Entering Canada: Tips for Delegates
• All visitors must have valid travel documents and identification to enter Canada, such as a passport or visa.
• Requirements may vary depending on the country you’re travelling from — or transiting through.
• Visa-exempt foreign nationals (excluding U.S. citizens) must apply online for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), ideally prior to booking their flight to Canada.
• Visa-required foreign nationals must submit fingerprints and a photo (biometrics) to acquire their visa for travel to Canada.
The IMS strongly recommend that all delegates check as soon as possible the rules for entering Canada from their respective countries/passport on which they will travel to Canada. If a visa is required, we also strongly recommend that visas be requested as soon as possible.
Do You Need an ETA?
An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is now a mandatory requirement for all visa-exempt foreign nationals travelling to Canada by air, with the exception of U.S. citizens or travelers with a valid Canadian visa.
If you need an eTA, it’s best to apply for your eTA before booking your flight to Canada.
In most cases, applicants will receive an approved eTA within minutes of applying. However, some requests may take several days to process. If this applies, you will receive an email from CBSA within 72 hours of applying that will explain what the next steps are.
APPLY ONLINE
Visa Invitation Letters
Visa invitation letters can be requested through the link in your registration confirmation email. You will be able to enter your passport details to generate a customized visa invitation letter.
The CBSA offers an International Events and Convention Services Program (IECSP) that administers a special event code for international event organizers to share with visa-required participants. This event code will be included in your visa invitation letter and allows for the coordination of visa application processing.
Please note, this special event code does not expedite the visa application process or guarantee entry for event participants. We encourage participants who need visas to apply as early as possible.