India-Canada visa standoff raises concerns for year-end tourism season

Travel operators and tour agents are expressing concerns about the upcoming year end tourist season. This, as India has temporarily halted visa services for Canada amid the escalating tensions between the two countries.

The Ministry of External Affairs announced the suspension of visas for all categories for Canada, citing concerns over incitement of violence, Canadian authorities' inaction, and an environment that disrupts the functioning of Indian diplomatic missions.

Dipak Deva, the managing director of the Travel Corporation of India, speaking to the Economic Times, said that if both countries tighten visa issuance, it would lead to a significant slowdown in travel, affecting the tourist season.

Jyoti Mayal, the president of the Travel Agents Association of India, expressed worries about a wave of cancellations, especially since many travellers have already made bookings and numerous passports are awaiting visas in the embassy.

According to Ministry of Tourism statistics, Canadians accounted for 4.2% of foreign tourist arrivals in India from January to July this year. While this may not significantly impact inbound tourism due to many Canadians having OCI cards, the travel industry is anxiously awaiting Canada's response.

The impasse between India and Canada poses fresh challenges for the tourism industry, which has already faced a turbulent time over the last few years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Travel operators hope for a speedy resolution to avoid disruptions during the crucial year-end tourism season, which is vital for their businesses and the wider Indian economy.