{"metadata":{"generated":{"timestamp":1710875633,"date":"2024-03-19 15:13:53"}},"data":{"country-iso":"IN","advisory-state":1,"has-advisory-warning":0,"has-regional-advisory":1,"has-content":1,"update-metadata":"Editorial change","eng":{"name":"India","url-slug":"india","geo-group":"Asia","flag":null,"friendly-date":"March 13, 2024 14:58 EDT","advisory-text":"Exercise a high degree of caution (with regional advisories)","recent-updates":"The Health section was updated - travel health information (Public Health Agency of Canada)","advisories":"
Exercise a high degree of caution<\/a> in India due to the threat of terrorist attacks throughout the country.<\/p><\/div> Exercise a high degree of caution<\/a> in and around Bengaluru, Chandigarh and Mumbai. Consular services in-person are temporarily unavailable in those cities or surrounding areas. If you need consular services, contact the High Commission of Canada in India, located in New Delhi. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre<\/a> in Ottawa. <\/p><\/div> Avoid non-essential travel<\/a> to the following states due to the risk of terrorism and insurgency: <\/p> <\/p><\/div> Avoid all travel<\/a> to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir due to the unpredictable security situation. There is a threat of terrorism, militancy, civil unrest and kidnapping. <\/p> This advisory excludes travelling to or within the Union Territory of Ladakh.<\/p><\/p> <\/p><\/div> Avoid all travel<\/a> to areas within 10 km of the border with Pakistan in the following states due to the unpredictable security situation and presence of landmines and unexploded ordnance: <\/p> <\/p> This advisory excludes the Wagah border crossing.<\/p> <\/p><\/p> <\/p><\/div>","security":" Security situation <\/p><\/h3> In the context of recent developments in Canada and in India, there are calls for protests and some negative sentiment towards Canada in traditional media and on social media. Demonstrations, including anti-Canada protests, could occur and Canadians may be subjected to intimidation or harassment. In Delhi and the National Capital Region, you should keep a low profile with strangers, and not share your personal information with them. Avoid crowded areas, including public transportation. You should always travel with someone and inform a friend or a family member of your travel plans.<\/p> Consular services in person are temporarily unavailable in and around Bengaluru, Chandigarh and Mumbai. Consular services in person at the High Commission of Canada in New Delhi will remain available.<\/p><\/section> The security situation in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir is tense. There are high risks of violent protests, civil unrest and acts of terrorism and militancy.<\/p> Violent clashes between militants and security forces occur regularly. Terrorist attacks against security forces have led to civilian casualties. Further attacks could take place at any time. You could find yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time.<\/p> The Indian army has enhanced powers in this territory. Authorities may impose curfews and security restrictions on short notice.<\/p> The level of tension between India and Pakistan may change suddenly. You could experience difficulties when travelling between the two countries. You may be subject to scrutiny if officials from either country become aware that you have recently travelled to the other.<\/p> The security situation along the border with Pakistan, especially along the Line of Control (LoC), which separates the Union territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh from Pakistan-administered Kashmir, remains volatile. Cross-border gunfire and shelling are occurring sporadically along the LoC. The presence of landmines and unexploded ordnance also constitute a risk.<\/p> Although international travellers regularly use the Wagah border crossing linking Amritsar, India, to Lahore, Pakistan, it remains vulnerable to attack. Security measures are in place. You may experience long delays.<\/p> Several extremist and insurgent groups are active in the northeastern states of Assam and Manipur. They regularly target local government and security forces and may use various criminal activities to finance their activities.<\/p> Ethnic tensions in the State can also lead to conflict and civil unrest.<\/p> There is a threat of terrorism in India, particularly in:<\/p> Maoist extremist insurgents, known as Naxalites, are responsible for the majority of terrorist attacks in India. These groups are usually based in rural and forested areas within zones of concerns, as defined by the Government of India, which include:<\/p> Extremist and insurgent groups usually target government and security forces, and sometimes, trains and railway tracks. While tourists are not usually specifically targeted, bystanders could be affected. Be particularly vigilant during election periods and in the lead-up to, and during, religious holidays and times of national significance, such as:<\/p> Targets of terrorist attacks could include:<\/p> While in India:<\/p> Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, is common. Criminals may target foreigners, especially in major cities and tourist areas.