Business Visitors

Business Visitors: Attending Meetings, Events, and Conferences in Canada

Business visitors play a vital role in fostering international trade and collaboration. If you’re planning to attend meetings, events, or conferences in Canada as a business visitor, here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth entry process.

Step 1: Are You a Business Visitor or Do You Need a Work Permit?

To qualify as a business visitor in Canada, you must:

  • Duration: Plan to stay for less than 6 months.
  • Purpose: Not enter the Canadian labor market.
  • Source of Business: Ensure your main place of business, income, and profits remain outside Canada.
  • Documents: Have the necessary documentation to support your application.

Basic Entry Requirements:

  • A valid travel document (such as a passport).
  • Sufficient funds for your stay and return trip.
  • Proof that you will leave Canada at the end of your visit.
  • No criminal, security, or health risks to Canadians.

Activities Permitted as a Business Visitor:

  • Purchasing Canadian goods or services for a foreign business or government.
  • Taking orders for goods or services.
  • Attending meetings, conferences, conventions, or trade fairs.
  • Providing after-sales service under a warranty or sales agreement.
  • Receiving or conducting training related to your business.

Note: If your visit involves staying for more than 6 months or engaging in Canadian labor market activities, you may need a work permit.

Step 2: Do You Need a Visa or an eTA?

Whether you require a visa or an electronic travel authorization (eTA) depends on your nationality and travel circumstances.

Step 3: Obtain an Event Code (if applicable)

For events, meetings, or conferences registered with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC):

  • Your event organizer will provide you with an event code and instructions for your visa application.
  • Entering the event code on your application helps identify you as a participant.

Step 4: Apply for a Visa or eTA (If Needed)

  • Visa: Submit a visa application through the official IRCC website.
  • eTA: Apply online for an eTA .

Step 5: Prepare Documents for Your Trip

When arriving at the Canadian border, ensure you have the following documents (do not pack these in your suitcase):

  • A valid passport or travel document for the entire duration of your stay.
  • A valid visa (if applicable).
  • If you require an eTA, travel with the passport used in your eTA application.
  • Lawful permanent residents of the United States must bring a valid green card (or equivalent proof of status) and their passport.
  • Letters of support from your parent company and a letter of invitation from the Canadian host business.
  • Additional documents such as contracts, warranty agreements, or service documents (if relevant).
  • Contact details for your business host in Canada.
  • Proof of sufficient funds for your stay and return.

Minors Traveling with You

If traveling with children under the age of 18, familiarize yourself with Canada’s regulations for minors.

  • Consult the entry requirements for minors to ensure compliance with Canadian laws protecting children.

Key Notes for Business Visitors

  • The Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) provides additional provisions for U.S. and Mexican nationals participating in activities like research, marketing, and general services.
  • Always check with your meeting or event organizer for specific requirements or guidance.
  • Business visitors are limited to activities that do not involve direct employment within Canada.

By following these steps and ensuring you have the right documents, your business visit to Canada can proceed efficiently and successfully.

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