iStockIn the midst of an ongoing diplomatic dispute, India's decision to suspend visa services to Canadian citizens has sparked apprehension among technology companies, professionals, and entrepreneurs. While this move could potentially delay new contracts, the impact on projects already underway by Indian IT firms in Canada is expected to be relatively limited, as Canada has not reciprocated by halting visa applications from Indians.
However, if Canada were to also impose visa restrictions, the repercussions could be more significant. Nevertheless, considering that the global community has adapted to working without extensive travel during the COVID-19 pandemic, short-term visa constraints are unlikely to severely hamper business operations.
Vikram Shroff, Head of HR Law at Nishith Desai Associates, pointed out that the Indian government's decision means that Canadian citizens who are investors, entrepreneurs, or technology professionals may encounter difficulties obtaining visas to travel to India. He told TOI that this could adversely impact the mobility of technology talent between the two countries.
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Shroff clarified that this decision does not affect Canadian citizens who already possess Indian visas or OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) cards. It also does not hinder Indian citizens from traveling to Canada for various purposes, including family visits, business engagements, or educational pursuits.
More than 600 Canadian companies maintain a presence in India, and over 1,000 Canadian enterprises are actively pursuing business interests in the country. Indian IT companies have significant exposure to outsourcing work from Canadian firms. For instance, TCS was enlisted by Montreal-based Bombardier to modernize its legacy systems. Infosys has committed to hiring 8,000 Canadians by 2024 and is well on its way to achieving that goal. Wipro has a substantial contractual relationship with Canadian energy utilities company Atco, providing outsourcing solutions.
Indian IT firms have established centers in tech talent hubs like Mississauga, Ontario, Montreal, Quebec, and Waterloo in Canada. Furthermore, Canadian fund houses have invested substantially in India's startup ecosystem. The Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPPIB), for instance, has invested significantly in Indian companies, including Nykaa, Acko, Byju's, and Zomato. Canadian fund Ontario Teachers has also invested over $3 billion in India.
Cyrus D Mehta, Managing Partner of New York-based law firm Cyrus D Mehta & Partners, emphasized the importance of keeping immigration channels open, even during diplomatic disputes. He stated that while countries can engage in tit-for-tat retaliation with diplomats, such actions should not extend to visa policies. Open immigration channels contribute to diffusing tensions and fostering better understanding between the people of both nations.
India's leading tech association, Nasscom, reported that it is closely monitoring the situation and maintaining communication with its members in Canada. According to their feedback, there are no immediate areas of concern. However, Nasscom acknowledges that the situation is evolving, and they remain committed to engaging with stakeholders to address any potential areas of impact that may require support.
with inputs from TOI
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However, if Canada were to also impose visa restrictions, the repercussions could be more significant. Nevertheless, considering that the global community has adapted to working without extensive travel during the COVID-19 pandemic, short-term visa constraints are unlikely to severely hamper business operations.
Vikram Shroff, Head of HR Law at Nishith Desai Associates, pointed out that the Indian government's decision means that Canadian citizens who are investors, entrepreneurs, or technology professionals may encounter difficulties obtaining visas to travel to India. He told TOI that this could adversely impact the mobility of technology talent between the two countries.
We're on WhatsApp! Join the ET NRI Channel here
Shroff clarified that this decision does not affect Canadian citizens who already possess Indian visas or OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) cards. It also does not hinder Indian citizens from traveling to Canada for various purposes, including family visits, business engagements, or educational pursuits.
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More than 600 Canadian companies maintain a presence in India, and over 1,000 Canadian enterprises are actively pursuing business interests in the country. Indian IT companies have significant exposure to outsourcing work from Canadian firms. For instance, TCS was enlisted by Montreal-based Bombardier to modernize its legacy systems. Infosys has committed to hiring 8,000 Canadians by 2024 and is well on its way to achieving that goal. Wipro has a substantial contractual relationship with Canadian energy utilities company Atco, providing outsourcing solutions.
Indian IT firms have established centers in tech talent hubs like Mississauga, Ontario, Montreal, Quebec, and Waterloo in Canada. Furthermore, Canadian fund houses have invested substantially in India's startup ecosystem. The Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPPIB), for instance, has invested significantly in Indian companies, including Nykaa, Acko, Byju's, and Zomato. Canadian fund Ontario Teachers has also invested over $3 billion in India.
Cyrus D Mehta, Managing Partner of New York-based law firm Cyrus D Mehta & Partners, emphasized the importance of keeping immigration channels open, even during diplomatic disputes. He stated that while countries can engage in tit-for-tat retaliation with diplomats, such actions should not extend to visa policies. Open immigration channels contribute to diffusing tensions and fostering better understanding between the people of both nations.
India's leading tech association, Nasscom, reported that it is closely monitoring the situation and maintaining communication with its members in Canada. According to their feedback, there are no immediate areas of concern. However, Nasscom acknowledges that the situation is evolving, and they remain committed to engaging with stakeholders to address any potential areas of impact that may require support.
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with inputs from TOI
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