<\/p> Petty crime frequently occurs on public transportation and overnight trains.<\/p> Serious crime against foreigners is less frequent, but incidents do occur.<\/p> Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:<\/p> Exercise caution in tourist areas and airports where scammers particularly target foreigners.<\/p> Scams involving the exportation of jewels, gemstones, carpets, and other items have occurred. Taxi drivers may approach you, offering money to export such items.<\/p> If you’re travelling to India to meet someone you’ve otherwise only met online, you may be the victim of a scam.<\/p> Be alert to attempts at fraud by persons who profess friendship or romantic interest over the internet.<\/p> Unsolicited emails offering attractive business or financial opportunities are most likely fraudulent.<\/p> Don’t travel to India to obtain restitution after losing money to a scam.<\/p> Overseas fraud<\/a><\/p> Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.<\/p> Crimes committed against women frequently occur in India. Foreign women are often the target of unwanted attention.<\/p> Staring, verbal abuse, groping, and other forms of sexual harassment can occur anywhere, including in tourist sites and areas. Attackers sometimes act as a group.<\/p> Reports of rape and assault against foreign women have increased. You should be particularly vigilant:<\/p> Local authorities may not always respond adequately to reports of sexual violence and harassment.<\/p> If you are the victim of a sexual assault, you should report it immediately to local authorities and the nearest office of the Government of Canada.<\/p> Advice for women travellers<\/a><\/p> Forced marriage affecting foreigners occurs, sometimes without the affected person’s prior knowledge or consent.<\/p> Some Canadians have been forced into marital arrangements and have been detained against their will. They have been subjected to threats, intimidation and violence by family members.<\/p> If you’re in Canada and you believe that you’re being forced to travel overseas to marry, you should call your local police for assistance.<\/p> If you’re in India and you believe that you’re being forced to marry, contact the nearest office of the Government of Canada. You may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre<\/a>.<\/p> Family members may retain passports to prevent victims from returning to Canada. Keep digital or physical copies of your travel documents in a safe place.<\/p> General information and advice about forced marriage<\/a><\/p> Protests in Manipur<\/p><\/h3> Violent demonstrations have been taking place in Manipur State since May 3, 2023, resulting in casualties. Protests have led to disruptions to traffic and public transportation. Curfews have been imposed in several districts and mobile and internet services may be limited.<\/p> If you are in Manipur:<\/p> Demonstrations, mass gatherings, general strikes, “bandh” or “hartal,” take place frequently. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.<\/p> Stampedes have occurred during mass gatherings, including religious ceremonies, and resulted in deaths and injuries.<\/p> Local authorities may impose curfews and other restrictions on short notice.<\/p> Mass gatherings (large-scale events)<\/a><\/p> Road conditions and road safety are poor throughout the country. Most roads, including major highways, are poorly maintained. There is severe traffic congestion. Driving conditions may be hazardous during the rainy season, and some roads can become impassable.<\/p> Drivers don’t respect traffic laws. They are often aggressive or reckless. Driving can be hazardous due to the presence of livestock or wandering cows, including in urban areas.<\/p> Fatal road accidents are frequent. They can lead to mob anger and assault.<\/p> India has an extensive passenger train system. Rail accidents are common, mostly due to poor maintenance. Thefts are frequent on certain train lines.<\/p> If you use a taxi, get it from a reputable hotel, an official taxi stand, or a trusted ride-sharing app. At the airport, use officially marked taxis or pre-paid transport services.<\/p> Maritime accidents occur regularly due to the overloading and poor maintenance of some vessels.<\/p> Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur in coastal waters. Mariners should take appropriate precautions.<\/p> Live piracy report<\/a> - International Maritime Bureau<\/p> Coastal waters can be dangerous. Riptides are common. Several drownings occur each year.