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What has changed in Canada business visa in 2023?

Apr 9, 2024 5:53 PM
Hana Emily
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Do you know anything about the business visa in Canada? If yes, have you come across any recent modifications to the Canada business visa in 2023? Read on further to learn more about the business visa in Canada and its current changes.

WHAT IS THE BUSINESS VISA CANADA 2023? 

A business visa is a special treat for those who yearn to participate in the international business industry. It is a temporary residence program that permits entrepreneurs or executives to enter and reside in a country for business purposes.

The Canada business visa in 2023 has offered diverse options for foreign enterprises to engage in commercial activities and establish their ventures within the country. More importantly, the holders of this visa may even have the chance to attain permanent residency or citizenship in Canada if they satisfy all the eligibility requirements.

TYPE OF BUSINESS VISA CANADA IN 2023

There is an array of options for individuals applying for a Canada business visa in 2023, with the most common categories being allocated into two groups below.

  • Canada short-stay business visa: This category is a non-immigrant program in which individuals can stay only for a maximum of 6 months. This category encompasses the business visitor visa and the eTA.

  • Canada long-stay business visa: As opposed to the above, this category is an immigrant program that allows visa holders to reside for an extended period, potentially even permanently. It includes three prominent types: the start-up program, the intra-company transfer business visa, and the provincial nominee business visa. 

business visa Canada 2023 - some type of business visa Canada 2023

Some type of Canada business visa in 2023

Business visitor visa in Canada 

What is the business visitor visa in Canada?

A business visitor visa is an official document that will be stamped on the passport of applicants upon acceptance. It is meant for citizens arriving from countries that necessitate a visa to travel to Canada.

Individuals holding this visa are allowed to temporarily stay in the country for a determined timeline and attend global meetings or business-related activities. However, consider that engaging in any involvement in profit-making ventures or entering into employment agreements is strictly forbidden.

What are the advantages of the business visitor visa in Canada? 

The business visitor visa in Canada is one of the easiest roadmaps for temporary business visits to the country, yielding many benefits that should not be ignored. Please review the further details below to see what you will get and seize this amazing chance to make the most of your trip.

  • Shorter processing time: The processing time for the business visitor visa in Canada is typically shorter compared to an ordinary visitor visa, allowing individuals to swiftly and efficiently obtain their visa.

  • Multiple entry: With the visa permitting multiple entries into Canada for a specified period, usually up to 6 months, frequent business travelers can easily come and go from the country as needed.

  • No need for a job offer: Unlike work visas, the business visitor visa in Canada does not require applicants to have a job offer from a Canadian employer. This makes it more accessible for individuals seeking business opportunities without pressure. 

  • Transnational collaboration opportunities: The visa provides you with the chance to deal with Canadian companies for collaboration. As a result, it helps to build international business connections and strengthen commercial relationships. 

  • Networking and market research: The business visitor visa in Canada facilitates networking opportunities, enabling individuals to attend business and industry events to extend their network with some Canadian enterprises.  

  • Cost-effective: Obtaining a business visitor visa in Canada is often more cost-effective than other visas, as it does not require extensive documentation or sponsorship from Canadian employers.

What are some admissible and inadmissible activities to do with a business visitor visa in Canada?

Should you not understand what the admissible or inadmissible activities are under a business visitor visa in Canada, the subsequent table will assist you in identifying all of them.

Business visitor visa in Canada 

Admissible activities

Inadmissible activities

  • Engage in the purchase of Canadian goods or services on behalf of a foreign business or government.

  • Attend meetings, conventions, or trade fairs operated by the Canadian or international host. 

  • Providing after-sales service as per the terms of a warranty or sales agreement.

  • Participate in a training course for employees from a Canadian parent company while working for them outside of Canada.

  • Participate in a training course for employees of a Canadian branch of a foreign company.

  • Participate in a training course from a Canadian company that has previously sold you equipment or services.

  • Join in research projects, marketing campaigns, and general services as a nationality of the U.S. or Mexico.

  • Join in illicit business operations or unlawful commerce, including selling drugs, weapons, hazardous equipment, and more. 

  • Start a fresh enterprise or relocate your existing company to establish your business in Canada.

  • Conduct meetings or conferences without obtaining permission. 

  • Overstay the permitted duration of your stay. 

  • Leak out the confidential business plans of Canadian companies or foreign enterprises operating in Canada. 

  • Plagiarize ideas from Canadian companies or foreign enterprises in Canada. 

The requirements for a business visitor visa in Canada

Among all Canada business visa in 2023, the business visitor visa stands out as the simplest and most easily attainable choice, with just a few requirements to be met. Let's come to see what those few requirements are.

  • Congruent business intention: The purpose of your business visit must fall under the admissible activities mentioned above. Any other exceptional intention beyond the provided list may not be accepted.

