HOME : BEST OF BOTH WORLDS : MAJOR ISSUES : VISA DISCRIMINATION AGAINST EX-PAKISTANIS

Description:

Members of our Goan community, who are Canadian citizens, who previously held citizenship of Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Nepal, who have their roots in Goa, and who wish to visit India, feel deprived of their ethnic rights to visit India, their country of origin. This is due to the fact that they are not accorded the same review when applying for visas, as would be given to other Goans and other nationals who were not born in these countries.

The process in becoming a Canadian citizen is quite rigorous since it needs clearance re: security etc. Security measures need to be undertaken, but not at a cost that creates mental intimidation. In addition, there has not been a history or past experiences of Goans who have been terrorists or have committed a breach of security. As a community, Goans are God fearing and law abiding citizens, and would like the Government of India to recognize this fact.

Outcomes:

Canadians of Pakistani origin who no longer have Pakistani nationality and Pakistani passports may now apply for a visa on their Canadian passport…. Normally such passports will be mailed back in one month.

Source: Consulate General of India, Toronto. www.cgitoronto.ca February 2007.