A business trip can involve meetings, conferences, trade fairs or other qualifying activities without entering the Canadian labour market. The distinction depends on what you will actually do, not simply where your salary is paid or how the trip is described. Prepare the invitation, itinerary and evidence of your overseas business. If the visit includes delivering services or hands-on work, assess whether a work permit or a specific exemption is needed.
What to plan
- Describe the actual activities, locations and length of the trip.
- Check business visitor eligibility against any work permit requirement.
- Organize employer, invitation and event registration evidence.
- Confirm the visa or eTA needed for the traveller.
The process, step by step.
This is the typical sequence to discuss when agreeing your service. The exact requirements depend on your circumstances and current instructions.
Describe the planned activities
List meetings, training, services and locations in enough detail to distinguish a business visit from participation in Canadian employment.
Assess the entry and work rules
Check business visitor conditions, any relevant work exemption and the visa or eTA requirement for the traveller’s passport.
Prepare the business travel file
Obtain the invitation, agenda and overseas business evidence, then apply for the required travel document using accurate trip information.
Travel within the assessed scope
Carry relevant supporting records and keep the visit within the authorized activities; reassess permission if the proposed work changes.
What to prepare
These are starting points for a discussion. The official checklist and your circumstances determine the documents required for an application.
- Passport and existing Canadian travel documents
- Invitation, meeting agenda or conference registration
- Overseas employer and business relationship evidence
- Trip funding, accommodation and return travel plan
Your questions, answered.
Business visitors use the applicable visitor visa or eTA process. Whether the activities qualify for a work permit exemption is a separate question.
No. The actual activities and relationship to the Canadian labour market matter, alongside the location of the business and source of income.
Check the official guidance
Research checked 13 October 2026. Program rules, intake, fees, and processing times can change. Use the current official instructions before making a decision.