Steps On How to Apply for Canada Business Visa
Learn the step-by-step process on how to apply for a Canada Business Visa with our comprehensive guide. From eligibility requirements to document preparation, our expert tips will help you navigate the application process with ease. Start your journey towards immigrating to Canada and establishing your business today!
What is Canada Business Visa? A business visa is a temporary resident permit issued to foreign nationals who wish to enter Canada temporarily for business purposes or as an investor. This type of visa allows you to travel in and out of Canada for business purposes.
On this Visa, you may not study or work in Canada. You can visit Canadian companies to check their operations, investment opportunities, sales, and so on.
How long would it take to get this visa?
If your application is complete, we can process an Express Entry Application within 2-3 weeks from the submission date and all other applications (not under Express Entry) will require an additional processing time of 4 -6 weeks.
What does it cost?
Please visit the Fee Page for an estimate of your total application fees. We charge a one-time fee to process your application, regardless of how many times you travel to Canada or how long it takes us to process your case.
Additional fees may be required based on specific circumstances in each case (i.e.: additional pages, supporting documents).
How Do You Qualify for a Business Visa in Canada?
- To qualify for a business visa in Canada, you must show that:
- You have experience in the field of business or trade (which you may do through education, work experience, or other qualifications)
- You will be doing one of these activities as a visitor to Canada: Attending meetings, Investing, Negotiating, Purchasing goods, and services, Promoting your products and/or services, Selling your products and/or services, Looking into purchasing an existing Canadian company, Setting up new operations,
- You will be carrying out the activities identified above for a maximum of six months during any 12-month period.
Is my Business Visa only good for 1 entry to Canada?
Yes, your business visa is only valid for one entry into Canada. We recommend that you consider applying for a multiple entry visa if you plan to travel frequently in and out of Canada on short trips (i.e.: vacations).
With a business visa, can I still study or work in Canada?
No. If you are issued a business visa in Canada, the Canadian Government does not allow you to attend a school or look for employment while on your visit. You may only carry out approved activities as outlined above and stay no longer than six months on each trip.
What documents will I need to apply for an entry permit?
In order to apply for an entry permit into Canada, you need to have certain documents that qualify you as a business person. In addition to your passport, you should have the following documents:
A detailed letter on company letterhead explaining why you are coming to Canada, what business activities and/or services you are providing or selling, and how long you intend to stay in Canada.
A valid passport and other travel documents, including visa and passport photos Evidence of your business experience (i.e.: education, work experience, etc.)
Information on the company that you are representing in Canada (i.e.: telephone number, address)
A letter from the company stating this is their official representative and giving permission for you to attend an event or meet with clients while in Canada (this letter must be on company letterhead).
A proof of Covid 19 Vaccination (proof of smallpox vaccination, if you are applying to work in healthcare)
A business letter from a Canadian company (on company letterhead), confirming that you will be meeting with your clients or looking for new business opportunities.
What is a Covid 19? The Covid 19 is a document that proves that you have received the compulsory Smallpox vaccination and are therefore eligible to enter Canada. You must apply for this vaccine at least 30 days before entering Canada.
How to Apply for a Canada Business Visa?
Contact the nearest Canadian Embassy or Consulate in your home country to find out more information. You can also visit the Canada Business website, and apply for a multiple entry visa if you plan on traveling frequently in and out of Canada on short trips (i.e.: vacations). If you live outside of North America, please contact your local embassy or consulate regarding applying for a business visa into Canada. For more information, please visit: Canada business
What are the Five Main Categories to a Canada Business Visa?
- Start-Up Visa Investor Program: This category is for those who wish to start a business in Canada. This program provides an opportunity for eligible entrepreneurs, investors, and self-employed persons from selected countries around the world to immigrate to Canada. The Start-Up Visa is applicable only if you are from one of the following two categories:
A) You have access to at least $200,000 in personal savings that can be invested through a Canadian venture capital fund or approved angel investor group
B) You have at least three years of experience in management and ownership of a profitable business outside Canada
- Business Investor Program: This category is for those who wish to immigrate to Canada with an interest or involvement in the following areas:
A) Management skills
B) Business/Financial skills
C) Employment creation
D) Comprehensive knowledge of the industry
E) Ability and willingness to develop innovative products & services
F) Interest in working within the community
- Self-Employed Persons Program: This category is for those who are self-employed and wish to immigrate to Canada with the intention of working in their own business. Requirements:
A) You must have at least three years of experience in self-employment or running a business (i.e.: your own doctor’s office, a shop owner, etc.) outside of Canada
B) You must have at least $75,000 personal savings
C) Your investment into the company must be substantial
D) Your income each year should be at least $50,000
E) The business must have a clear business plan
F) The business will not be seasonal
G) There must be at least two other employees besides yourself
H) You can live in any area of Canada
- Quebec-selected Business Immigration Program:
This category is for those who want to immigrate to Canada, but wish to live within the province of Quebec. Requirements:
A) You must intend on working and living full time within the Province of Quebec
B) Your personal savings should amount up to $50, 000
C) Your business must have a clear business plan
D) You should have a minimum of two other employees besides yourself
E) The company’s main assets will be held within the Province of Quebec
F) You must hold at least 33% ownership in the company
G) If you are an investor, your investment in the company should amount up to $200,000
H) Your income each year should be at least $50,000
I ) The business can not be seasonal
J ) There may also be other requirements based on the type of business you wish to establish
- Quebec Business Experience Program – Investor Immigration: This category is for those who wish to immigrate to Canada with an interest or involvement in the following areas:
A) Management skills
B) Business/Financial skills
C) Employment creation
D) Comprehensive knowledge of the industry
E) Ability and willingness to develop innovative products & services
F ) Interest in working within the community
G ) A substantial investment into your business that will help grow the business.