📂 The "Do Not Forget" Document Folder
The most important rule of international travel: If you don't have the right paper, you don't get on the plane.
⚠️ Crucial: Keep all the documents below in a physical folder in your Carry-On Bag (Hand Luggage). Do NOT put these in your checked suitcases, as you will need them before you get your bags.
Original Passport:
- Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your entry date.
- Ensure the booklet is in good condition (no torn pages or water damage).
Visitor Visa (TRV) Sticker:
- Open your passport and double-check: Is the Name spelled correctly? Is the Date of Birth correct? Does the Expiry Date match your travel plans?
Letter of Invitation:
- If staying with family, carry a printed letter from your host stating: "I am inviting [Your Name] to stay with me at [Address] for [Dates]."
- TVT Tip: Attach a copy of your host’s Passport/PR Card and a recent Utility Bill (electricity/internet) to this letter to prove their address.
Proof of Funds:
- Bank Statement: A printed statement from the last 4-6 months (stamped by the bank is best).
- Forex Card/Cash: A receipt or screenshot showing your available balance.
- Currency Rule: You can bring as much money as you want, but if you carry more than $10,000 CAD (Cash + Forex combined), you MUST declare it to the officer. It is not illegal, but hiding it is a crime.
Travel Insurance Policy:
- Print the first page of your policy showing your Policy Number and the 24/7 Emergency Contact Number.
- Note: Canadian hospitals charge visitors $3,000+ per day. Do not travel without this.
Return Ticket:
- You must be able to show a confirmed return ticket to prove you intend to leave Canada at the end of your stay.
ArriveCAN Receipt (Recommended):
- Download the ArriveCAN app and fill out the "Advance Declaration" 48 hours before flying.
- Why? It gives you access to the "Express Lane" at Canadian airports, saving you ~30-40 minutes of standing in line.
✈️ The "Connectors" Guide (Layovers)
Please check your flight path carefully to avoid visa issues during your layover.
1. The "USA Warning" 🇺🇸
- Check your route: Does your flight stop in New York (JFK), Newark (EWR), or Chicago?
- The Rule: Indian citizens CANNOT transit through the USA without a valid US Visa (Transit C-1 or Visitor B1/B2).
- Result: If you do not have a US visa, you will be denied boarding in India.
2. The "Europe Safe Zone" 🇪🇺
- Frankfurt, Munich, Paris, Amsterdam:
- Generally, Indian citizens with a valid Canadian Visa do NOT need a transit visa for these airports, provided you stay in the international transit area and your layover is short (under 24 hours).
3. Baggage on Layovers
- Single Booking: If you booked the whole journey on one ticket number (PNR), your bags will usually go straight to Canada.
- Separate Tickets: If you booked two different tickets (e.g., Indigo to Dubai + Air Canada to Toronto), you must pick up your bags and re-check them. This would require a visa for that transit country.
- TVT Recommendation: When checking in at the counter in India, always ask: "Will I see my bags in Toronto, or do I need to pick them up at the layover?"
📲 C. The "Connect Before You Fly" Strategy (SIM Cards)
Avoid the panic of searching for Wi-Fi at the airport. Land connected.
Option 1: The "Permanent Number" (Best for Students & Work Permits)
- Why do this: You get your Canadian phone number (+1) while you are still in India. You can share it with parents, university, or employers before you fly.
- Providers:
- SimForCanada / Abroad Cube: They partner with Canadian networks (Rogers/Fido) and ship a physical SIM to your home in India. You insert it when you land, and it works immediately.
- Matrix: Offers Canadian SIMs delivered to your Indian address.
- Cost: Plans usually start at $35-$45 CAD/month (approx ₹2,100+).
- TVT Tip: Ensure your phone is "Unlocked." If you bought your iPhone on a contract in Dubai or the USA, it might be locked to that carrier. It must be unlocked to use these SIMs.
Option 2: The "Data-Only" eSIM (Best for Visitors/Parents)
- Why do this: It is cheaper and perfect for short trips (1-2 months). You don't get a Canadian phone number for calls, but you have data for WhatsApp/Uber immediately.
- How it works: Download the app, pay ~$10-20 USD, and get data instantly.
- Recommended Apps:
- Airalo: (Most popular). Choose the "Tuque Mobile" package.
- Holafly: Offers unlimited data but is slightly more expensive.
- Setup: Install the app in India ➝ Buy the plan ➝ Activate it only when you land in Canada.
💡 The "Indian SIM" Rule (Crucial for OTPs)
- Do NOT throw away your Indian SIM. You will need it to receive OTPs (Bank, Aadhaar, Income Tax).
- The Strategy:
- Convert to Prepaid: If you are on a Postpaid plan in India (Airtel/Jio/Vi), convert it to Prepaid before you leave to save money.
- Minimum Recharge: Recharge with an "Annual Validity" pack (usually ~₹1,800 - ₹3,000 for 1 year).
- International Roaming (IR):
- Action: Enable "International Roaming" service on your Indian carrier app before flying.
- Usage: Put this SIM in a spare phone or Slot 2. Turn off Data Roaming for this SIM immediately to avoid shock bills. You only need it for incoming SMS (which are usually free or very cheap).