E-Visa services for Canadians resumed by India after 2 month hiatus

India has finally resumed e-visa services for Canadians after it suspended the services in September until further notice.

Suspension Amid Diplomatic Strain

In a move reflective of the recent diplomatic tensions between India and Canada, the Indian Mission in Canada had abruptly suspended visa services for Canadian nationals back in September. The suspension, officially attributed to operational reasons, left many Canadians in uncertainty.

Resumption After Selective Categories Reinstated in October

After nearly two months of halted visa services, sources reveal that India has now resumed e-visa services for Canadian nationals. This decision follows a partial reinstatement of visa services in October, which included certain categories while excluding visas for tourism, employment, education, filmmaking, missionary work, and journalism.

Timely Reopening Ahead of G20 Leaders' Summit

The timing of the visa services resumption is notable, occurring just hours before Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's expected participation in the virtual G20 Leaders' Summit. Trudeau's presence at the summit marks a significant diplomatic engagement, especially in light of the strained relations between the two nations.

Face-off Between Leaders Amid Unsubstantiated Allegations

The G20 Leaders' Summit is anticipated to bring Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau face to face, albeit virtually, with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the first time since the diplomatic rift. The strained relations were exacerbated by Trudeau's unverified accusations of a potential Indian link to the killing of pro-Khalistani figure Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Surrey, British Columbia.

India's Stance on Investigation and Lack of Evidence

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, addressing the accusations made by Canada, reiterated that India is not dismissing the possibility of an investigation. However, he emphasized that Canada has yet to provide any evidence to substantiate its claims. During a recent event in London, Jaishankar revealed that discussions with his Canadian counterpart Melanie Joly included a request for evidence to support the allegations. To date, no such evidence has been shared by the Canadian authorities.

As India resumes full-fledged visa services for all categories, the diplomatic landscape between the two nations remains intricate, with the G20 Leaders' Summit serving as a pivotal moment for both leaders to navigate the complexities of their relationship.

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