The Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) program allows multinational companies to temporarily transfer key employees to their Canadian branch, subsidiary, affiliate, or parent company. This work permit falls under the International Mobility Program (IMP) and is LMIA-exempt, making it an attractive option for businesses expanding into Canada.
Who Can Apply?
- Employees of multinational companies
- Executives, senior managers, and specialized knowledge workers
- Those with at least one year of full-time experience with the foreign employer in the past three years
Key Benefits:
- No LMIA required (Labour Market Impact Assessment)
- Faster processing times than other work permits
- Pathway to permanent residence through Express Entry or PNP
Eligibility Requirements for an ICT Work Permit
1. Company Requirements
The foreign company and its Canadian counterpart must have a qualifying relationship, such as:
- Parent company and subsidiary
- Branch office
- Affiliate relationship
Alse, the Canadian business must be operational and financially stable to support the transfer.
2. Employee Requirements
The applicant must:
- Have worked full-time for at least one year in the past three years with the foreign company
- Hold a senior management, executive, or specialized knowledge position
- Be transferring to a similar or higher-level role in Canada
3. Eligible Job Categories
- Executives – Senior leaders responsible for the company’s overall direction
- Senior Managers – Supervisors overseeing a department or division
- Specialized Knowledge Workers – Employees with proprietary expertise in company products, services, or processes
How to Apply for an Intra-Company Transfer Work Permit
Step 1: Prepare Required Documents
- Job offer letter from the Canadian employer
- Proof of employment (e.g., pay stubs, reference letters)
- Business relationship documents (e.g., incorporation papers)
- Business plan (if opening a new office in Canada)
Step 2: Submit Your Application
- Online through the IRCC portal
- Via a Canadian visa office
- At a port of entry (if eligible, e.g., U.S. visa-exempt nationals)
Step 3: Receive Your ICT Work Permit
Work permits are typically issued for 1 to 3 years, with the possibility of extensions.
ICT for Startups & New Canadian Offices
If the foreign company is expanding into Canada, the ICT applicant must:
- Provide a detailed business plan
- Show financial ability to operate in Canada
- Establish an active Canadian presence within one year
Failure to meet these conditions may result in non-renewal of the work permit.
The Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) program is a strategic way for multinational businesses to transfer key employees to Canada without an LMIA. With faster processing time, and work permit renewals, ICT remains one of the most sought-after work visa options in Canada.
Need Help with Your ICT Application?
Contact us at YA Law, to speak to our experienced immigration lawyer or visit IRCC’s official website for more details.