Canada announced on June 5 that Indian citizens can now receive multiple-entry visas valid for up to 10 years from July 1 2026. The policy applies to first-time and renewal applicants meeting standard criteria with processing times unchanged at 15-30 days. Officials cited a 40 percent rise in Indian visitor numbers last year as the main driver.
Previously limited to five years the extension matches similar offers already given to Chinese and Brazilian nationals. Immigration Minister Marc Miller confirmed the update during a virtual press conference with Indian counterparts. The move follows the 2025 Canada-India tourism agreement aiming for one million annual visitors by 2028.
Background shows Canada processed 450000 Indian visa applications in 2025 with approval rates above 85 percent. The policy builds on post-pandemic recovery efforts that saw visitor numbers rebound to 92 percent of 2019 levels. It also responds to competition from Australia and the UK which already offer longer validity options.
What this means for you
Apply through the official IRCC portal before your next trip to secure the full 10-year validity. Book flights and hotels with flexible dates since re-entry is now easier without repeated applications. Avoid third-party agents charging extra fees as direct submissions remain free for the visa itself.
Carry printed confirmation of the new visa label and keep digital copies on your phone. Families should apply together to maintain synchronized expiry dates. Monitor your passport validity since the visa cannot exceed passport expiry.
Longer validity reduces administrative hassle and costs for frequent business and leisure travellers between Canada and India over the coming decade.