A business visitor is someone who comes to Canada for international business activities but does not directly enter the Canadian labor market.

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Business Visitor vs Work Permit

Business visitor visas allow only short-term stays for business activities such as industry conferences, site visits, or training, not for those transferred to or employed in Canada; business visitors are not legally allowed to work in Canada without a work permit. If a visitor finds employment, the visitor's work permit application must be processed by the Canadian visa office responsible for the country in which they live or are a citizen.

 

How to Apply for a Business Visitor Visa

Business visitors have to follow the normal application procedure for a visitor visa and indicate that they are entering Canada for business. They may be required to show proof of their activities to the border services officer at their port of entry. Some visitors may be visa-exempt, but will still need an electronic travel authorization (eTA) if they arrive in Canada by air. Business visitors may bring family members with them to Canada, but each family member must complete their own visitor visa application.

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