Welcome to the second article in our Road to Montréal series!

Over the coming weeks, we'll be sharing everything you need to know before attending the 13th International Conference on Geosynthetics (13ICG), from travel advice and accommodation to programme highlights, networking opportunities and tips to help you make the most of your conference experience.

Whether you're attending your first 13ICG or returning to reconnect with colleagues from around the world, our aim is to make your journey to Montréal as straightforward as possible.

Attending the 13th International Conference on Geosynthetics (13ICG) is an opportunity to learn from world-leading experts, discover the latest innovations in geosynthetics, connect with colleagues from across the globe, and experience one of North America's most vibrant cities.

If you're travelling internationally, you may have questions about registration, visas, accommodation, flights or planning your visit. To help make the process as simple as possible, we've put together this step-by-step guide using information provided by the 13ICG Organising Committee.

Step 1: Register for 13ICG

Registering for 13ICG is quick and straightforward.

Simply visit the official registration page and select Register Now. If this is your first visit, you'll be asked to create an account using your email address. Once your account has been created, simply:

• Complete your personal details.
• Select your registration category.
• Add any optional items, including the IGS Handbook at the exclusive conference price of USD $40, short course opportunities and the Gala ticket. 
• Review your registration.
• Complete your secure online payment.

Once your registration has been completed, you'll receive a confirmation email for your records.

Early Registration Rates (available until 31 July 2026)

Register before 31 July 2026 to take advantage of the early registration rates.

Registration CategoryEarly Registration Fee (USD)

• IGS Member (High-Income Countries) $895
• IGS Member (Non-High-Income Countries*) $720
• Student $350
• Non-Member $1,120

*Eligibility is based on the World Bank's High-Income Country classification.

IGS Members receive a 20% discount on full conference registration, making membership an excellent investment before registering.

Your full conference registration includes:

• Access to keynote lectures, plenary sessions and technical presentations
• Entry to the technical exhibition
• Lunches served within the exhibition hall
• Conference networking receptions
• Opportunities to meet geosynthetics professionals from around the world

The conference also offers a range of optional Professional Development Short Courses on 13 September 2026, before the main conference begins. Standard registration is USD $250. IGS Young Members (35 years and under) can register for the Machine Learning & Artificial Intelligence Short Course for USD $50 by requesting a registration code from general@13icg-montreal.org.

Step 2: Secure the IGS Handbook for Just USD $40

While completing your registration, don't miss the opportunity to purchase the IGS Handbook for just USD $40.

Available exclusively during registration at this special conference price, the handbook is an essential reference covering the principles, design, applications and best practices of geosynthetics. Whether you're an engineer, researcher, consultant, contractor or student, it's a valuable resource you'll continue to use long after the conference has finished. 

Step 3: Check Your Travel Visa Requirements

Many delegates travel to Canada every year, but depending on your nationality, you may require either a visitor visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).

The 13ICG website provides detailed guidance, including:

• Information on who requires a visa or eTA.
• Links to official Government of Canada immigration resources.
• Guidance on preparing your application.
• Information for presenters and exhibitors.

If you require a visa, the organisers recommend applying at least four months before the conference, as processing times can vary.

You can view more visa information here. 

Need an Invitation Letter?

If you require an official invitation letter to support your visa application, simply contact the conference organisers at:

general@13icg-montreal.org

They will be happy to provide the necessary documentation to support your application.

Step 4: Book Your Accommodation

The conference organisers have negotiated discounted rates at a selection of official conference hotels located in downtown Montréal.

These hotels offer numerous benefits, including:

• Convenient access to the conference venue.
• Walking distance to restaurants, cafés and attractions.
• Easy access to Montréal's public transport network.
• Opportunities to stay alongside fellow conference delegates.

Many of the recommended hotels are located close to, or directly connected with, the Palais des congrès de Montréal, making your daily journey to the conference simple and convenient.

As discounted room blocks are subject to availability, delegates are encouraged to book their accommodation as early as possible.

You can view the selected Hotels here. 

Step 5: Plan Your Journey to Montréal

Montréal is one of Canada's most accessible international destinations.

Most international delegates will arrive via Montréal–Trudeau International Airport (YUL), which offers connections with major cities around the world.

From the airport, delegates can easily reach downtown Montréal using:

• Airport shuttle and public transport services.
• Taxi services.
• Rideshare providers.
• Car rental.

The conference venue's central location means many attendees will be able to walk from their hotel.

Step 6: Discover the Conference Venue

13ICG will take place at the Palais des congrès de Montréal, one of Canada's premier convention centres.

Located in the heart of downtown Montréal, the venue offers:

• Modern conference facilities.
• Spacious exhibition halls.
• Direct access to Montréal's Underground City.
• Excellent public transport connections.
• Restaurants, cafés, hotels and attractions all within walking distance.

Its central location makes it easy to enjoy everything Montréal has to offer before and after each day of the conference.

Step 7: Accessibility

The organisers are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming conference experience for all attendees.

The conference venue includes accessible entrances, elevators, washrooms and facilities designed to accommodate delegates with accessibility requirements.

If you have specific accessibility needs, the organising committee encourages you to make contact before the conference so appropriate arrangements can be made.

Whether you're attending your first International Conference on Geosynthetics or returning to reconnect with colleagues from around the world, 13ICG promises an outstanding technical programme, invaluable networking opportunities and an unforgettable experience in Montréal.

With comprehensive support available for registration, visas, accommodation and travel planning, attending the conference has never been easier.

This is just the first stop on our Road to Montréal. Over the coming weeks, we'll be sharing more information about the conference programme, keynote speakers, exhibition highlights, networking opportunities and practical travel tips to help you prepare for 13ICG.

Be sure to keep an eye on the IGS Member Portal, our newsletter and our social media channels as we continue our journey to Montréal. We look forward to welcoming you this September!

Helpful Links: 

Register for 13ICG

Conference Programme

Hotels & Accommodation

Travel Visas

Accessibility Information

Conference Venue