<\/p> Beaches are not usually supervised by lifeguards. Many beaches don’t display warnings of dangerous conditions.<\/p> Water safety abroad<\/a><\/p> No commercial mountain rescue services are operating above 3,000 metres.<\/p> If you intend on trekking:<\/p> Wildlife viewing may pose risks, particularly on foot or at close range. If you plan on visiting a wildlife area such as a tiger reserve:<\/p> Large groups of monkeys are present in several parts of India, including some urban regions. Monkeys can get aggressive and rapidly overwhelm travellers in their search for food. They can also steal your belongings.<\/p> Be vigilant when in the presence of monkeys.<\/p> We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.<\/p> Information about foreign domestic airlines<\/a><\/p>","entry-exit":" Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.<\/p> We have obtained the information on this page from the Indian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.<\/p> Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada<\/a>.<\/p> Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.<\/p> Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.<\/p> Your passport must be valid for 6 months from your date of entry into India and must contain at least two blank pages for use by immigration officials.<\/span><\/p> Different entry rules may apply.<\/p> Official travel<\/a><\/p> While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.<\/p> Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.<\/p> Certain types of Indian visa services for Canadians have resumed. For additional information, please contact the visa service provider directly.<\/p> Latest information<\/a> – Indian Visa Application Center in Canada<\/p><\/span><\/section> Ensure you apply for the proper type of visa for the specific purpose of your trip. If you are denied entry by immigration officials, you will be returned to your point of departure.<\/p> Canadian-Pakistani citizens are subject to different visa application and registration procedures.<\/p> You can only stay in India for up to 180 consecutive days on a tourist visa, even when its validity exceeds 180 days.<\/p> If you stay in India for more than 180 days, you must register within 14 days of arrival with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO).<\/p> Strict penalties are enforced for overstaying. If you overstay, you could be subject to fines, detention and a future travel ban.<\/p> If you have overstayed your visa, you must request an exit visa from the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO). This process can be lengthy.<\/p> Customs officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.<\/p> If you hold an Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) card, you must present it upon entry and exit.<\/p> You must present a boarding pass and a photo identification to access airport departure terminals and public areas.<\/p> If your passport is lost or stolen, an exit visa is required to leave India.<\/p> To obtain an exit visa, you must present the FRRO with:<\/p> The FRRO will verify the entry details before issuing an exit visa. This process can take several days.<\/p> Special permits are required to visit certain parts of India designated as restricted or protected areas.<\/p> Restricted or protected areas<\/a> – India's Bureau of Immigration<\/p> You may need to produce proof of polio vaccination if you are arriving in India from:<\/p> Confirm this requirement with the nearest Indian diplomatic office before travelling.<\/p> Learn more about travelling with children<\/a>.<\/p> Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever <\/a>(vaccines section).<\/p>","health":" This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.<\/p> Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Be sure that your routine vaccinations<\/a>, as per your province or territory<\/a>, are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.<\/p>\n Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. <\/p> Yellow fever<\/a> <\/span>is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.<\/p>\n Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.<\/p>\n Risk<\/strong><\/p>\n Country Entry Requirement*<\/strong><\/p>\n Recommendation<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n About Yellow Fever<\/a> Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada<\/a> There is a risk of hepatitis A<\/a> in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Practise safe food and water precautions<\/a> and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present. <\/p><\/details> Measles<\/a> is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.<\/p>\n Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.<\/p>\n Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.<\/p><\/details> Japanese encephalitis<\/a> is a viral infection that can cause swelling of the brain. It is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Risk is very low for most travellers. Travellers at relatively higher risk may want to consider vaccination for JE prior to travelling.