Just like last time, the application process with IVHQ was quick and easy. My application was accepted and I have paid my registration fee, making it official. Apparently as this is my second volunteer trip with them, IVHQ will issue a $30 refund on the registration fee as well, which is nice.
The next step is my visa. This is a bit of a complicated process, as I am a Canadian national, living in Australia. Luckily, I have been here longer than two years, allowing me to apply for my visa from Australia rather than having to do so in Canada.
When you go with IVHQ into India you go on a tourist rather than a work visa. (There was some initial confusion over this, as the consular website says working for an NGO requires a work visa. I'm trusting IVHQ on this one...) This makes sense from a practical perspective, as it's such a short span of time. It also makes the visa requirements easier to meet. My Indian visa is now in and being processed. It should be ready in less than 10 days.
The paperwork sometimes feels more daunting than the travel to a new and unknown place!
The next step is my visa. This is a bit of a complicated process, as I am a Canadian national, living in Australia. Luckily, I have been here longer than two years, allowing me to apply for my visa from Australia rather than having to do so in Canada.
When you go with IVHQ into India you go on a tourist rather than a work visa. (There was some initial confusion over this, as the consular website says working for an NGO requires a work visa. I'm trusting IVHQ on this one...) This makes sense from a practical perspective, as it's such a short span of time. It also makes the visa requirements easier to meet. My Indian visa is now in and being processed. It should be ready in less than 10 days.
The paperwork sometimes feels more daunting than the travel to a new and unknown place!