Choose Halifax for any number of reasons; incredible oceanfront views and a walkable downtown core, or its world-class convention centre and thriving cross-sector innovation. No matter the reason, the outcome is always the same: inspired meetings, engaged delegates, and lasting impressions.
Discover Halifax’s extraordinary selection of historic and modern venues and accommodations—all offering versatile settings to host inspiring meetings, unforgettable receptions against the backdrop of our beautiful sea-side city.
Unlock a world of curated supplier partnerships, sustainable planning tools, and exclusive delegate-saving privileges designed to elevate your event and not your budget.
Find the support you need to simplify logistics, maximize ROI, and create a bespoke event that is tailored to your group in a way that only Halifax can. As a Destination Marketing Organization (DMO) we’re here to help every step of the way, free of charge.
For international conferences, it’s important to know where to direct delegates so they can find information about visas and travel documentation, so they can travel smoothly across borders. As a planner hosting an event outside your home country, we want to make sure you have access to the information and programs you need. Below are some highlights for your consideration. If you have any questions, reach out to our team and we can direct you to the right resources.
Travelers to Canada are generally exempt from taxes and duties on personal property they are carrying with them. For more information visit the Canada Border Services Agency.
Exemption from the collection of Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) Foreign (International) conference registration fees are generally exempt from charging HST to their delegates.
We recommend the services of a local Customs Broker to assist with and advise on the temporary importation of supplies and services required for a foreign (international) conference. Please contact Discover Halifax for advice on local custom broker organizations. For more information, visit the Canada Border Services Agency.
International Conference Rebate
As sponsors or organizers of an international convention, you may be entitled to a GST or HST rebate. An international convention is defined as a convention that meets both of the following requirements:
At least 75% of the expected delegates planning to attend the conference will be arriving from outside of Canada.
The sponsor or organizer of the event has a head office outside of Canada (or, if the organization has no head office, then the majority of members of the organization are non-residents.)
International sporting events are ineligible for this rebate. For details about tax rebates, visit the Revenue Canada Agency website. The section titled “GST/HST rebate for sponsors and organizers of foreign conventions” explains in depth what you need to know as an international visitor. To apply for a rebate, use these forms.
Canada has taken significant steps to help ensure international delegates can easily attend international conferences hosted in Canadian cities. By selecting Halifax, delegates benefit from a host country with a transparent, efficient visa system supported by official programs designed to facilitate conference participation.
Visa Requirements
All international travelers to Canada will require a Passport and an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Some travelers may also require a Visa. When planning for your conference in Halifax, it is important to consider visa requirements for participants coming from various countries. Generally, the Visa process involves:
Completing an Online Application: Participants must fill out an online visa application form available on the Government of Canada’s immigration website.
Providing Supporting Documents: This typically includes a valid passport, proof of financial support, and an invitation letter from the conference organizers.
Paying the Visa Processing Fee: The fee varies based on the type of visa and the applicant’s nationality.
Biometric Information: Participants from certain countries may need to provide biometric information (fingerprints and photos).
The specific requirements can vary depending on the participant’s country of origin. Please refer to the Canadian Government website for entry requirements by country for further details.
While Canada generally provides a straightforward process for visa applications, some issues may arise for participants from certain countries. Common causes:
Processing Time: Approvals take time, so apply well in advance of the conference.
Documentation requirements: Incomplete financial proofs or unclear invitation letters.
Biometric requirements: When required, it can add an extra step.
Travel restrictions: Political or diplomatic issues could affect visa approvals .
Conference registration
We can help you complete the Notice of an International Event or Meeting form at least 6-months before your event start date. This will facilitate other federal and provincial support services for your conference.
Too complicated? We can help
Don’t worry if this all seems like another language. Your Discover Halifax contact will help you through the process and ensure that you get everything you need (and are entitled to)! Contact us today.
