How to Apply for Canada Business Visa from India?

Are you considering a business trip to Canada from India? If so, you’ll need to apply for a Canada Business Visa. This post will guide you through the process, eligibility criteria, required documents, fees, and other essential information to help you secure your Canada Business Visa from India on the first try.
What Makes You a Business Visitor?
Consider yourself as a Business Visitor in Canada:
- If you are visiting Canada to participate in any international business activities, however, not being involved in any of the Canadian labor market, or
- If you are visiting Canada temporarily either to invest, look for alternatives to grow your business, or enhance business relationships
Business visitors typically stay in Canada for a few weeks, and if necessary, they can extend their stay for up to six months.
Canada Business Visa Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for a Canada Business Visa from India, you must meet certain criteria:
- Valid Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for the duration of your intended stay.
- Passport Size Photographs: You’ll need two recent passport-sized photos that meet Canada’s specifications, such as a plain background and neutral facial expression.
- Financial Means: Provide evidence that you have the financial means to support yourself and your family during your stay.
- Evidence of Employment: Submit documents from your employer indicating your job, salary, and employment status with a registered company.
- Purpose of Travel: Include a statement detailing your travel plans and intentions while in Canada.
- Letter of Invitation: Obtain an invitation letter from a Canadian citizen or permanent resident who will be hosting or assisting you during your visit.
- Medical Exam: While not mandatory, it’s advisable to undergo a medical examination with an approved physician and obtain a health certificate.
- Police Clearances: Provide a certificate confirming that you have no criminal record. You can obtain this certificate from your local police station.
Ensure that all documents are in English or French. If documents are in another language, you must provide a translation certificate to verify their accuracy.
Canada Business Visa Application Process
Let’s break down the steps for applying for a Canada Business Visa from India in more detail while keeping it simple:
Step 1: Visit the Official Website
To start, go to the official website of the Government of Canada. This is where you’ll find all the information and forms you need for your visa application.
Step 2: Select the Business Visa
Once you’re on the website, pick the specific type of Business Visa that fits your situation. Canada offers different kinds of Business Visas, so choose the one that suits your purpose.
Step 3: Fill the Application Form
Now, it’s time to fill out the Canada Business Visa application form. This form is like a questionnaire that asks for your personal details, travel plans, and other important information. Don’t forget to attach all the necessary documents they ask for.
Step 4: Pay Fees
There are fees associated with your visa application. You’ll need to pay these fees online as instructed on the website. It’s important to follow their guidelines to make sure your payment goes through smoothly.
Step 5: Submit Application
After you’ve filled out the form, attached the documents, and paid the fees, it’s time to submit your application. This means you’re officially asking for a Canada Business Visa. Double-check everything to avoid any mistakes before hitting that submit button.
Step 6: Biometric Collection
Within a month, you’ll need to visit a Biometric Collection Service Point. Here, they’ll take your biometric data, which includes fingerprints and a photograph. This information helps verify your identity.
Step 7: Wait for your visa application to be processed
The Canada Business Visa processing time typically takes 1 to 6 weeks.
Canada Business Visa Fees
Applying for a Canada Business Visa involves fees. Here’s a breakdown of the costs:
- Your application: Processing fee ($CAN 1,625) and right of permanent residence fee ($CAN 515) – $CAN 2,140
- Your application (without right of permanent residence fee) – $CAN 1,625
- Include your spouse or partner: Processing fee ($CAN 850) and right of permanent residence fee ($CAN 515) – $CAN 1,365
- Include your spouse or partner (without right of permanent residence fee) – $CAN 850
- Include a dependent child – $CAN 230(per child)
- Biometric Fee: CAD$85 (mandatory)
Please note that these fees are subject to change, so check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Canada Business Visa Validity
A Canada Business Visa is typically valid for up to six months. It’s essential to adhere to the duration specified in your application, even if it’s less than six months.
Bringing Dependents
While a Canada Business Visa doesn’t allow you to bring your dependents, they can apply for a Canada Visitor Visa if they wish to accompany you on your trip.
Immigrating to Canada as a Business Visitor involves a straightforward process if you meet the Canada Business Visa requirements and eligibility criteria. Plan ahead, follow the steps outlined here, and soon you’ll be on your way to conducting business in the Great White North.
Good Luck!