Business Visits

A business visa typically enables short-term business visits to the host country. The business visa is usually issued by a consulate of the host country situated in the traveler’s place of residence. On occasion, a visa may be issued either electronically or at the point of entry. A business visa usually enables an individual to enter the host country to perform permitted activities for a specified period of time. In some cases, a treaty or special agreement authorizes entry into the host country without needing to obtain a visa.

Business visitors may participate in activities authorized by the host country within the allotted time of the admission. Generally speaking, business visitors are prohibited from engaging in productive activities, as defined by the host country, and must usually secure a work permit.

Each country defines permissible business visitor activities somewhat differently. In general, permissible business activities may include the following:

Participate in professional meetings, including sales meetings with customers.
Solicit orders, provide product information, negotiate contracts, and resolve issues with customers for sales and marketing personnel.
Negotiate with unrelated third parties who are potential acquisition targets, or negotiate a contract for joint ventures, manufacturing affiliations, joint marketing, sourcing and licensing agreements, particularly for executives and managers.
Represent shareholders or exercise fiduciary oversight of local affiliates or branches, particularly for senior managers or executives.
Conduct internal audits for an affiliated company in the host country.
Participate in training sessions and/or exhibitions and seminars organized by the company, trade organizations, and universities.
In some cases, install equipment and provide warranty & related maintenance to the local office or client.

In order to qualify for business visas, travelers generally must meet the following requirements:

Maintain a residence and an employer outside of the host country. The business visitor must intend to visit the host country for a limited and pre-set time period and may not be subordinated to the management of the entity doing business in the host country.
Receive compensation/salary from the employer in the home country; however, incidental expenses such as hotel room, cost of travel, and meals may usually be paid by the host company.
Have proof of adequate funds to defray expenses while on the business visit.
Have proof of international health insurance.
The period of intended stay must be consistent with the intended purpose of the trip.

The business visa application must usually be submitted to the host country’s consulate having jurisdiction over the traveler’s place of residence.