Do I need a visa to travel to Canada?

Most people need a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to travel to Canada - not both. Some people may only need their valid passport. Find out what's right for you here. Conference attendees are considered business visitors.

How long does the visa application process take?
Processing times vary, check the anticipated processing time for your country here. We suggest that you begin the visa application process as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. See here for more information.

Where should I apply for a visa?
Visa applications are done online

Visa Invitation Letter Requirements

A letter of invitation from ACMG is available to include in your visa application if necessary. Contact the ACMG Office to request a letter of invitation via email: jcohen@acmg.net
• Letters of invitation can only be issued for the person attending the meeting.  We cannot issue letters of invitation for guests of participants. Each person must request their own letter; you may not request a letter for someone else. 
• Letters of invitation are addressed to the individual who wishes to attend the event. To expedite the preparation of a letter, please provide the following information in your request:

First Name
Last Name
Institution
Address
City, State, Zip Code
Country
Picture of passport (showing name and picture)
Copy of registration confirmation. If requesting a letter prior to October 3, please attach your resume or provide a link to an online resume or profile. After registration opens on October 3, attendee must be registered for the meeting prior to requesting a letter of invitation.

Note: Obtaining a Letter of Invitation from ACMG will not guarantee that your Canadian visa application will be approved.  The letter is merely supplementary information that explains a visa applicant's intended purpose of travel to Canada.  The decision to issue a visa is the sole judgment of the local Canadian government.    ACMG is unable to assist with actual visa processing.

Should issues arise during the visa process and you are concerned that you may not receive your visa in time for the conference; you should contact the ACMG Office immediately. If you are not able to attend the conference due to visa issues, you can email acmgmeeting@acmg.net to cancel your registration. You will receive a refund minus a 25% processing fee if submitted by February 15, 2024. If submitted after February 15, 2024  you will not receive a refund. Please refer to the Refund Policy on the Registration Page for the full details. 

Pearson International Airport
The ACMG Hotels and the Metro Toronto Convention Center are approximately a 25-minute ride from Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ). For a list of transportation options, see here.

Tips and Tricks to navigate Pearson International Airport

The Union Pearson Express runs from Pearson Airport to Union Station in downtown Toronto in just 25 minutes. Trains run every 15-minutes, seven days a week. Be sure to check the schedules before you travel. The station at Pearson Airport is located in Terminal 1, directly adjacent to the Link Train service linking Terminals 1 and 3. See here for wayfinding videos. Cost is CAD 12.50 one way. Tickets can be bought in advance online, or at a GO station. Discounted tickets are available, use the promo code ACMG24

Why take the UP Express?

• it's fast, reliably a 25 minute trip time between Downtown Toronto and Pearson airport. Trains every 15 minutes.
• it's economical, typically 70% less than taking a taxi or car service. Plus ACMG attendees get a discount, see above.
• it's convenient, right downtown close to the convention center and hotels
• it offers complimentary WiFi and power outlets
• it's sustainable travel that is positive for the environment
• it's safe. trains, platforms and stations are regularly cleaned.
• it offers fully accessible level boarding

App Based Rideshare: Lyft and Uber are legally operating in Toronto and at the airport. Designated pick up areas for these services:

• Terminal 1 – Ground Level – Door Q or P (Map)
• Terminal 3 – Arrivals Level – Door D, outer curb (Map)

Billy Bishop City Airport
Located on Toronto Island, Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport offers service to more than 20 cities in Canada and the U.S. It is serviced by Air Canada and Porter Airlines. Just minutes from downtown, the airport can be accessed through the pedestrian tunnel or by a short trip on the ferry. A free shuttle bus service departs from the mainland terminal and makes several stops downtown, including one near the Metro Toronto Convention Center.

Special Pricing for Attendees from Developing Countries

Reduced registration rates have been approved for attendees from Developing Countries, see the rates here.

Check the list of countries here. To register at the reduced rate, please email acmgmeeting@acmg.net for an invitation code.