Business Visa
Business visas are intended for professionals who travel for commercial or corporate reasons without taking up employment in the destination country. They are essential for attending meetings, trade fairs, conferences, and negotiations — but do not grant permission to work for a local employer.
Most business visas are short-term and limited to activities that serve a foreign-registered company or individual. That includes signing contracts, conducting site inspections, or establishing partnerships. These visas may be single-entry or multi-entry depending on need and frequency of travel.
Common Requirements
- 1Letter of invitation from a host company
Official invitation from the business partner in the destination country
- 2Letter from your employer confirming purpose of visit
Company letter stating your position, purpose of travel, and duration
- 3Travel itinerary and accommodation bookings
Detailed travel plans including meetings, conferences, or site visits
- 4Proof of business credentials or company registration
Documents verifying your company's legitimacy and your role
- 5Evidence of sufficient funds and return ticket
Bank statements and proof of onward/return travel
Corporate Travel with Conditions
Many business travelers mistakenly believe they can perform technical services or consulting on a business visa. In many countries, this is considered unauthorized work and requires a work permit instead.
Permitted Activities
Business visas typically allow:
- Attending business meetings and negotiations
- Participating in conferences, trade shows, and exhibitions
- Conducting site inspections and factory visits
- Signing contracts and agreements
- Meeting with potential clients or partners
- Short-term training sessions (as participant, not trainer)
Prohibited Activities
Business visas do NOT permit:
- Employment with a local company
- Receiving salary from a local source
- Providing paid consulting or technical services
- Performing work that could be done by a local hire
- Long-term business operations without proper registration
Single vs. Multi-Entry
Business visas may be issued as single-entry (one trip only) or multi-entry (multiple trips within a validity period). Multi-entry business visas are ideal for professionals who travel frequently to the same destination for ongoing partnerships, negotiations, or client relationships.
Duration and Validity
Business visas typically allow stays of 30 to 90 days per visit. The visa validity period (how long you can use it to enter) may extend from 6 months to 5 years for multi-entry visas, but each individual stay is still limited by the permitted duration.
Visa Requirements by Country
Explore visa types and entry requirements for each destination