TRAVEL VISA INFORMATION

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Step-by-Step Registration/ Visa Process:
1. Purchase a registration
2. Find out if you need a visa to travel to Canada
3. If so, request a visa invitation letter by clicking here and inputting necessary information. Incomplete forms will not be accepted
4. You can instantly download your personalized Letter of Invitation to include with your visa application for travel to Canada.
5. Determine if you need to provide biometrics (https://ircc.canada.ca/english/visit/biometrics.asp).  If you are required you must submit your biometrics (pay fee, receive instructions letter, go to official biometrics collection site to provide your fingerprints and photo) **PROVIDING YOUR BIOMETRICS MUST BE COMPLETED PRIOR TO SUBMITTING YOUR VISA APPLICATION**
6. Submit your Canadian Visa Application by following the IRCC Secure Network application instructions provided by ISPRM.  You must follow these instructions to receive access to the streamlined processing service.
7. Email your legal name, the country that issued your passport, and your Canadian visa application id (Vxxxxxx) to isprm2026@physiatry.org. Failure to complete this step may delay the processing of your visa application.

Visa Eligibility Criteria
The applicant must meet all the eligibility criteria to receive a visa.

Letter of Invitation Request
ISPRM 2026 can provide a letter stating your intent to attend the 20th World Congress of the ISPRM, which may assist you in obtaining your travel visa. Attendees may require a visa letter of invitation during the registration process and this can be obtained by submitting your information via a web form. Attendees must register and pay in full prior to requesting a visa letter. Visa letters are only available to attendees who have paid for the event registration in full. Those who canceled their registration will not be eligible for the letter.

Special Event Code
ISPRM 2026 is a registered event with the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Events registered with IRCC are issued a unique special event code to help track and monitor visa processing. Applicants should tag their applications with the event’s special event code, which can be found in the letter of invitation provided by the event organizer. While a special event code has been assigned to the event, it does not offer any advantage to the applicant, in terms of a positive visa outcome.

Submitting a Visa Application Online - How to apply:
1. If you need a Visa, apply online through the IRCC Portal (TReApp).

2. When asked “why you need a visa”, select “for business reasons, like a meeting, conference, event, or training.”

3. Tag your application with the special event code found in your letter of invitation. To request for a letter of invitation, please click here. In the “special event information” section, you are asked if the IRCC has givent the organization or conference a special event code - select “yes” and then enter the special event code into the open text field.

4. If you are required to complete biometrics, you will be issued a Biometrics Instruction Letter (BIL). Please schedule your appointment as soon as you receive your BIL. You must complete your biometrics before IRCC can start to process your application.

5. Check your application status by visiting here. If your visa application is approved, you will receive a letter instructing you to submit your passport to the closest Visa Application Centre (VAC) through mail or courier. Note: you will not be able to enter Canada without having your visa affixed to your passport.

Paper Visa Application
If you cannot apply online because of a disability or are traveling with an identity/travel document that was issued to a refugee, a stateless person, or a non-citizen, read the instruction guide for details on how to apply by paper. Select your country/territory from the drop-down menu for instructions on how to prepare and submit your application to your local visa office.

Guidance to Strengthen Visa Applications
Unfortunately, IRCC may deny applications if they are not satisfied that the applicant will leave Canada after the conference. We strongly encourage applicants to submit additional supporting documentation to reduce any concern about intent to remain in Canada. We also recommend using a Visa Application Centre (VAC). To find the nearest VAC, visit:
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/contact-ircc/offices/find-visa-application-centre.html

Recommended supporting documentation:
1. Proof of strong ties to home country
Applicants must demonstrate compelling reasons to return home, such as:
Proof of stable employment (including a detailed employer letter granting permission to attend the conference and outlining position, credentials, years of service, and reliability)
Evidence of property or housing (mortgage or rental agreement)
Financial obligations (car loan, utility bills, etc.)
Family ties

2. Proof of intent to leave Canada after the visit
Documentation showing responsibilities that require return (family obligations, scheduled medical appointments, professional commitments, etc.)

3. Proof of sufficient funds
Recent bank statements showing sufficient funds (typically CAD $10,000–$15,000, depending on length of stay and accommodations)
If needed, funds may be temporarily transferred by a family member or friend so they are visible in the applicant’s personal account

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eTA Eligibility Criteria
Visa-exempt (eTA eligible) travelers need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to board their flight to Canada. However, these travelers do not need an eTA if entering by land or sea – for instance driving from the U.S. or coming by bus, train, or boat, including cruise ship.

Submit an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) Application Online - How to apply:
1. If you need an eTA, apply using the online form.
2. Pay the appropriate fee.
3. Receive an email from IRCC about your eTA application.
4. If there are any issues with your application, you will receive an email from IRCC requesting additional information.
For more information about how to apply for the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) click here or use the eTA help guide.


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Registration Confirmation
If you need another copy of your registration confirmation email, please contact our registration team at ISPRM2026@physiatry.org.

More Information
For more information about the Visa and eTA application process, see: Visit Canada or refer to the guide for more information on how to complete your application. For further assistance regarding Visas or eTA, see the Help Centre or complete the Web Form.