Business trips to foreign countries are a great way to increase the reach of your brand and find untapped markets that are looking for your products and services, but planning these trips can take some careful organization. Each country will have its own requirements and rules for entering the country, and it’s important to know what you need ahead of time so you can effectively prepare.
Here are the top four most important things to address while you are planning your business trip to Canada.
1.Permits & Paperwork
Everyone entering Canada from another country must provide a variety of documents to demonstrate that they are who they say they are and they do intend to return home when their trip is over. Depending on where you are coming from and the passport that you hold, you may also require a visitor visa. Regardless of your country of origin, all visitors should be able to provide the following documentation:
- Valid travel documents, such as a passport
- Proof of a job, home, family, financial assets or other ties that will ensure you return home upon the completion of your trip
- Proof that you have enough money to cover the costs of your stay (this will depend on the length of your stay and the accommodations you have in place)
2.Invitation
Additionally, you may require a letter of invitation from someone living in Canada. This letter does not guarantee your approval for entry as visa officers will still assess your application before approval. This letter must include a variety of information about both the visitor and the person inviting them such as full names, date of birth, contact information, job title, intended length of stay, accommodations, and more.
3.Criminal Inadmissibility
Before you begin planning your business trip, it is essential to be aware that any criminal record may have a significant impact on your ability to enter Canada. Almost any criminal charge or conviction can cause your application to be rejected, even if your actions are not considered a crime in your home country. If you have a criminal record or are charged with a criminal offence, you should seek legal advice before attempting to enter Canada, as you may or may not be criminally inadmissible to the country, depending on the detailed circumstances.
For more information about planning a business trip to Canada, contact our team today.
