Conventions, Meetings, Trade Shows and Exhibitions

If you are a meeting planner or show organizer or if you are involved in promoting Canada as a destination for a conference or a convention, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) can help you.

CBSA coordinators with the International Events and Convention Services Program (IECSP) can access a vast network of Government of Canada departments on your behalf and will make sure that you are aware of all the border requirements related to your event early in your planning process.

Additional resources:

• D8 series of memoranda — Information on the legislation, regulations, policies and procedures the CBSA uses to administer temporary imports.

• 27.2 Conventions (Canada Revenue Agency) — Outlines the goods and services tax rebate available to convention sponsors, organizers and exhibitors under the Excise Tax Act.

• RC4160 (Canada Revenue Agency) — Pamphlet on the rebate for tour packages, foreign conventions and non-resident exhibitor purchases.

• Major international events — Information to help coordinate events held in Canada that involve the entry of a large number of people and goods. 

Contact information:

Contacting the IECSP
Contact a coordinator to start your border clearance planning.