a) Manipur, Assam, Nagaland, and Tripura, due to insurgency;

b) The border areas of Meghalaya, West Bengal, and Arunachal Pradesh, due to insurgency. The Indian army has been conducting military exercises along the Indo-Bhutan border. This is affecting civilian access to the border region.

Regional Warning

Exercise normal security precautions

Exercise high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against all travel to the following regions:

a) Jammu and Kashmir, with the exception of Ladakh via Manali or by air to Leh, due to ongoing conflict and terrorist violence. The Indian army has been given special powers in many districts of Jammu and Kashmir, which means that the prevailing security threat remains at a high level. Street demonstrations by the general public occur frequently, some of which have turned violent and have resulted in fatalities. The frequency of such demonstrations has increased in the capital Srinagar since the end of 2009, often leading to imposition of curfews. Car bombs and grenade attacks occur regularly. Violent clashes between militants and Indian security forces in the Kashmir valley and Jammu region of the state are frequent. A strong military presence remains on both sides of the Line of Control. Fields of landmines have been laid along the length of both sides of the border by India and Pakistan;

b) The border areas in the following states which are significantly affected by insurgency: Manipur (border with Burma), Assam (border with Bangladesh and Bhutan), Nagaland (border with Burma) and Tripura (border with Bangladesh);

c) Interior areas of Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Orissa, Maharashtra and West Bengal, all of which are states significantly affected by insurgency;

d) The border areas within the immediate vicinity of the Line of Control (the military control line between India and Pakistan) in the following states bordering on Pakistan: Gujarat, Rajasthan, Punjab, and Jammu and Kashmir. Exceptions include the Wagah border crossing and towns more distant from the border such as Amritsar in Punjab and Bikaner and Jaisalmer in Rajasthan. Travellers to this region should be extremely vigilant. Landmines and unexploded munitions along the border constitute a risk. A military presence remains on both sides of the Line of Control with Pakistan. Landmines have been laid along the length of the border by India and Pakistan.

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: We offer a registration service for all Canadians travelling or living abroad. This service is provided so that we can contact and assist you in an emergency abroad, such as a natural disaster or civil unrest, or inform you of a family emergency at home. Registration can be done on-line or by contacting a Canadian government office abroad. For more information, see our FAQs on Registration of Canadians Abroad.

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3. SAFETY AND SECURITY

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. Travellers are responsible for their own personal safety. The Government of Canada takes the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provides credible and timely advice in its Travel Reports. In the event of a crisis situation that requires evacuation, the Government of Canada’s policy is to provide safe transportation to the closest safe location. Canada will assist Canadians in leaving a country or a region as a last resort, when all means of commercial or personal transportation have been exhausted. This service is provided on a cost-recovery basis. Onward travel is at the individual’s personal expense. Situations vary from one location to another, and there may be constraints on government resources, which can limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide assistance, particularly in countries or regions where the potential for violent conflict or political instability are high.

Civil Unrest

Terrorist violence, such as bombings in public areas and on public transportation, can occur anywhere and at any time in India. Public trains and buses are always potential targets. Exercise caution when travelling throughout India, particularly when visiting tourist sites, government installations, or places of worship, or when attending public events such as cultural festivals. Major cities may be at greater risk of terrorist attacks by militant groups.

Demonstrations

Political rallies and demonstrations are frequent throughout the country and can turn violent, particularly immediately preceding and following elections. Both domestic and international political events can trigger large-scale demonstrations that may include communal violence. Transportation and other services can be disrupted on short notice. Curfews are occasionally imposed. Carry identification at all times.

Crime

Violent crime against foreigners is uncommon but occurs. Petty crime, including pickpocketing and bag snatching, is common. Passports and valuables have been stolen from luggage on trains and buses. Pay attention to the security of passports and personal belongings. Do not accept food or drink from strangers. There have been cases of drugging.

