Travelling on business is a necessity for many French professionals. When your destination is Canada, you will need certain authorisations to enter the country legally. Is it possible to apply for a Canadian AVE for a business trip? That's the question we explore here.
The Canadian Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA): A brief introduction
Electronic Travel Authorisation (AVE) is an entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals travelling by air to Canada. It enables the Canadian authorities to determine travellers' admissibility before they arrive.
Why do I need an EVA?
The EVA aims to provide an additional level of security to protect Canadian citizens. French nationals planning to visit Canada for tourism, work or transit by air must apply for an EVA.
How do I apply for a Canadian EVA?
The procedure for applying for an EVA is relatively quick and straightforward. Here are the key steps to make the process easier:
- Fill in the online form available with our services.
- Pay application fees mainly by credit/debit card.
- Receive an e-mail response within a few minutes and up to 72 hours.
Documents required for the application
Before you apply, make sure you have the following documents:
- A passport valid for the duration of your stay .
- A means of payment (mainly credit cards).
- An e-mail address where to receive approval/confirmation of the AVE.
Conditions of eligibility for the AVE
The AVE is specifically intended for citizens of visa-exempt countries such as France. Some additional conditions:
Business travel eligibility
Yes, it is possible to apply for an AVE for a business trip. The AVE covers several reasons for travel, such as :
- Attend a business meeting or conference.
- Follow a short course less than six months old.
- Meet potential business partners.
Period of validity
The AVE is generally valid for five years or until the expiry date of the passport used for the application. It allows short stays; however, each stay may not exceed six consecutive months.
Differences between the AVE and other visitor visas
There are various options for entering Canada, depending on the purpose of your trip. Let's compare the AVE with other types of visitor visas:
Comparison with the Temporary Resident Visa (TRV)
VRT also applies to short stays, but requires a much more exhaustive procedure than the AVE. Whatever the duration, it is ideal if the reason goes beyond a simple consultation or attendance at professional events.
VIPs (Diplomatic and Official Visas)
Diplomatic personalities have their own specific procedures, which differ from those normally applied. AVE and VRT.
Practical advice to avoid common mistakes when making an application
Although the application may seem straightforward, there are a number of mistakes that can slow down the process:
Incorrect information
Providing inaccurate information is the most common mistake. Always check details captured (such as passport number, date of birth, etc.).
Payment rejected
Use a valid credit card and make sure the funds are available to avoid being blocked by refused payments.
French nationals travelling: additional benefits of the AVE
France is one of the countries benefiting from various bilateral agreements that make it easier to obtain an AVE. Here are just a few of the advantages:
- Standardisation of French application forms.
- Enhanced simplicity thanks to optimised user interfaces.
- Express processing for certain profiles verified using biometric data.
Exploring frequently asked questions
For the sake of clarity, let's address a few popular questions:
How long does it take to process an AVE?
Generally, this varies from a few minutes to 72 hours. Check your mailbox and spam filters carefully.
What activities are prohibited under the AVE?
This includes any type of paid work in Canada or long-term enrolment requiring a study permit.
Tips for making the most of your business trip to Canada
To capitalise on the preparation of your business trip:
Advance planning
Plan your itinerary carefully, locate local meeting rooms and networking opportunities.
Estimated budget
Estimate total expenditure in line with the local standard of living and opt preferably for hotels offering business facilities.
With this essential information, travelling to Canada on business has never been easier or more structured!
An agency service 