Corporate travel

Business Visa: what it is, who needs it & documents

Meetings, conferences, exhibitions and short-term commercial work. Usually needs an invitation letter from the host company.

Typical processing: 3–10 days for e-visas, 2–5 weeks for embassies

What is a business visa?

A business visa covers short business trips — meetings, conferences, trade fairs, negotiating contracts or visiting a partner company. It does not normally allow you to take up employment or be paid by a local employer in the destination country.

An invitation letter from the host company and a covering letter from your employer are commonly requested.
Some destinations issue business visas online; others require an embassy or application-centre appointment.
Multiple-entry business visas are offered by some countries for frequent travellers.

Who needs it

Employees travelling for meetings, site visits or negotiations
Delegates attending conferences, exhibitions or trade fairs
Business owners visiting suppliers or clients abroad

Not for: Taking a job or receiving salary from a company in the destination — that needs a work visa.

Typical documents

A common starting list — the official checklist for your destination always takes priority.

Passport
Invitation letter
Company covering letter
Trade licence copies
Bank statements

Build your document checklist

Destinations with business visa providers

Destination guides where at least one listed provider files this category for Indian passport holders.

Providers that support business visas

24 providers list this category. Fees are sample catalogue figures — confirm the live price on the provider's site.

See all providers

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a business visa and a work visa?

A business visa is for short visits such as meetings and conferences while you remain employed and paid at home. A work visa is for taking up employment in the destination country and usually needs a sponsoring employer.

Do I need an invitation letter?

Many destinations ask for one from the company or event you are visiting. The required format differs by country, so use the official checklist for your destination.

Can I attend a conference on a tourist visa?

Some countries allow it, many do not. The answer depends on the destination's rules — check the official portal before you travel rather than assuming.

Which visa providers handle business visas?

24 providers in the VisaScout catalogue list business visas among their services, including iVisa, VisaHQ, CIBTvisas. Coverage varies by destination and passport — compare them on VisaScout, then apply on the provider's own site or directly on the official portal.