India-Canada dispute: Visa applications in limbo; Indian students are also worried

By: 600011 On: Oct 17, 2024, 3:33 PM

 

Diplomatic dispute between India and Canada may delay processing of visa applications. Diplomatic experts said visa processing is likely to be limited and delayed if key diplomats are expelled or recalled by both countries. The Ministry of External Affairs had stated that India reserves the right to take further steps in the context of the dispute.

With India expelling six diplomats, the visa processing system and staff strength will be limited at the Canadian Embassy in Delhi. This will lead to a reduction in the number of visas issued. Delay in visa process will severely affect Indian students going for higher studies and work in Canada.

Kuldeep Bansal, an immigration consultant, says that this time is expected to double if normal visa processing takes four to six weeks. He also suggested that those planning to travel in December and January should apply for visas now. Bansal added that the ongoing India-Canada dispute will affect all applications like tourist visas, work permits, student visas and spousal applications.