<\/span><\/p>\n Travellers are at higher risk if they will be:<\/span><\/p>\n Hepatitis B<\/a> is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus. Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B<\/a> infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.<\/p><\/details> Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) <\/a><\/span>is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.<\/span><\/p>\n It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally. <\/span><\/p>\n Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry\/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19. <\/span><\/p><\/details> The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza<\/a> (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot<\/a> at least 2 weeks before travelling. <\/p>\n The flu occurs worldwide. <\/p>\n The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.<\/p>\n The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.<\/p><\/details> Typhoid<\/a> is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Travellers going to countries in South Asia should speak to a health care professional about getting vaccinated.<\/span><\/p><\/details> Malaria<\/a> is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes. Antimalarial medication may be recommended<\/a> depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. Rabies treatment is often available in this destination. <\/p>\n Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). <\/p><\/details> Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.<\/p>\n <\/p> Risk<\/strong><\/p>\r\n Cholera<\/a> is a risk in parts of this country. Most travellers are at very low risk.<\/p>\r\n To protect against cholera, all travellers should practise safe food and water precautions<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n Travellers at higher risk of getting cholera include those:<\/p>\r\n Vaccination may be recommended for high-risk travellers, and should be discussed with a health care professional.<\/p><\/details>In and around Bengaluru, Chandigarh and Mumbai - Exercise a high degree of caution<\/h3>
Parts of Northeastern India - Avoid non-essential travel<\/h3>
Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir - Avoid all travel<\/h3>
Border areas with Pakistan - Avoid all travel<\/h3>
Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir<\/h3>
Border areas with Pakistan<\/h3>
Parts of Northeastern India<\/h3>
Terrorism<\/h3>
Crime<\/h3>
Fraud<\/h3>
Scams<\/h4>
Romance scams<\/h4>
Investment scams<\/h4>
Spiked food and drinks<\/h3>
Women’s safety<\/h3>
Forced marriages<\/h3>
If you’re in Canada<\/h4>
If you’re in India<\/h4>
Demonstrations and mass gatherings<\/h3>
Road safety<\/h3>
Public transportation<\/h3>
Trains<\/h4>
Taxis<\/h4>
Maritime transportation<\/h4>
Piracy<\/h3>
Water activities<\/h3>
Trekking<\/h3>
Wildlife viewing<\/h3>
Air travel<\/h3>
Passport<\/h3>
Regular Canadian passport<\/h4>
Passport for official travel<\/h4>
Passport with “X” gender identifier<\/h4>
Other travel documents<\/h4>
Useful links<\/h4>
Visas<\/h3>
Residency registration<\/h4>
Useful links<\/h4>
Penalties for overstaying<\/h4>
Other entry requirements<\/h3>
Dual citizenship<\/h3>
Departure<\/h3>
Lost or stolen passport<\/h4>
Useful links<\/h4>
Restricted and Protected Areas<\/h3>
Poliomyelitis<\/h3>
Useful links<\/h4>
Children and travel<\/h3>
Yellow fever<\/h3>
Relevant Travel Health Notices<\/h3>
Routine vaccines<\/h3>\n
Pre-travel vaccines and medications<\/h3>\n
Yellow Fever - Country Entry Requirements <\/summary>
\n
\n
\n
<\/p>\n
* It is important to note that country entry requirements<\/a> may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office<\/a> of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.<\/p><\/details>Hepatitis A<\/summary>
Measles <\/summary>
Japanese encephalitis<\/summary>
\n
Hepatitis B<\/summary>
COVID-19<\/summary>
Influenza<\/summary>
\n
Typhoid <\/summary>
Malaria <\/summary>
There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and\/or during a certain time of year in this destination. <\/strong><\/p>\n
Protect yourself from mosquito bites<\/a> at all times:
• Cover your skin and use an approved<\/a> insect repellent on uncovered skin.
• Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and\/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows.
• Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.
• Wear permethrin-treated clothing.
If you develop symptoms<\/a> similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. <\/p><\/details>Rabies <\/summary>
In this destination, rabies<\/a> is carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions<\/a>, including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.<\/p>\nSafe food and water precautions<\/h3>\n
\n
Cholera<\/summary>
\r\n