A Canada Business Visa, officially called a Business Visitor Visa, allows foreign business professionals to visit Canada for short-term business activities, such as attending meetings, conferences, or signing contracts. It does not permit employment in Canada.
Eligibility Requirements for a Business Visa
To qualify as a business visitor, you must:
- Plan to stay in Canada for less than six months
- Have no intention to enter the Canadian labor market
- Have a business-related reason for your visit (e.g., meetings, trade shows)
- Have a valid passport and sufficient financial proof
- Show strong ties to your home country (job, assets, family)
- Be in good health (a medical exam may be required)
- Have no criminal record (a police clearance may be requested)
Step-by-Step Application Process
1. Determine if You Need a Visa
Citizens of visa-exempt countries (e.g., U.S., UK, EU countries) may only require an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Others must apply for a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), which includes the business visa.
2. Gather Required Documents
- Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity)
- Completed IMM 5257 form (Temporary Resident Visa application)
- Letter of invitation from a Canadian business partner (if applicable)
- Proof of business activities (conference registration, contracts, etc.)
- Company documents (business registration, tax records)
- Proof of funds (bank statements, pay stubs)
- Travel itinerary (flight bookings, hotel reservations)
- Ties to home country (employment letter, property ownership)
3. Apply for the Business Visa
- Online Application: Submit your documents via the IRCC website
- Paper Application: Submit to the nearest Visa Application Centre (VAC)
4. Pay the Visa Fees
- Application Fee: CAD 100
- Biometrics Fee (if required): CAD 85
5. Submit Biometrics (If Required)
If requested, visit a Visa Application Centre (VAC) to provide fingerprints and a photo.
6. Attend an Interview (If Needed)
In some cases, you may be called for an interview at a Canadian consulate.
7. Wait for Processing
Processing times vary based on the country of application. You can check current processing times on the IRCC website.
8. Receive Your Visa & Travel to Canada
If approved, your passport will be stamped with a Business Visitor Visa. At the border, explain the purpose of your visit to the immigration officer. Have supporting documents ready, including the letter of invitation and business proof.
Permitted Activities on a Business Visa
- Attending business meetings and conferences
- Negotiating contracts
- Conducting market research
- Training for a foreign business operation
Restricted Activities
- Working for a Canadian company
- Entering the Canadian labor market
Key Tips for Approval
- Ensure all documents are complete and accurate
- Have a clear business purpose for visiting Canada
- Show strong ties to your home country to prove you will return
- Keep a well-documented invitation letter if meeting a Canadian company