Visa and Travel Information

Depending on where you live, certain entry requirements must be met to visit Canada. While some travelers need only a valid passport, most require a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).

Go to Visit Canada for detailed information on traveling to Canada including eTA’s (electronic travel authorizations), visas, and documents required to enter the country.

US citizens need only a passport—not an eTA—to enter Canada.

Visa-exempt foreign nationals are required to have an eTA. Apply for an eTA on your smartphone or computer. While most eTA applications are approved within minutes, we recommend applying a few weeks before scheduled travel in case additional documents are required.

Processing visa applications can take much more time. Therefore, we recommend beginning the process as early as three to four months before your travel date. A visitor visa (also called a temporary resident visa) is an official document showing that you meet the requirements needed to enter Canada. Apply for a visitor visa online or on paper.

  • Apply early! Apply at least three to four months before your planned travel date.
  • Complete your application fully and accurately.
  • Provide evidence that you intend to return to your country of residence, and/or binding or sufficient ties to your home country or permanent residence abroad.
  • Provide proof of professional scientific and/or educational status, ECS membership, and ECS meeting registration.
  • To receive a letter of invitation on ECS letterhead, request an ECS Letter of Invitation via email.
  • If the application center requires an in-person interview, dress professionally, and prepare for your interview in advance so you can describe your intentions clearly and concisely.

Palais des Congrès de Montréal, 159 St. Antoine West, 9th Floor, Montreal QC H2Z 1H2, Canada

For detailed visitor and travel information about Montréal, click here.

Whether or not you’ve been to Montréal before, get out and explore the city at the meeting day’s end. You won’t be disappointed!

It’s never too early to start thinking about where to eat. With an amazing dining scene that satisfies all tastes and budgets, Montréal is sure to provide memorable meals.

Whether you want to explore the city in your off hours or are bringing friends and family looking for things to do, be sure to check the variety of options available.

The mission of The Electrochemical Society is to advance theory and practice at the forefront of electrochemical and solid state science and technology. To do this, ECS encourages international participation in our meetings. We are happy to assist with your questions about international travel. Contact meetings@electrochem.org today.