Step 1: Determine Whether You Are a Business Visitor or Require a Work Permit
Business visitors are individuals who travel to Canada for short-term business-related activities, such as meetings or events, typically for a few days or weeks, with a maximum stay of up to six months. To qualify as a business visitor, you must:
Plan to stay in Canada for less than six months.
Not engage in employment within the Canadian labor market.
Have your primary business operations, source of income, and profits located outside Canada.
Possess supporting documents for your visit.
Meet basic entry requirements, including:
Holding a valid passport or travel document.
Demonstrating sufficient financial means for your stay and return journey.
Planning to depart Canada at the end of your visit.
Being admissible under Canada’s security, health, and criminal regulations.
If you intend to stay for more than six months or seek employment in Canada, you may be required to apply for a work permit.
Permissible Activities for Business Visitors
As a business visitor, you can:
Purchase Canadian goods or services for a foreign company or government.
Take orders for goods or services.
Attend business meetings, conferences, conventions, or trade fairs.
Provide after-sales services as part of a sales or warranty agreement.
Receive training from a Canadian parent company you work for abroad.
Train employees at a Canadian branch of a foreign company.
Undergo training from a Canadian company that has sold you equipment or services.
Under the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), U.S. and Mexican nationals may also participate in research, marketing, and general business services. More details can be found on the Global Affairs Canada website.
Step 2: Determine If You Need a Visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)
If you qualify as a business visitor, identify whether you require a visa or an eTA and the necessary documents for travel.
Step 3: Obtain an Event Code (If Applicable)
If your visit involves a meeting, event, or conference registered with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), check with the event organizer to obtain an event code. Including this code in your visa application helps facilitate processing.
Step 4: Apply for a Visa or eTA
Step 5: Prepare Your Documents for Travel
Ensure you have the following when arriving in Canada:
A valid passport or travel document for the duration of your stay.
A valid visitor visa, if required.
If applicable, the same passport used to apply for an eTA.
S. lawful permanent residents must carry a valid Green Card and a passport from their country of nationality.
Letters of support from your parent company and an invitation letter from the Canadian host business or Canada Border Services Agency.
Relevant documents, such as service agreements, contracts, or warranties.
24-hour contact details of your Canadian business host.
Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay and return journey.
Traveling with Minors: Canada has specific regulations for minors (aged 17 or younger) traveling to the country. Ensure you review entry requirements for minors before making travel arrangements.
Event organizers and Canadian businesses – bring business guests to Canada
Step 1: Conduct Due Diligence
Before formalizing a business partnership, assess your potential partner’s business history, assets, liabilities, and reputation. Conducting these checks ensures that their background aligns with Canadian business regulations and protects your company’s interests.
Consult the Trade Commissioner Service for expert advice.
Contact the Canadian trade commissioner responsible for the visitor’s industry and home country.
Provide your business partner with two copies of a letter of invitation.
Share 24-hour contact details of your company representative in case they need assistance upon arrival in Canada.
Step 2: Register Your Event (If Applicable)
If your business partner is attending a registered international event in Canada, you may qualify for support services through Canada’s Special Events Unit. Learn more about event registration benefits and how to secure assistance for visa applications.
Step 3: Determine Visa or eTA Requirements
Check if your visitor needs a visa or electronic travel authorization (eTA) by answering a few questions. The person you invite must also:
Carry valid travel documents for themselves and any accompanying minors.
Prove to an immigration officer that they meet all entry requirements.
Failure to meet these requirements may result in denied entry.
Step 4: Prepare a Letter of Invitation
A well-structured letter of invitation strengthens a business visitor’s application. If your event is registered with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), be sure to include the event code in your letter. Your guest should also include this code in their visa application.
Step 5: Encourage Early Visa or eTA Applications
For eTA Applicants:
Eligible travelers must apply online before booking flights.
Most applications are approved within minutes, but some may require additional processing time.
For Visitor Visa Applicants:
Business visitors apply for a regular visitor visa—there is no separate application process.
Biometrics (fingerprints & photo) may be required. If previously provided, applicants can check their validity online.
Multiple-entry visas are issued whenever possible, allowing repeat business visits to Canada.
Incomplete or missing documents can delay or result in visa refusals. Check processing times for estimated application timelines.
Step 6: Considerations for International Events & Meetings
Hosting Diplomats or Government Officials: For events involving heads of state or ministers, consult Global Affairs Canada’s Office of Protocol.
Airport Reception Services: Arrange a welcome counter for delegates at the airport by coordinating with airport authorities.
Border Regulations: Ensure all equipment and materials brought into Canada comply with Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) regulations.
Minors Traveling with Business Guests: Review Canada’s entry rules for minors (age 17 or younger).
