How long does it take to get a Canadian business visitor visa?

Processing times can vary depending on several factors, including how quickly the required supporting documents are provided, whether additional background, criminality, or security checks are required, the country or visa office processing the application, the volume of applications IRCC is receiving, and seasonal fluctuations. In some cases a decision may be received within a few weeks after submission, but processing times can vary significantly. NewFlow Immigration cannot guarantee when IRCC will issue a decision or whether an application will be approved. All immigration decisions are made solely by IRCC.

Can I request a multiple-entry visa?

Yes. You can request a multiple-entry visa when applying for a Canadian business visitor visa. However, requesting one does not guarantee that it will be granted. The visa officer will determine whether to issue a single-entry or multiple-entry visa based on the application and the applicant's individual circumstances. The final decision on the type and validity of the visa rests with IRCC.

How do you determine if I'm eligible as a business visitor?

We assess your eligibility based primarily on the activities you intend to perform while in Canada and whether those activities meet the requirements for business visitor status. If your proposed activities fall outside the scope of what a business visitor is permitted to do, we will let you know and discuss whether another immigration option, such as a work permit, may be more appropriate.

But I'm only going to Canada for three days. Can I still qualify as a business visitor?

The length of your stay does not determine whether you qualify as a business visitor. Your eligibility is based primarily on the activities you intend to perform while in Canada. Even a short trip may require a work permit if the planned activities fall outside the scope of permitted business visitor activities.

I'll only be in Canada for four hours. Do I still need a Canadian visa?

Yes. If you are a citizen of a visa-required country, you must have a valid Canadian visitor visa before travelling to Canada, even if your stay will only be for a few hours. The length of your visit does not remove the requirement to have the appropriate travel document to enter Canada.

My previous Canadian immigration history was a long time ago. Do I still need to disclose it?

Yes. You should fully disclose your previous Canadian immigration history when the application asks for this information, even if it occurred many years ago. Failing to disclose relevant immigration history or providing inaccurate information may result in the refusal of your application and, in serious cases, a finding of misrepresentation, which can lead to a five-year ban from Canada.

My colleague applied for a visa after me but received a decision before I did. Why?

IRCC assesses each application individually, based on the applicant's circumstances and the supporting documentation provided. Applications are not necessarily processed at the same pace or strictly in the order they were submitted. A longer processing time does not necessarily indicate that there is a problem with your application.