  • Application requirement: You must obtain a temporary resident visa in advance, as it is an entry prerequisite to visit Canada and be able to apply as a business visitor later. 
  • Funds to support your stay: You should have sufficient funds to sustain yourself and your family members who may be accompanying you during your stay in Canada. 

  • Absence of severe illness: You should not have any infectious diseases that could pose a risk to the general community or public. 

  • No criminal record: You should not have been involved in criminal activities in the past, and you have a spotless personal record.

Business E-visa in Canada

What is the business E-visa in Canada 2023? 

A business E-visa, commonly known as an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization), is an online official document that is digitally linked to the passport of eligible applicants. It is an incredibly convenient solution that enables citizens of visa-exempt countries to obtain a visa online without the need for in-person applications.

The activities allowed and restrictions imposed by the visa are similar to those of the business visitor visa. The sole distinction lies in the fact that the business E-visa is exclusively available to nationals on the exempt list, whereas the business visitor visa is open to all.

What are the advantages of the business E-visa in Canada? 

The business E-visa in Canada is an ideal type for individuals who reap the benefits of being a visa-exempt national and can avail themselves of different benefits. Check out the complete list of advantages below.

  • Convenience: The business E-visa in Canada streamlines the visa application process by allowing you to apply for and receive your visa online. This eliminates the need to physically visit a consulate or embassy, making it a more convenient option.

  • Efficient processing: The business E-visa in Canada is processed faster than traditional visas, allowing you to plan your business trip more efficiently. You can expect quicker processing times, which means less time waiting for your visa to be approved.

  • Multiple entries: With the business E-visa, you can travel in and out of Canada multiple times during the visa validity period. This means you can partake in any business-related activities without worrying about reapplying for a visa every time you leave and re-enter Canada.

  • Extended validity: The business E-visa in Canada can have a longer validity period than regular visas, giving you more flexibility in exploring your business opportunities in Canada over an extended period.

  • Cost-effective: Applying for a business E-visa in Canada can be a cost-effective option compared to traditional visa processes. It reduces additional expenses like travel costs to the consulate or embassy. 

The requirements for a business E-visa in Canada

If you're interested in applying for a business visa E-visa in Canada, there are a few prerequisites that must be satisfied. Here are the primary requirements that must be met.

  • Congruent business intention: The purpose of your business visit must fall under the admissible activities mentioned above. Any other exceptional intention may not be accepted. 

  • Funds to support your stay: You should have sufficient funds to sustain yourself and your family members who may be accompanying you during your stay in Canada. 

  • Having great well-being and being lucid: You must maintain a healthy body condition that allows you to move normally. Additionally, you must have a sound mind that faces no psychological problems. 

  • Absence of severe illness: You should not have any infectious diseases that could pose a risk to the general community or public. 

  • No criminal record: You should not have been involved in criminal activities in the past, and you have a spotless personal record.

  • Being one of the eligible countries: Your country of origin or permanent residence must be on the list of visa-exempt countries issued by the IRCC. Alternatively, possessing a valid U.S. nonimmigrant visa is still acceptable. 

Start-up business visa in Canada 

What is a start-up business visa in Canada?

The start-up business visa in Canada offers an exquisite chance for ambitious business magnates seeking a prosperous future by establishing a company on a global scale. This immigration program is designed to encourage skilled entrepreneurs to settle and start their businesses in the country. 

With this visionary program, the Canadian authority aspires to elevate the business landscape and cultivate a flourishing economy by nurturing innovative enterprises. 

business visa canada 2023 - the start-up business visa in Canada

The start-up business visa in Canada

What are the advantages of the start-up business visa in Canada? 

When considering which type of business visa Canada in 2023 is most fond of, it must be the start-up visa, as it offers the most advantages over others. To know why, find out the answer in the information provided below.

  • A pathway to permanent residency: The most standout advantage of the start-up visa program is its provision of a clear pathway to permanent residency in Canada. Successful applicants have the opportunity to become permanent residents, enabling them and their families to live and work in Canada indefinitely.

  • Access to a thriving start-up ecosystem: Eligible start-up visa program entrepreneurs can access Canada's thriving and dynamic business environment, complete with numerous international economic and financial hubs. They can acquire a range of valuable assistance, mentorship, and resources to foster the growth of their businesses.

  • Financial backing: Approved applicants of the start-up visa are eligible to receive financial support from designated Canadian investment organizations. These organizations can provide funding to assist entrepreneurs in establishing and expanding their businesses within Canada.

  • No minimum personal investment required: The start-up visa program does not require applicants to make a minimum personal investment in their business. Instead, they only need to secure a commitment from a designated Canadian investment organization. 

  • Inclusion of business partners: The start-up visa program allows multiple entrepreneurs to apply with the same business concept, as long as each applicant meets the criteria. This means that co-founders can apply together, which can be beneficial for collaboration and pooling resources.