There have been increased reports of assault, rape and sexual aggression against foreign women. Women should avoid travelling alone, particularly after dark. Foreign women are often a target for unwanted attention. Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada publishes a booklet, Her Own Way: Advice for the Woman Traveller, specifically targeted at female travellers. Its prime objective is to inform Canadian women and encourage them to travel safely.

For emergency assistance, call 100 for police, 102 for ambulance, or 101 for fire.

Scams involving the export of jewels and/or carpets have occurred. Taxi drivers may approach you offering money to export such items. You should not accept any offer, no matter how convincing.

Trekking

Canadians intending to trek in India are strongly advised to:

a) never trek alone;
b) always hire an experienced guide and ensure the trekking company is reputable;
c) buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation services;
d) be in top physical condition;
e) ensure a family member or friend knows your itinerary;
f) be familiar with the symptoms of acute mountain sickness (which can be fatal);
g) register with the High Commission of Canada in New Delhi (see below); and
h) obtain detailed information on trekking routes before setting out.

Piracy

Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur in coastal waters. Mariners should take appropriate precautions. For additional information, see the Weekly Piracy Report published by the International Maritime Bureau.

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4. ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS

It is the sole prerogative of each country or region to determine who is allowed to enter. All countries or regions have special requirements for persons intending to reside for extended periods (usually more than 90 days) or who plan to work, study, or engage in non-tourist activities. To obtain information on specific entry requirements, contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) to be visited. Violations of entry and exit requirements may result in serious penalties.

The following information on entry and exit requirements has been confirmed with the Indian authorities. However, these requirements are subject to change at any time. It is the traveller’s responsibility to check with the High Commission for the Republic of India and its consulates, for up-to-date information.

A valid Canadian passport is required for Canadians intending to visit India. The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected departure from India. Canadians must also be in possession of a visa. In the case of a lost or stolen passport, Indian authorities must provide clearance for an exit visa, which can take two to three days to obtain.

All travellers with visas valid for more than 180 days must register, within 14 days of arrival, with the local office of the Foreigners Regional Registration Officer (FRRO) in Mumbai, Kolkata, New Delhi, or Chennai, and with the Superintendent of Police in all other districts.

Visitors holding a multiple-entry visa must wait two months between each re-entry to India. Visitors who need to return before the two-month period is up must present their case at the nearest Indian government office abroad. If the re-entry is granted, the visitor will have to register with the FRRO within 14 days.

Foreign nationals coming to India to execute projects or contracts now have to enter on an employment visa. As of August 2009, business visas are not accepted for such types of employment. All foreign nationals who were in India on business visas and engaged in project work or contract work were required to leave India upon expiry of their business visas or by October 31, 2009, whichever was earlier. No visa extension will be granted in such cases. Such foreign nationals are required to obtain employment visas from their country of origin in order to continue working on projects and contracts in India.

Tourists must obtain a permit from the Indian government (diplomatic representatives abroad or the Indian Ministry of Home Affairs) to visit the following areas: certain areas of Manipur, Nagaland, Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Rajasthan, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and Laccadive, Minicoy and Amindivi Islands. The minimum period of notice required for processing the applications for permits is four weeks.

Tourist Visa: Required
Employment Visa: Required and must be obtained from an Indian government office in the applicant’s country of citizenship
Business Visa: Required
Student Visa: Required

A Certificate of Canadian Citizenship is not a travel document. A Canadian passport is the only reliable and universally accepted travel and identification document available to Canadians for the purpose of international travel. Canadian citizens returning to Canada who present other documents, such as a Certificate of Canadian Citizenship, birth certificate, provincial driver’s licence, or foreign passport, instead of a Canadian passport, may face delays or be denied boarding by transport companies.

Selling, altering, or allowing another person to use your passport is a criminal offence. It could lead to the laying of charges and imprisonment if convicted. It could also lead to the denial of future passport services.

Special and diplomatic passport holders should verify all visa requirements for this and other destinations, as they may differ from those that apply to regular passport holders.

