Canada Business Visitor Visa – 2025 Update

Canada remains a key destination for business visitors seeking to expand commercial interests, attend industry events, or establish professional connections. In 2025, new regulations have refined the eligibility criteria and documentation requirements for business visitors.

What is a Business Visitor Visa?

A Business Visitor Visa, also known as a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), allows foreign nationals to enter Canada temporarily for business-related activities. Business visitors do not require a work permit, provided they do not engage in direct employment within Canada.

Business visitors from visa-exempt countries only need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) if arriving by air. However, those entering by land or sea do not require an eTA.

Permitted Activities for Business Visitors

Purchasing Canadian goods or services for a foreign business or government
Receiving training on Canadian products or services
Negotiating contracts or procuring orders for goods and services
Attending trade shows, conferences, and business meetings
Providing training to employees of a foreign company’s Canadian branch
Receiving training from a Canadian company with operations abroad

Updated Entry Requirements for Business Visitors (2025)

To enter Canada as a business visitor, applicants must provide:

Valid Passport – Must be valid for the duration of the stay.
Visitor Visa (TRV) or eTA – Required based on nationality and mode of entry.
Invitation or Support Letters – Letter of invitation from a Canadian host company, Letter of support from the parent company, Recognition letter from the Canada Border Services Agency (if applicable).
Proof of Funds – Demonstrating financial ability to cover expenses during the stay.
Business Documentation – Service agreements, contracts, or warranty documents (if applicable), Contact details of the Canadian business host.

Eligibility Criteria for a Business Visitor Visa

Plan to stay in Canada for less than six months
Meet all visitor visa requirements
Have their primary business and source of income outside Canada
Not seek employment in the Canadian labor market
Provide all required documentation upon arrival

Key Updates for 2025

Stricter Visa Approvals: Canada has tightened visitor visa regulations, limiting TRV approvals to business, tourism, and family visits only.
Faster Processing Times: Under the new government, visitor visa approvals have improved, with processing times reduced significantly.
Judicial Review for Visa Denials: Applicants now have 75 days to challenge visa refusals in court, up from the previous 30-day limit.
No Automatic 10-Year Multiple-Entry Visas: Canada has phased out automatic long-term visitor visas, requiring applicants to reapply based on eligibility.

Final Steps: Preparing for Your Business Trip to Canada

Once your visa is approved, ensure you have all necessary documents, including financial proof, business agreements, and invitation letters. Staying informed about immigration updates will help ensure a smooth entry into Canada.