Apply for a Canadian Business Visa from the U.S. – Step-by-Step Guide (2025)

 Whether you're attending a trade show, meeting potential clients, or signing business contracts in Canada, you may need to apply for a Canadian Business Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa – TRV). Even if you're currently in the United States on a work or student visa, you must go through the proper process to enter Canada legally for business purposes.

In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about applying for a Canadian Business Visa from the U.S., including eligibility, documents, application steps, and tips for a smooth process.

What is a Canadian Business Visa?

A Business Visitor Visa (subtype of TRV) allows foreign nationals to enter Canada temporarily for business-related activities such as:

• Attending meetings, conferences, or trade fairs
  
  

• Negotiating contracts
  
  

• Observing site visits
  
  

• Providing after-sales service as part of a contract
  
  

Note: This visa does not permit you to work or be employed in Canada. If your activity involves hands-on work or long-term stay, you may need a work permit instead.

Who Can Apply from the U.S.?

You can apply for a Canadian Business Visa from the U.S. if:

• You are legally residing in the U.S. (e.g., on an H1B, F1, L1, or Green Card)
  
  

• You hold a valid passport from a country that requires a visa to enter Canada
  
  

• Your purpose of travel is temporary and clearly business-related
  
  

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Canadian Business Visa from the U.S.

1. Check If You Need a Visa

Some passport holders (like those from the U.S. or visa-exempt countries) may only need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). You can check your visa requirements on Canada’s official immigration website: Canada.ca – Find out if you need a visa

If you do need a visa, proceed with the TRV (Business Visitor) application.

2. Gather Required Documents

Here’s a checklist of commonly required documents:

• Valid passport (at least 6 months beyond your stay)
  
  

• U.S. visa or Green Card (proof of legal status)
  
  

• Business invitation letter from a Canadian company
  
  

• Letter from your U.S.-based employer (stating your role, purpose of visit, and assurance of return)
  
  

• Proof of ties to the U.S. (employment letter, lease, bank statements)
  
  

• Travel itinerary (flight bookings, hotel reservation)
  
  

• Recent passport-size photo (as per Canadian guidelines)
  
  

• Proof of funds to cover your stay
  
  

• Completed IMM 5257 (Visitor Visa application) form
  
  

3. Create an IRCC Account and Apply Online

Go to IRCC Portal and create a GCKey account.

• Log in and fill out the online application for a Temporary Resident Visa (Visitor Visa)
  
  

• Upload all supporting documents
  
  

• Pay the application fee: CAD 100 (approx. USD 75)
  
  

4. Submit Biometrics (If Required)

If you haven’t submitted biometrics to Canada in the last 10 years, you will receive a Biometrics Instruction Letter (BIL) after submitting your application.

• Book an appointment at a nearby VAC (Visa Application Center) in the U.S. (e.g., New York, Los Angeles, Chicago)
  
  

• Biometrics fee: CAD 85
  
  

5. Wait for Processing and Passport Request

Processing time varies depending on workload, but usually takes 2 to 4 weeks. You can check estimated times on the IRCC website.

If approved, you’ll receive a passport request letter to send your passport to the nearest Canadian consulate or VAC for visa stamping.

6. Send Your Passport for Visa Stamping

Follow the instructions in the letter and send:

• Original passport
  
  

• Passport request letter
  
  

• Return envelope with prepaid label (FedEx, UPS)
  
  

Once your visa is stamped, your passport will be returned to you within a few days.

Business Invitation Letter: What Should It Include?

Your invitation letter from the Canadian business must:

• Be on company letterhead
  
  

• Include your full name, purpose, duration of visit
  
  

• Describe the relationship between companies
  
  

• Provide the inviter’s contact information
  
  

• Include a statement of financial support (if applicable)
  
  

Fees Summary

Service	Cost (CAD)	Approx. in USD
TRV Application Fee	100	$75
Biometrics (if required)	85	$64
VAC courier (optional)	25–50	$20–$40
Total	~210–235	~$160–$180

Processing Time

• Application Review: 2–4 weeks
  
  

• Passport Stamping: 1 week (plus mailing time)
  
  

Apply at least 4–6 weeks in advance of your intended travel date to avoid delays.

Common Reasons for Visa Refusal

• Vague or weak business justification
  
  

• Missing documents or incomplete forms
  
  

• Insufficient ties to home country or U.S.
  
  

• Lack of financial support or proof of return
  
  

 Final Tips for Success

• Double-check your documents before submission
  
  

• Ensure your invitation letter is clear and professional
  
  

• Demonstrate strong ties to your country of residence (the U.S.)
  
  

• Prepare for possible follow-up questions from IRCC
  
  

• Keep all communication polite and consistent with your application
  
  

Conclusion

Applying for a Canadian Business Visa

from the U.S. is a straightforward process if you have the right documents and a clear business purpose. Ensure you apply early, present a strong case for your visit, and maintain consistency in your paperwork.

Whether you're expanding partnerships or attending industry events, this guide will help you navigate the Canadian business visa process confidently in 2025.