What is the difference between a business visa and a work permit?

A business visitor comes to Canada for international business activities without entering the Canadian labour market, such as attending meetings or trade fairs. A work permit is for those who will be working directly for a Canadian employer or providing local services.

How long can I stay in Canada on a business visa?

Most business visitors can stay for up to 6 months at a time. The actual duration is determined by the Border Services Officer upon entry.

Do I need a visa if I am from a visa-exempt country?

Yes, if you are from a visa-exempt country (like the UK or Australia), you do not need a visa but must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before flying to Canada for business.

Is an eTA the same as a Business Visa?

The eTA is for visa-exempt nationals and is processed within minutes or hours. The Business Visitor Visa (TRV) is for visa-required nationals and takes weeks to process.

Can I look for a job while in Canada on a business visa?

No, as a business visitor, you are strictly prohibited from entering the Canadian labour market. You cannot take up employment with a Canadian firm.

Is travel insurance mandatory for the application?

No, medical insurance is not a mandatory requirement for the application, but it is highly recommended as Canadian healthcare for visitors is very expensive.

Do I need to book my flights before applying?

While you don't need to 'buy' a flight, you should provide a clear travel itinerary showing your intended dates of entry and exit.

Can I extend my business visa while in Canada?

Under certain circumstances, business visitors may be able to extend their stay by applying to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) at least 30 days before their status expires.

visa type country

business visa

Canada Business Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time

The Canada Business Visa, officially part of the Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) category, is designed for professionals intending to visit Canada for international business activities. This visa is suitable for individuals attending corporate meetings, industry conferences, trade fairs, or those engaging in contract negotiations and site visits. It is important to note that as a business visitor, you must not enter the Canadian labour market or receive direct payment from a Canadian source for your services. Navigating the application process requires clear evidence of your professional intent and proof that your primary place of business remains outside of Canada. Most successful applicants are granted a multiple-entry visa, allowing them to travel to Canada frequently over several years, provided each stay does not exceed six months. This flexibility makes it an essential tool for global professionals looking to expand their network or oversee operations in North America. Please note that visa policies and fees are subject to change. It is essential to verify all requirements with the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website or the nearest Canadian embassy or consulate before submitting your application.

Key highlights

Valid for short-term business activities like conferences and meetings
Most applicants receive a multiple-entry visa valid for up to 10 years
Allows stays of up to six months per visit
No Canadian work permit required for legitimate business visitors
Online application platform for efficient processing
Ability to bring family members (must apply separately)
Accepted at all Canadian ports of entry

Processing time

4-8 weeks

Processing times vary significantly based on the volume of applications and the specific visa office handling your file. Biometrics recruitment adds extra time to the total.

Estimated cost

~$140 - $185 per applicant

Standard processing fee (per person)$100 CAD (approx. $75 USD)
Biometrics fee (if required)$85 CAD (approx. $65 USD)
Service provider/VAC feeVaries by location

Requirements

The planned stay must be for less than six months.
Proof that the primary source of income and business remains outside Canada.
Documentation of the purpose of the trip (e.g., invitation letter).
Proof of sufficient funds for the duration of the stay and return travel.
A valid travel document (passport) with adequate validity.
The applicant must not have a criminal record or represent a security risk.
Good health, with a potential medical exam required for certain regions or durations.
Evidence that the applicant will leave Canada at the end of their visit.
Completion of biometrics (fingerprints and photo) if required by nationality.

Documents you'll need

Valid passport with at least one blank page (not including the last page)
A letter of invitation from your host business in Canada
Proof of employment or a letter from your current employer
Travel itinerary including flight bookings or hotel reservations
Proof of financial support (e.g., last 3-6 months of bank statements)
Recent digital photographs meeting Canadian visa specifications
Completed Application for Visitor Visa (IMM 5257) and Family Information forms
Evidence of ties to your home country (e.g., property deeds/family ties)

How to apply, step by step

1
Determine Eligibility
Check if you are from a visa-required or visa-exempt country to determine if you need a TRV or an eTA.
2
Secure an Invitation Letter
Request a formal letter from the Canadian company you are visiting, detailing the purpose and duration of your trip.
3
Complete the Online Application
Create an account on the IRCC portal to fill out your application forms and upload digital copies of your documents.
4
Pay Application Fees
Use a credit or debit card to pay the processing and biometrics fees at the end of your online submission.
5
Submit Biometrics
After submitting, you will receive a letter if you need to provide fingerprints and a photo at a Visa Application Centre (VAC).
6
Application Review
The visa office will review your application; you may be asked to provide further documentation or attend a brief interview.
7
Passport Submission
If approved, you will be asked to send your physical passport to the visa office for the visa sticker to be inserted.

Tips to avoid refusal

Ensure the invitation letter is highly specific, including dates, contact names, and the exact business reason for the visit.
Provide a letter from your home employer confirming they will continue to pay your salary during your trip.
Be honest about any previous visa refusals from any country; failure to disclose this can lead to a ban for misrepresentation.
Check that your passport has at least six months of validity beyond your planned departure date.
Detail your travel history to other 'low-risk' countries like the UK, USA, or EU to demonstrate a history of compliance.
Double-check that all uploaded documents are clear, legible, and translated into English or French if necessary.

Frequently asked questions

Related visa guides

Canada Visa Guide — Every Visa Type Explained Canada Tourist Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time Canada Digital Nomad Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time Canada Embassy & Consulate Guide Visa Requirements for Nigerians Travelling to Canada Canada Transit Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time Canada Work Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time

Browse all visa guides

Visa policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying. PermitlyHQ provides general guidance and is not a substitute for legal or immigration advice.

Check your eligibility Talk to a consultant