Travel Documentation Information
All visitors are responsible for and must have valid travel documents and identification
to enter Canada, such as a passport or visa. These items are your responsibility, but to
help ensure your travel to Toronto is as smooth as possible, we’ve compiled
some important information about obtaining a visa for your stay. Please read the details
below and start your visa application process well in advance.
Step 1: Determine Your Visa Requirements
Check Visa Requirements: Before applying, verify if you need a visa to enter Canada
based on your nationality. Visit the Government of Canada’s official visa website to find
out if you require a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or an Electronic Travel Authorization
(eTA). NOTE: If you have a U.S. passport, you do not need a visa. No further steps
are required.
Note: Visa-required individuals may be required to submit fingerprints and a photo
(biometrics) to acquire their visa for travel to Canada. (People who require only
an eTA do not need to provide biometrics. Travelers who normally require a visa will
also need to provide a biometric.)
Step 2: Invitation Letter
Visa support letters can be requested once attendees have registered for the
conference. The benefit of issuing a letter of invitation to registered attendees is that it
contains a Special Events Code, issued by the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
Canada (IRCC) Special Events Unit, which verifies that the conference is taking place in
a specific destination within Canada, during a specific date range at a specific venue.
This provides evidence that the person applying for a visitor visa that the attendee has a
legitimate, specific reason for travelling to Canada.
This does not mean that the attendee’s visa application is guaranteed approval, rather it
is supporting documentation to include with the application.
Please contact the registration team for all inquiries.
Step 3: Processing Times
Visa processing times can vary. Check the estimated processing times on the
Government of Canada’s website and apply as early as possible to avoid any delays.
CHECK APPLICATION PROCESSING TIMES
Step 4: Application Process
Gather Required Documents: Prepare the necessary documents for your visa
application, which typically include:
- A valid passport
- Proof of conference registration or invitation letter
- Evidence of sufficient funds for your stay
- Travel itinerary and accommodation details
- Any additional documents specific to your visa type
Submit Your Application - For TRV: Apply online or at a Canadian visa office in your country. Visit the
Canada Immigration website for detailed instructions. (You will receive
instructions once you register your conference with the IRCC0 - For eTA: Apply online through the eTA application portal.
Helpful Links & Contact Information
For any questions or additional assistance with your visa application, please visit
the Government of Canada’s official visa website for further guidance.
Travel and identification documents for entering Canada (Government of
Canada)
Travel tips from The Canada Border Services Agency (Government of Canada)
You can also share this informative video on your website which outlines the process for
applying for a visitor visa and an eTA: Canada Business Events Visa and eTA Step-by-
Step Guide
Canada Business Events Visa and eTA Step-by-Step Guide:
https://youtu.be/aYz9de2Qd_U