Summer has seen the resumption of foreign workers in Canada, attracting visitors from across the globe and covering everything from technology to agriculture. Well, it is important for visitors visiting Canada to understand what entry requirements they need to meet in order to participate in foreign events in different capacities. Here are the work permit needs for international conference in Canada. 

Note: The Government of Canada defines a foreign event as an event held by an organization that is located in and conducts business from a nation other than Canada. For example, the Collision Conference in Toronto, Ontario, which is hosted by an organization called Web Summit, is headquartered in Dublin, Ireland. The foreign event draws thousands of international entrepreneurs, investors, and business leaders to Canada annually and is set to take place in Vancouver next year under the new name – ‘Web Summit Vancouver’ from May 27 – 30, 2025. 

Entry Requirements For Attendees  

There are certain work permit needs for international conference in Canada. Entry requirements for attendees of foreign events in Canada are straightforward. Attendees are technically tourists to Canada. Attendees should simply meet entry requirements for visitors – like obtaining a visitor visa or an electronic travel authorization (eTA). 

Entry Requirements For Foreign Service Providers 

Entry requirements for non-Canadiand working foreign events in Canada are more complex. Foreign service providers working under contract for foreign events do not require work permits if they are: 

• event planners
• exhibit managers
• professional conference organizers
• destination marketing company personnel
• event accommodation consultants

However, foreign service providers working under contract to provide the following services do require work permits:

• Installing or dismantling shows/exhibits
• Audio video, staging, or show decorating services
• Lighting, carpet laying, carpentry, or electrical work

What Kind Of Work Permit Is Needed For Service Providers At Foreign Events In Canada? 

Non-Canadian service providers at foreign events in Canada typically do not need an LMIA. Instead, they qualify for an LMIA-exempt work permit, known as the significant benefit work permit.  

To qualify for the LMIA-exempt work permit, you must meet the following requirements: 

• You should be working under contract for a foreign event organizer or exhibitor. 
• You must be providing services like audio-visual services or electrical work 
• You must be supervising and directing local fires at the foreign event

The final requirement is integral. You should prove that your role is supervisory, i.e., you will be overseeing local labor rather than completing all the hands-on work yourself. This is because foreign event organizers and exhibitors are expected to hire Canadians to perform labor on the convention floor. 

Suppose you believe you are eligible for this significant benefit work permit. In that case, your work permit application should address all the key requirements above by including documents like the formal service agreement, your CV/ resume, and more. 

Visa Requirements For Foreign Service Providers and Exhibitors 

In addition to the work permit, foreign service providers working in foreign events in Canada will need valid visitor visas or eTAs. 

Those who are visa-exempt might apply for their work permit at the entry port to Canada. Those who require visas must apply for their work permit online. If you are applying online, it is important to check processing times to ensure you will meet timelines and obtain your work permit before the event. 

If you seek information on how to begin your Canada immigration application process, you can talk to our NavaImmigration experts at 1800-918-8490, or you can drop us an email at [email protected].