everyone else needs to secure a visa beforehand.

How Long Can You Actually Stay?

The standard tourist e-Visa allows for a 30-day stay with double entry. This means you can leave and re-enter India once within that 30-day period. If you get the 1-year or 5-year e-Visa, you're allowed multiple entries, but you can only stay for a maximum of 180 days continuously in any single visit. This is a big gotcha. Overstaying can lead to fines, deportation, and future entry bans. Fines can be around $30 USD per day†, and you might find yourself banned from re-entering India for several years. Always check your entry and exit stamps carefully.

Working Remotely on a Tourist Stamp?

This is where things get murky. Officially, you are not allowed to work in India on a tourist visa. The Indian government has a specific "e-Worker Visa" for those intending to take up employment. However, enforcement for remote workers is inconsistent. Many digital nomads work on tourist visas, using co-working spaces and cafes without issue. The key is to avoid any activities that could be construed as "local employment" – like setting up a local business or being formally hired by an Indian company. Authorities are more likely to question you if you're staying for very long periods or engaging in business activities that compete with local industries. For extended stays or if you plan to do anything more than simple remote work, research the appropriate visa.

What's New with Indian Visas?

India has been steadily expanding its e-Visa system. The biggest change recently was the reintroduction and expansion of the 5-year e-Visa for many nationalities in early 2024†. They've also streamlined the application process, making it more user-friendly. Fees can fluctuate, so always check the official e-Visa portal for the most current pricing. Be aware that specific visa categories or nationalities might be subject to temporary suspensions or changes based on geopolitical situations or public health concerns. Always consult the official Indian Bureau of Immigration website for the absolute latest information before making travel plans.