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Visa Information for Delegates & Participants

Delegates participating in events in Canada should consult the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada website for information and a complete list of countries whose citizens require a visa to enter Canada. In addition, depending on their citizenship, some delegates may also be required to provide biometrics information as part of their visa application. Biometrics information can be provided at a Visa Application Centre (VAC).

Participants are strongly encouraged to submit their visa applications well in advance of the event at a Visa Application Centre, on-line E-applications (e-Apps) or by mail (please consult the visa office in your country of residence to determine if this service is available to you). For complete information on the requirements and the process to obtain a visa visit the website of the visa office responsible for processing your visa application. 

Delegates, who need a visa, but require their passports for other travel are strongly encouraged to submit their visa applications on-line (e-Apps). Delegates who choose to apply on-line will not have to submit their passport until a decision has been taken on their application.  If required, the visa office will send the applicant instructions on how and where to send the passport to finalize the visa application.  

Participants are encouraged to submit their visa application 12 weeks in advance of the event.

Find out if you need an eTA

eTA is a new entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals travelling to Canada by air. This entry requirement is mandatory. It will allow Canada to screen travelers before they arrive. The authorization is electronically linked to your passport and is valid for five years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.

For information on the approximate time it will take to process your visa application visit the IRCC website.