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Canada is often seen as America’s little brother, though don’t let any Canadians hear you say that. The country is a massive hub for international business, but for a successful business trip to Canada, it is important to prepare a few things in advance, such as getting your eTA sorted out.
Canada is an important market
The image of Canada as a remote country full of beautiful nature but with little economic activity is long gone. The country is in the top 20 of the most prosperous countries in the world and is known as one of the most developed social market economies on the planet. Furthermore, the country enjoys many economic freedoms. For example, it is relatively easy to do business or make investments in the country.
Especially since the conclusion of the CETA free trade agreement between Canada and the EU, trade with European countries has increased significantly. More than 700 British companies are based in Canada, so it is quite possible that you will soon be going on a business trip to this North American country. Here you can read important tips for your business trip to Canada, such as the best type of visa to apply for.
Travelling to Canada with an eTA
Since autumn 2021, it is again possible for tourists and business travellers to travel to Canada. However, travellers need a visa and observe the coronavirus rules. The eTA for Canada can easily be applied for online. An eTA for Canada is valid for five years and allows travellers to travel to Canada as often as they wish. Each stay may last up to six months. The eTA Canada application allows you to avoid the lengthy and expensive visa application process.
Doing Business in Canada
It is very important that you keep a few tips and guidelines in mind before your business trip. First, you should be aware that Canada is a bilingual country. A smaller portion of the population in the eastern part of the country is French-speaking and a larger portion is English-speaking. If you are doing business with a French-speaking partner, it is very much appreciated if you can negotiate in French, as the language is often a big part of the identity of the inhabitants here.
Canadians are often not very direct, but they are open and polite. Try to avoid conflicts as much as possible. Small talk is very much appreciated at the beginning of a business meeting. Good conversation topics include the national sports of ice hockey and curling. During a business conversation, it is better to avoid body contact apart from shaking hands. Also, the topic of the relationship between the English-speaking and the French-speaking parts is often inappropriate in business conversations. Especially comparisons between America and Canada are best avoided.
COVID-19 rules in Canada
A business trip to Canada can be very successful if you follow certain rules of conduct. Canadians are often very open and interested in other countries. The most important thing is to always be respectful and polite.
In addition to the eTA, there are a number of coronavirus rules that business travellers should take into account. For entry, a valid vaccination certificate must be shown and a pre-departure test is also required. If you are in possession of a vaccination certificate, a test certificate and an eTA, you’re all set to head to Canada.
David Prior
David Prior is the editor of Today News, responsible for the overall editorial strategy. He is an NCTJ-qualified journalist with over 20 years’ experience, and is also editor of the award-winning hyperlocal news title Altrincham Today. His LinkedIn profile is here.