Any adult travelling with children may be required to show evidence of parental/custodial and/or access rights. Foreign and Canadian authorities may also require evidence that the adult has the consent of the parents, legal guardian, and/or the court to travel with the children. Some countries or regions may not permit children to enter or, in some cases, leave the country or region without proper documentation such as a letter of consent or a court order.

Although same-sex marriages are legal in Canada, many countries or regions do not recognize them. Attempting to enter as a same-sex married couple may result in refusal by local officials. For more information, contact the foreign government office accredited to Canada.

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5. CANADIAN GOVERNMENT CONTACTS

You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information at the following addresses:

India - NEW DELHI, High Commission of Canada
Address: 7/8 Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi, India 110021, India
Postal Address: P.O. Box 5207, New Delhi, India, 110021
Tel.: 91 (11) 4178-2000
Fax: 91 (11) 4178-2041
E-Mail: delhi.consular@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.india.gc.ca

India - CHANDIGARH, Consulate General of Canada
Address: SCO 54 Sector 17-A, Chandigarh 160 017, India
Tel.: 91 (172) 505-0300
Fax: 91 (172) 505-0341
E-Mail: CHADG-G@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.india.gc.ca

India - CHENNAI (formerly Madras), Consulate of Canada
Address: 18 (Old 24), 3rd Floor, YAFA Tower, Khader Nawaz Khan Road, Nungambakkam, Chennai 600 006, India
Tel.: 91 (44) 2833-0888
Fax: 91 (44) 4215-9393
E-Mail: cheni@gocindia.org

India - KOLKATA (formerly Calcutta), Consulate of Canada
Address: c/o RPG Enterprises, Duncan House, 31 Netaji Subhas Road, Kolkata 700 001, India
Tel.: 91 (33) 2242-6820
Fax: 91 (33) 2242-6828
E-Mail: ccklkta@rpg.in
Internet: http://www.india.gc.ca

India - MUMBAI (formerly Bombay), Consulate General of Canada
Address: 6th Floor, Fort House, 221 Dr. D.N. Road, Mumbai, 400 001, India
Tel.: 91 (22) 6749-4444
Fax: 91 (22) 6749-4454
E-Mail: mmbai@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.india.gc.ca

For emergency assistance after hours, call the High Commission of Canada in New Delhi and follow the instructions.

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6. TRAVEL HEALTH

The Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization (WHO) report on disease outbreaks that occur throughout the world. For the latest travel health advisories and related information, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Travel Health Web site.

The Public Health Agency of Canada continues to closely monitor and report on occurrences of avian influenza A (H5N1), or "bird flu", in humans and in birds. Further information on avian influenza A (H5N1) and recommendations for travellers can be found on the Public Health Agency of Canada's Travel Medicine Web site as well as on the World Health Organization's Web site. For more information, see our Global Issues page on Avian Influenza.

There are current or recent outbreaks of chikungunya in areas of Africa and Asia and the Indian subcontinent, including India, Indonesia, Madagascar, Malaysia, Singapore, Sri Lanka and Thailand. For more information, see the Public Health Agency of Canada's (PHAC) website.

The Ministry of Health in India has reported 140 cases and 32 deaths of meningococcal disease serotype A in the Indian states that are bordered by Bangladesh to the west and Myanmar to the east (states of Tripura, Meghalaya and Mizoram). The Public Health Agency of Canada recommends vaccination against the four subtypes of meningococcal disease (A,C,Y,W-135) for anyone travelling to the northeastern states in India or to countries where the disease is endemic. For more information, see the Travel Health Advisory published by the PHAC.

The Public Health Agency of Canada strongly recommends that your travel plans include contacting a travel medicine clinic or physician six to eight weeks before departure. Based on your individual risk assessment, a health care professional can determine your need for immunizations and/or preventive medication and advise you on precautions to avoid disease. Travellers are reminded to ensure that their routine (childhood) immunizations (e.g., tetanus, diphtheria, polio, and measles) are up to date.

