What Business Visitors Can Do in Canada
- Attend board meetings, business meetings, or conferences
- Negotiate contracts or purchase orders
- Conduct after-sales service or warranty work (if part of original purchase contract)
- Receive training for equipment or software your company purchased in Canada
- Attend trade fairs or conventions as a representative
- Participate in training programs paid for and organised by a company outside Canada
Eligibility for Business Visitor Status
International business activity
Your business activities must be international in scope — your primary source of income and principal business must remain outside Canada.
No Canadian labour market entry
You will not be paid by a Canadian employer and will not be competing with Canadians for work in the Canadian labour market.
Valid travel documents
Valid passport with at least 6 months validity, and any required visa or eTA for your nationality.
Proof of purpose
Letter from your employer confirming the business purpose of your visit, meeting invitations, conference registrations, or trade show exhibitor documentation.
Visa vs. eTA — What Do You Need?
| Document | Who Needs It | Fee | Processing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visitor Visa (TRV) | Citizens of countries not on eTA-exempt list (e.g., India, China, Philippines, Nigeria) | $100 | 2–8 weeks |
| Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) | Citizens of visa-exempt countries flying to Canada (e.g., UK, Germany, Australia, France) | $7 | Minutes to 72 hours |
| No document needed | US citizens (show passport at border) | Free | At border |
Key Documents to Bring
- Valid passport and visa/eTA
- Letter from your employer describing business purpose
- Meeting invitation, conference agenda, or trade show registration
- Proof of employment and business role outside Canada
- Return ticket showing intent to leave Canada
- Proof of sufficient funds for your stay
Extending Your Stay as a Business Visitor
If you need to extend your stay beyond 6 months, you must apply for an extension before your current authorised stay expires. File using IRCC's online portal. Extensions are granted at the discretion of the border services officer and are not guaranteed.
Planning a Business Visit to Canada?
Our team can prepare your business visitor letter package and answer any questions about the entry process. Quick consultations available via WhatsApp.
💬 WhatsApp Free ConsultationThis page is for general information only and does not constitute immigration legal advice. Program rules change frequently — always verify details at canada.ca. For personalised guidance, consult a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC). Mirus Immigration · David Johl · RCIC R519520.