When applying for a Canada visa from India, one of the critical steps is submitting your passport for visa stamping. This article provides comprehensive information on where to submit your passport for Canada visa processing in India. Whether you’re applying for a tourist visa, student visa, work visa, or any other type, the submission process is crucial. Understanding where and how to submit your passport can ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Understanding the Visa Application Process
Before diving into the details of where to submit your passport, it’s essential to understand the overall Canada visa application process.
Step 1: Determine the Type of Visa You Need
The first step in the application process is determining the type of visa you require. Canada offers various visas, including visitor visas, student visas, work visas, and permanent resident visas. Each visa type has specific requirements, so it’s important to choose the right one for your purpose of travel.
Step 2: Complete the Application Form
Once you know the type of visa you need, the next step is to complete the appropriate application form. Most visa applications for Canada can be completed online. You’ll need to provide personal details, travel plans, and other relevant information.
Step 3: Pay the Visa Application Fee
After completing the application form, you’ll need to pay the visa application fee. The fee varies depending on the type of visa you’re applying for. Payment can usually be made online using a credit or debit card.
Step 4: Submit Your Biometrics
For most visa applications, you are required to submit biometrics, including fingerprints and photographs. Biometrics can be submitted at designated Visa Application Centres (VACs) across India.
Step 5: Submit Supporting Documents
You’ll also need to submit supporting documents along with your application. These documents may include your passport, photographs, proof of funds, travel itinerary, and other relevant documents. Ensure that all documents are complete and meet the requirements specified by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Step 6: Wait for the Visa Decision
After submitting your application and biometrics, you’ll need to wait for the visa decision. The processing time varies depending on the type of visa and other factors. You can check the status of your application online.
Step 7: Receive a Passport Submission Request
If your visa application is approved, you will receive a Passport Submission Request (PPR) from the IRCC. This request is an official notification that you need to submit your passport for visa stamping.
Where to Submit Your Passport in India
Once you receive the Passport Submission Request, you will need to submit your passport to the nearest Visa Application Centre (VAC) in India. The VACs are authorized by the Government of Canada to handle visa-related services, including passport submission.
Visa Application Centres (VACs) in India
There are several Visa Application Centres (VACs) located across India where you can submit your passport. These centres are managed by VFS Global, the official partner of the Government of Canada for visa services in India. Below is a list of major VACs in India:
New Delhi
Address:VFS Global Services Pvt. Ltd., Shivaji Stadium Metro Station, Baba Kharak Singh Marg, Connaught Place, New Delhi – 110001.
Phone:+91-22-67866002
Working Hours:Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Mumbai
Address:VFS Global Services Pvt. Ltd., Trade Centre, G Block, Bandra-Kurla Complex, Bandra (East), Mumbai – 400051.
Phone:+91-22-67866002
Working Hours:Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Chennai
Address:VFS Global Services Pvt. Ltd., Fagun Towers, 4th Floor, No 74, Ethiraj Salai, Egmore, Chennai – 600008.
Phone:+91-22-67866002
Working Hours:Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Kolkata
Address:VFS Global Services Pvt. Ltd., Mani Square Mall, Ground Floor, 164/1, Maniktala Main Road, Kolkata – 700054.
Phone:+91-22-67866002
Working Hours:Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Bengaluru
Address:VFS Global Services Pvt. Ltd., Global Tech Park, Ground Floor, Marathahalli Outer Ring Road, Devarabeesanahalli Village, Varthur Hobli, Bengaluru – 560103.
Phone:+91-22-67866002
Working Hours:Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Hyderabad
Address:VFS Global Services Pvt. Ltd., 8-2-293/82/A/467, Road No 36, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad – 500033.
Phone:+91-22-67866002
Working Hours:Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Booking an Appointment
Before submitting your passport, it is necessary to book an appointment at the nearest VAC. Appointments can be booked online through the VFS Global website. During the booking process, you’ll need to provide your application number, personal details, and choose a suitable date and time for your appointment.
Documents Required for Passport Submission
When you visit the VAC to submit your passport, you’ll need to carry certain documents. These documents include:
Original Passport:Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Canada.
Passport Submission Request (PPR):A printout of the email or letter from the IRCC requesting you to submit your passport.
Consent Form:Some VACs may require you to sign a consent form, allowing them to handle your passport and personal information.
Proof of Payment:Proof that you have paid the applicable passport transmission fee.
Passport Submission Process
The passport submission process at the VAC is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Arrival at the VAC: Arrive at the VAC on the date and time of your appointment. Be sure to carry all the required documents.
Security Check: Upon arrival, you’ll undergo a security check. The VAC staff will verify your appointment and documents.
Token Issuance: After the security check, you will be issued a token. This token will indicate your place in the queue.
Submission Counter: When your token number is called, proceed to the submission counter. Hand over your passport and the required documents to the VAC staff.
Acknowledgment Receipt: After submitting your passport, you’ll receive an acknowledgment receipt. This receipt contains a tracking number that you can use to check the status of your passport.
Return of Passport: Once your visa is stamped, the VAC will notify you via email or SMS. You can then collect your passport from the VAC or opt for courier delivery.
Tracking Your Passport
After submitting your passport, you can track its status using the tracking number provided on the acknowledgment receipt. Tracking can be done online through the VFS Global website. The status will indicate whether your passport is under processing, ready for collection, or in transit if you opted for courier delivery.
Important Tips for Passport Submission
Here are some important tips to ensure a smooth passport submission process:
Check VAC Holidays:Before booking an appointment, check the official holidays of the VAC to avoid any inconvenience.
Arrive Early:Arrive at the VAC at least 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment time.
Carry All Documents:Ensure that you carry all the necessary documents, including the original passport, PPR, and proof of payment.
Use the Correct Email Address:Ensure that the email address you provide during the application process is correct, as all communication from the IRCC and VAC will be sent to this address.
Keep the Acknowledgment Receipt Safe:The acknowledgment receipt is essential for tracking your passport and collecting it once the visa is stamped.
see also: Which Visa is Required to Work in Canada?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I submit my passport at any VAC in India?
Yes, you can submit your passport at any VAC in India. However, it is advisable to choose the VAC closest to your location to minimize travel time and expenses.
What should I do if I cannot collect my passport in person?
If you cannot collect your passport in person, you can authorize someone else to collect it on your behalf. The authorized person must carry a letter of authorization, a copy of your acknowledgment receipt, and their own identification.
How long does it take to get the passport back after submission?
The time it takes to get your passport back after submission varies. It typically takes a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the processing time at the VAC and the IRCC.
Is there a fee for passport submission?
Yes, there is a fee for passport submission at the VAC. The fee covers the cost of transmitting your passport to and from the Canadian High Commission and other administrative services.
Can I track the status of my passport after submission?
Yes, you can track the status of your passport using the tracking number provided on the acknowledgment receipt. Tracking can be done online through the VFS Global website.
Conclusion
Submitting your passport for a Canada visa in India is a crucial step in the visa application process. By following the guidelines provided in this article, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Remember to choose the nearest Visa Application Centre (VAC), book an appointment, and carry all the necessary documents. With careful preparation and attention to detail, you can successfully submit your passport and move one step closer to obtaining your Canada visa.