  • Exposure to a diverse market: When establishing a start-up in Canada, entrepreneurs can tap into this diverse market and gain access to various demographic groups.

The requirements for a start-up business visa in Canada 

Now that you've learned about the benefits of a start-up business visa. If you are eager to apply, your task now is to carefully consider and meet all the requirements listed below. 

  • Having a qualified business: You must own more than 10% of the total voting rights among all company shares. Or both you and the designated entity own together no less than 50% of all the voting rights in the company shares.  

  • Receive a commitment: You must obtain a commitment endorsed by designated organizations, such as an angel investor, venture capital fund, or business incubator. 

  • Language proficiency: It is mandatory to have successfully undertaken a language test in either English or French and have met the minimum criteria. The assessment must be administered by an accredited organization, and the result should demonstrate a proficiency level of 5 in all language skills. 

  • Financial capabilities: The Canadian government does not extend financial assistance to applicants for the Canada start-up visa. Hence, you must have sufficient funds to financially support yourself and your dependents before arriving in the country.

  • Letter of support: It is required for you to draft a letter of support showcasing that your business idea has received approval from a recognized entity in Canada.

  • Having great well-being and being lucid: You must maintain a healthy body condition that allows you to move normally. Additionally, you must have a sound mind that faces no psychological problems. 

  • Absence of severe illness: You should not have any infectious diseases that could pose a risk to the general community or public. 

  • No criminal record: You should not have been involved in criminal activities in the past, and you have a spotless personal record.

Intra-company transfer business visa in Canada

What is the intra-company transfer business visa in Canada?

The intra-company transfer business visa in Canada is a work permit that allows multinational companies to bring their qualified employees from overseas branches to work in the country. The visa is intended to facilitate the relocation of expertise, talents, or essential staff members from these global companies to newly formed Canadian branches. 

It is now provided by the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations, and further provisions involve international trade agreements for citizens of countries that have signed these agreements.

What are the advantages of the intra-company transfer business visa in Canada

The intra-company transfer business visa in Canada offers a variety of advantages to both employers and employees. Let's enjoy the exciting benefits that lie ahead.

  • Encouraging mobility: With the intra-company transfer business visa in Canada, employees can easily move within the same company, whether it's from an international branch to a Canadian one or vice versa. This helps promote intra-company mobility and gives companies a more adaptable workforce.

  • Streamlined application process: The intra-company transfer business visa in Canada has a simplified and expedited application process compared to other work visa categories. It is designed to reduce the administrative burden on companies and help transfer key personnel swiftly. 

  • No labor market impact assessment (LMIA) required: Unlike many other work permits, the intra-company transfer business visa in Canada does not require a labor market impact assessment. This means that employers do not need to prove a shortage of Canadian workers to hire foreign employees.

  • Empowering spouse work permit: In certain cases, the spouses or common-law partners of visa holders can obtain an open work permit. This means they have the freedom to work for any employer in Canada, helping to bring employees and their families to the country. 

  • A pathway to permanent residency: While the intra-company transfer business visa in Canada is a temporary work permit, it opens doors to permanent residency in Canada. Through the program, employees can gain valuable Canadian work experience, making them eligible for other immigration programs. 

business visa canada in 2023 - various advantages of the intra-company transfer business visa in Canada

Various advantages of the intra-company transfer business visa in Canada

The requirements for an intra-company transfer business visa in Canada

Passing the assessment phase of the intra-company transfer business visa in Canada is a significant achievement that brings you closer to being a part of this exceptional program. Take it easy, and familiarize yourself with the requirements you need to meet.

  • Job offer requirement: You should have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer that is a branch, subsidiary, or parent company of your current employer.

  • Work experience requirement: You must have a minimum of one year of continuous full-time work experience in your current company.

  • Qualifying job position: Your job position in Canada must fall into one of the qualifying categories, which include executive, managerial, or specialized knowledge.

  • Existing relationship: You should have a genuine and continuing relationship with the Canadian employer. 

  • Temporary stay: As the intra-company transfer business visa is for temporary stays, you must commit that you will leave Canada once your work assignment is completed.

  • No labor displacement: You need to demonstrate that your transfer to Canada will not pose any negative effect on the labor market for Canadian citizens or permanent residents.

  • Having great well-being and being lucid: You must maintain a healthy body condition that allows you to move normally. Additionally, you must have a sound mind that faces no psychological problems. 

  • Absence of severe illness: You should not have any infectious diseases that could pose a risk to the general community or public. 

  • No criminal record: You should not have been involved in criminal activities in the past, and you have a spotless personal record.

Provincial nominee business visa in Canada 

What is the provincial nominee business visa in Canada?

