A “Business Visitor” is someone who comes to Canada to participate in international business activities but who will not technically enter the Canadian labour market. Business visitors remain in the country for a very short period of time, typically less than six months.
If you qualify under this program you will not need a work permit to pursue your activities, though you will need a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV).
Proving that you are a bona fide business visitor requires the kind of expertise that CIP can provide. We can help you or your business visitor employees present government officials with all of the appropriate paperwork and documentation to demonstrate your eligibility for this program.
Learn more about the program below.
Canada is one of the world’s largest economies, attracting thousands of short-term business visitors each year. With an international market-oriented economy and as a member of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation (OECD) and the Group of 7 (G7), as well as signatory to the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), Canada strives to ensure that international business visitors can come to Canada on business trips. Subject to the nature of the work, as well as the individual’s nationality, certain business visitors can enter the country to conduct business or trade activity without needing a work permit.
Business visitors must demonstrate the following:
- They must intend to stay in Canada for a short period, typically less than six months;
- They must not intend to enter the Canadian labour market in any way;
- Their main place of business and source of income must be located outside of Canada;
- Any profits from their business must be made outside of Canada; and
- They must meet standard Canadian entry requirements.
There are a number of reasons why an individual may come to Canada as a business visitor, including:
- Attending business meetings, conferences, conventions, fairs, etc;
- Buying Canadian goods or services on behalf of a foreign entity;
- Taking orders for goods or services;
- Providing after-sales service, excluding hands-on work in the construction trades;
- Being trained by a Canadian parent company for work outside of Canada; and
- Training employees of a Canadian subsidiary of a foreign company.
Individuals who plan to enter the Canadian labour market may require a Temporary Work Permit.
Allowing international businesspeople to do business in Canada is important for the continued economic success of the country. Similarly, countries that have trade agreements and strong economic partnerships with Canada generally allow Canadian business visitors to enter their countries as smoothly as possible. Visa reciprocity is an important aspect of Canada’s business outlook and economic success.
Don’t let immigration issues derail your business trip.
Work with CIP to ensure that the visa process runs as smoothly as possible. CIP has the experience and expertise that is required to prove that you or your employee represents a bona fide business visitor. With our help, you can focus on closing deals, solving challenges and moving forward with your business goals.