Standards of medical care may differ from those in Canada. Treatment may be expensive, and payment in advance may be required. Travellers are advised to arrange for medical insurance prior to departure. Prescription medications should be kept in the original container and packed in carry-on luggage.

The Public Health Agency of Canada also recommends that travellers who become sick or feel unwell on their return to Canada seek a medical assessment with their personal physician. Travellers should inform their physician that they have been travelling or living outside of Canada.

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7. ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION

Medical facilities are generally good in major centres, but are usually very limited or unavailable in rural areas.

Dengue fever is prevalent in some areas of India. Residents and travellers are advised to take appropriate precautions to protect themselves from contracting dengue fever by using mosquito repellent (DEET) and avoiding swampy or low-lying areas where mosquitoes are more prevalent. Using physical barriers such as mosquito nets, long-sleeved shirts, and other physical protections is also recommended. People experiencing flu-like symptoms (loss of energy, fever, aching joints and muscles) are advised to seek medical attention immediately.

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8. LAWS AND CUSTOMS

You are subject to local laws. A serious violation may lead to a jail sentence. The sentence will be served in local prisons.

Canadians arrested or detained have the right to contact the responsible Canadian government office (embassy, high commission, etc.) listed in Section 5 above. Arresting officials have a responsibility to assist you in doing so. Canadian consular officials can provide a list of local lawyers upon request.

The procedures required in legal proceedings or police investigations may be different from the procedures in force in the Canadian legal system. Canadians wishing to undertake such proceedings can expect to face long delays and additional efforts in order to resolve their case. The Government of Canada cannot intervene in ongoing legal proceedings in other countries or regions, unless requested to do so by local authorities. Such requests are rare.

Dual nationality is not legally recognized, which may limit the ability of Canadian officials to provide consular services. Canadians should travel using their Canadian passport and present themselves as Canadian to foreign authorities at all times.

The Department publishes a booklet entitled Dual Citizenship: What Travellers Should Know, specifically targeted at Canadians with dual nationality.

There are reports of female Canadian citizens being forced into marriage without their prior knowledge or consent. Parents, relatives and the community may use relentless pressure and emotional blackmail, threatening behaviour, abduction, imprisonment and physical violence to coerce young people to enter into marriage. While both men and women experience forced marriages, it is a form of violence most commonly perpetrated against women. They have been unable to return to Canada, and their passports and money have been retained by family members. Canada opposes the practice of forced marriage and urges all countries and regions to respect their international human rights obligations relating to free and full consent to marriage. Forced marriage constitutes a human rights violation under several legal instruments, including international human rights law, to which Canada is a signatory. If you are in Canada and you believe that you are being forced to travel overseas or to marry, you should contact provincial social welfare authorities and your local police. You may also contact the Emergency Operations Centre (tel.: 1-800-267-6788) or the nearest Canadian government office (see Section 5 above).

Growing numbers of Canadian citizens have been caught up in marital fraud and dowry abuse in India. Most cases involve Indo-Canadian males who abandon their wives in India after cheating them out of large sums of money. Other cases involve misuse of India’s Dowry Prohibition Act. This law, which was enacted to protect women and makes demanding a dowry a crime, is sometimes used to blackmail men through false allegations of dowry extortion. Individuals facing charges may be forced to remain in India until their cases have been settled or pay off their spouses in exchange for the dismissal of charges. To avoid such problems, you are advised to register your marriage in India along with a joint declaration of gifts exchanged, as well as consider a prenuptial agreement.

Penalties for possession and trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect a minimum 10-year jail sentence and fines.

Strict regulations may be enforced on the temporary import or export of items such as firearms, antiquities, electronic equipment, currency, ivory, gold objects, and other prohibited materials. The Government of India recently passed a regulation requiring the registration of antique items with the local police, along with a photograph of the item. Canadians should contact the High Commission for the Republic of India for specific information regarding customs requirements.

