Business Visas

Foreign nationals entering Canada for short-term business purposes may qualify for business visas, allowing them to engage in permitted activities such as attending meetings, negotiating contracts, and exploring business opportunities without requiring a work permit. Eligibility for business visitors determined based on several factors, including the nature of the business activities and the duration of the visit.

At Zohil-Morton Law, we assist corporations and individuals in assessing their eligibility for business visitor status, ensuring compliance with all Canadian immigration regulations.

Who Qualifies as a Business Visitor?

Business visitors must demonstrate that they are entering Canada for a short-term period of less than 6 months to conduct business activities, while ensuring they are not entering the Canadian labour market. Additionally, business visitors must confirm that their primary place of business, as well as their source of income and profits, is located outside of Canada. Applicants must also meet Canada’s basic entry requirements, provide necessary supporting documentation, and ensure they are not inadmissible to Canada.

Permitted Activities

Business visitors can engage in specific permitted activities in Canada while adhering to immigration regulations, without the need for a work permit. Some of these permitted activities include the following, among others:

• Taking orders for goods and/or services;
• Attending conferences, conventions or trade shows;
• Purchasing Canadian goods or services for a foreign business or government;
• Providing after-sales services as part of a warranty or sales agreement;
• Getting training from a Canadian parent company that an individual works for outside of Canada;
• Engaging in business meetings and negotiations;
• Consulting with clients and/or business partners;
• Negotiating contracts and/or sales agreements; and,
• Training staff or representatives at a Canadian branch of a foreign company.

Visa and Entry Requirements

Depending on a foreign national’s nationality, business visitors may require a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter Canada. Additionally, other documentation, such as an invitation to an event, a letter of support from a parent company, and a warranty, contract, or service agreement may be requested at the port of entry to verify the purpose of the business visit.

Legal Support for Business Visitors

Understanding business visitor regulations is essential to avoiding complications at the port of entry and ensuring a smooth entry into Canada. At Zohil-Morton Law, we assist corporations in sending employees and representatives to Canada for short-term business activities, ensuring full compliance with Canadian immigration laws.

If you are seeking professional advice on Canadian immigration matters, we are here to offer professional guidance and trusted, personalized support. With expertise in Canadian Immigration Law, we provide tailored legal services to ensure your immigration process is seamless and stress-free. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward your Canadian immigration journey.