The provincial nominee business visa, also known as the business immigration visa, is a means for entrepreneurs seeking to start or invest in a Canadian business. The program aims to attract foreign firms to locate their operations in the country, thereby bolstering the provincial economy and workforce. 

Under this visa, provinces nominate individuals who possess the necessary skill sets and the intention of establishing or investing in Canada to settle in that province. Different provinces and territories will have their own unique set of prerequisites and standards.

What are the advantages of the provincial nominee business visa in Canada? 

There are a plethora of advantages that applicants can gain from the provincial business visa in Canada. Here are some of its most notable ones. 

  • Plenty of career opportunities: Some provinces or territories have been offering immense nominations in a wide range of fields. With this, you can select your preferred location and apply for a job that aligns with your job objectives.

  • Assistance in job search: Certain provinces or territories might lend a hand to newcomers in their quest for employment. This is highly beneficial as it facilitates their adjustment and familiarity with the Canadian work culture.

  • No job offer is required: The provincial nominee business visa in Canada does not compulse individuals to have a job offer. This creates more opportunities for skilled professionals and businesses to explore Canada without the pressure of securing a job beforehand.

  • Fast-track immigration process: The provincial nominee business visa in Canada offers a more expedited immigration process compared to other pathways. You may benefit from priority processing of your visa application once nominated by a province or territory. 

  • Additional points for Express Entry: If you receive a nomination from a province and subsequently submit an Express Entry profile, you gain extra points towards your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. This greatly enhances your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence in Canada.

The requirements for a provincial nominee business visa in Canada 

The requirements for a provincial nominee business visa in Canada are widely regarded as the most challenging to meet. Follow the upcoming list to understand just how strict they are.

  • Age requirements: There is generally no specific age requirement for the provincial nominee business visa. However, some provinces may give preference to younger applicants. The ideal age range is between 18 and 49 years old.

  • Business plan: You are expected to craft a business plan to elaborate on the type of business being purchased or established. Additionally, the plan should include comprehensive financial projections that demonstrate how the business will be used. 

  • Minimum investment: You have to make the minimum investment required by the specific provinces and territories.

  • Business experience: You should have a minimum of two years of experience in business management or company management.

  • Minimum net worth: You must have a minimum net worth as determined by the province you are applying to. 

  • Language proficiency: You must have completed a language test, such as IELTS or CELPIP, with a minimum level of 5. Besides, the test should have been taken within the past two years. 

  • Qualifications: You must provide an educational credential assessment (ECA) to verify your educational background and level of education.

  • Having great well-being and being lucid: You must maintain a healthy body condition that allows you to move normally. Additionally, you must have a sound mind that faces no psychological problems. 

  • Absence of severe illness: You should not have any infectious diseases that could pose a risk to the general community or public. 

  • No criminal record: You should not have been involved in criminal activities in the past, and you have a spotless personal record.

WHAT IS NEW IN A CANADA BUSINESS VISA IN 2023?

Several improvements have been made in the policy of the Canada business visa in 2023, particularly with regards to E-visa, or eTA, and the start-up visa. Take a closer look at these updates in the following and explore what they mean to you.

Number of visa-exempt countries in the Canada business E-visa in 2023

In the past, the business E-visa in Canada has granted exemptions to a few countries around the world. At present, the authority has expanded the opportunities for the Canada business visa in 2023 by including 13 additional nations on the eTA list.

Refinements to the scheme of the Canada start-up business visa in 2023 

The IRCC has recently unveiled a series of groundbreaking decisions regarding the Canada start-up business visa in 2023. Brace yourself for all the incredible changes you must know.

  • The Canada business visa in 2023 is all set to open out its availability and welcome around 3500 participants. But that's not all, as there are even more exciting plans for further expansions in 2024 and 2025.

  • The duration of the stay with work permits has been extended to three years.

  • Work permits will no longer be restricted to a particular company but will be accessible to the entire network from all enterprises around the world. 

  • The eligibility criteria for work permits have been loosened to include the entire entrepreneurial team, removing the previous limitations on personnel.

  • The processing of applications shall prioritize those blessed with the support of capital commitments or incubators affiliated with Canada's Tech Network.

business visa Canada 2 - Some revisions for the business visa canada in 2023

Some revisions for the Canada business visa in 2023

To summarize, the Canada business visa in 2023 is a great opportunity for prospective professionals and entrepreneurs to partake in the business sector in Canada. This has been a cherished dream of ambitious businessmen for a considerable period, envisioning a bright future when working in the country and obtaining immigration approval with this visa. 

By participating in some of the offered programs, you are awarded a multitude of benefits that empower your business growth and full-blown potential. Nurture your passion and begin building an operation in the country today. 

If there is anything you'd like to ask, please feel free to drop us an email at [email protected]. We will review and respond to your question as fast as possible. 

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