Canada VISAS
Please use this section as a guide only.
The advice we give all artists is to speak directly with a professional visa agent and connect with artists that have successfully toured to the countries you are looking to perform in.
GGovernment of Canada guidance notes on entry can be found here: http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/work/apply-who-nopermit.asp
To work in Canada as a performing artist, you don’t need a work permit if:
- you’re a foreign artist or a member of the artist’s key support staff (people vital to the performance)
- you will perform in Canada for a limited period of time
- you’re not being hired for ongoing employment by the Canadian group that has contracted you
- you’re not involved in making a movie, television or radio broadcast
If you are entering into Canada to work for 2 weeks or less, and performing at many venues:
- A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is not required under the International Mobility Program
- A work permit is not required when working in Canada for a “Time-limited engagement”
- Proof of engagement is required upon entry into Canada
Border officials will want to see a performance contract from each venue or festival, however, or an invite from a promoter that clearly states the exact shows and festivals that will be played. You should also know the address and contact information for your accommodations while in Canada.
As a visa-exempt traveller, you do need apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization. An eTA is an entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals travelling to Canada by air. An eTA is electronically linked to a traveller’s passport. It is valid for up to five years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. If you get a new passport, you need to get a new eTA.