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South Asian Update
South Asian Update

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India to reopen visa services for Canadians

 Published: 13:03, 26 October 2023

India to reopen visa services for Canadians

The High Commission of India revealed that it will recommence visa services for Canadians, effective from October 26. This decision aims to alleviate tensions that had arisen in the aftermath of the murder of a Sikh separatist leader in Canada.

Last month, India suspended the issuance of new visas for Canadian citizens and urged Canada to downsize its diplomatic presence. 

This action was prompted by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's mention of credible evidence suggesting a potential link between Indian agents and the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian citizen killed in a Vancouver suburb in June. In response, Canada withdrew 41 of its diplomats from India. India vehemently denies any involvement in the shooting incident.
In the recent announcement, the Indian High Commission stated that it had carefully reviewed the security situation and considered the measures taken by the Canadian authorities, which were not explicitly enumerated. In light of these considerations, India has decided to resume the issuance of various visa categories.
The resumption of visa services includes standard entry visas, as well as visas for business, medical purposes, and conferences. This move is expected to promote smoother interactions between the two countries and enhance diplomatic relations.

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