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9. TRAVEL AND CURRENCY

Traffic drives on the left. Travel by road is dangerous. Most roads, including major highways, are poorly maintained and traffic is congested. Drivers have little regard for traffic regulations and do not follow safe driving practices. Do not travel by motorcycle or scooter after dark. Helmets are compulsory. Use only officially marked taxis, pre-negotiate the fare and seek information from authorized service counters at airports or railway and bus stations.

All passengers boarding flights in India need to present their air tickets or print-outs of their e-tickets before being allowed into the departure terminals. Failure to present proof of travel will likely cause delays for the passenger.

Although there are four land links between India and Pakistan, all these routes are highly restricted. Canadians require a visitor visa to enter Pakistan. The border crossing is open on a limited basis only, and travellers should inquire in advance.

Rail accidents are common in India, mostly due to poor maintenance. Air and rail traffic in northern India is sometimes affected by cancellations and rescheduling in December and January due to fog.

See our FAQ on transportation in order to verify if national airlines meet safety standards.

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required.

The currency is the rupee, which is a non-convertible currency. Traveller's cheques are widely accepted and can be exchanged at banks. U.S. dollar traveller's cheques are recommended. Credit cards are accepted. Automated banking machines are available in larger cities.

Check with your bank for information on automated banking machine (ABM) services outside Canada. You can also check the VISA ATM locator page or the MasterCard ATM locator page for the addresses of ABMs around the world. Verify with your financial institution whether your bank card can be used with ABMs abroad. Some countries use chip and/or personal identification number (PIN) technology for credit cards. Check with your bank to find out if your credit card will be accepted abroad. Credit cards and debit cards should be used with caution due to the potential for fraud and other criminal activity. ABMs should be used during business hours inside a bank, supermarket, or large commercial building. Leave copies of your card numbers with a family member in case of emergency.

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10. NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE

The monsoon season in western and southwestern India extends from June to September. Visitors should be prepared for disruption to local ground and air transport. Authorities have asked those travelling, living and working in Mumbai to be especially vigilant during high-tide days. Flooding can be more severe at these times.

See our Global Issues page for information on typhoons and monsoons.

India is located in an active seismic zone. Canadians should know the address and telephone number of the nearest Canadian government office in the event of an emergency.

In the summer, northeastern India periodically experiences heat waves. Travellers should keep informed of regional weather forecasts and plan accordingly.

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11. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Returning to Canada

Traveller's Checklist

Health and Travel Insurance: Do not rely on your provincial health plan to cover all expenses if you get sick or are injured while abroad. It may cover nothing or only a portion of the costs. Understand the terms of your supplementary insurance policy. Some credit cards offer their holders health and travel insurance. Do not assume the card alone provides adequate coverage. Carry details of your insurance with you. Also, tell your travel agent, a friend or relative, and/or travelling companion how to contact your insurer. Get a detailed invoice from the doctor or hospital before you return to Canada. Always submit original receipts for any medical services or prescriptions received abroad. Most insurance companies will not accept copies or faxes.

Cancelling a scheduled trip abroad could cost you money. Before cancelling a scheduled trip, you should discuss the matter with your travel agent, your travel insurer, or the airline. The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller.

Adoption: Provincial and territorial authorities in Canada are responsible for authorizing international adoptions. If you are thinking of adopting a child abroad, you must first obtain information about the adoption regulations of the province or territory in which the child will reside. While adoption is a provincial/territorial responsibility, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) is responsible for allowing an adopted child entry into Canada. Entry can be refused if the child does not hold the appropriate immigrant visa. A visa may be denied, even if the adoption has already been completed. For more information contact CIC at 1 888 242-2100 (in Canada only), check the CIC Web site or contact your provincial or territorial government.

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12. ANNEX

N/A

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TRAVEL REPORT India

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TRAVEL REPORT
India