Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) Canada
Intra-Company Transfer Canada
The Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) program allows multinational companies to temporarily transfer qualified employees from an overseas branch, subsidiary, or affiliate to their Canadian operations. This program is part of the International Mobility Program and provides an LMIA-exempt pathway for skilled employees, executives, and managers.
ICT work permits are faster to process, cost-effective, and help companies bring critical talent to Canada while benefiting the Canadian economy.
Why Choose ICT in Canada?
- LMIA-Exempt Work Permit: No Labour Market Impact Assessment required (IRPA paragraph R205(a), exemption code C12; R204(a) LMIA exemption code T24 for FTA countries).
- Shorter Processing Time: Work permits can be issued quickly via visa office, online, or port of entry.
- Family Benefits: Spouses receive open work permits; children can study in public schools and receive provincial health coverage.
- Pathway to Permanent Residence: Canadian work experience under ICT boosts Express Entry CRS points and eligibility for permanent residence.
Who Qualifies for an ICT?
Companies
The Canadian and foreign entities must have a qualifying relationship:
- Parent company owns and controls a Canadian subsidiary, branch, or affiliate.
- Subsidiary: Parent owns ≥50% or controls joint venture.
- Branch: Operating division of the foreign company in Canada.
- Affiliate: Two companies owned and controlled by the same parent or group.
The Canadian entity must be operational and actively conducting business. Evidence includes:
- Articles of incorporation
- Partnership agreements
- Registration with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)
Employees
1 year full-time with foreign entity in past 3 years. Eligible categories:
- Executives: Senior management with authority to set corporate policies.
- Senior Managers: Managers supervising other managers or workers.
- Specialized Knowledge Workers: Possess proprietary or unique knowledge vital to the company’s operations.
Key requirements:
- Education relevant to current and intended role
- Documented specialized knowledge or unique expertise
- Experience aligning with claimed skills
- Salary comparable to Canadian market
- Supporting documentation (resume, reference letters, proof of achievements)
Work Permit Duration & Extensions
- Executives & Senior Managers: Up to 3 years initially; extensions possible up to 7 years.
- Specialized Knowledge Workers: Up to 1 year initially; extensions possible up to 5 years.
- Extensions require:
- Ongoing relationship between foreign and Canadian companies
- Canadian office operational with continuous business
- Staffing consistent with business plan
Benefits of ICT Work Permit in Canada
- Seamless Global Integration: Aligns Canadian branch with corporate practices.
- Retention of Talent: Offers international career growth opportunities.
- Cost Efficiency: Reduces recruitment and training costs.
- Knowledge Transfer: Enhances Canadian workforce skills and market competitiveness.
- Compliance & Risk Management: Ensures full adherence to immigration laws.
Pathway to Permanent Residence
ICT experience can boost eligibility for Express Entry programs:
- Canadian work experience counts for the Canadian Experience Class.
- CRS Points Boost:
- 50 points for skilled job (NOC 0, A, B)
- 200 points for senior managerial role (NOC 00)
- Steps:
- Create Express Entry profile
- Receive Invitation to Apply (ITA)
- Submit permanent residence application
How to Apply for ICT Canada
- Verify Eligibility: Employee role, experience, and company relationships.
- Gather Documents:
- Employment verification and reference letters
- Job description and organizational chart
- Proof of Canadian and foreign company registration
- Evidence of specialized knowledge (if applicable)
- Choose Application Method: Online, visa office, or port of entry
- Submit Application: Complete forms and supporting documentation
- Medical Exam & Biometrics: If required, complete after submission
- Track Application & Receive Decision: IRCC processes applications in 2–10 weeks
How We Can Help
- Eligibility assessment for employee and company
- Document preparation and submission
- Work permit applications and extensions
- Express Entry and permanent residence planning
Free Assessment – Check if you qualify for an ICT work permit today!
Frequently Asked Questions
It allows foreign employees to work in Canada temporarily at a Canadian branch, subsidiary, or affiliate without an LMIA.
Executives, senior managers, and specialized knowledge workers who’ve worked full-time for the foreign company for at least 1 year in the last 3 years.
Yes. Spouses get open work permits, children can study in public schools, and the family qualifies for provincial health coverage.
Executives & managers: up to 7 years; specialized knowledge workers: up to 5 years.
Yes, functional English or French is needed. For Express Entry, IELTS 6 bands per module is required.
Yes. After one year in Canada, employees may apply via Express Entry and earn CRS points for skilled jobs or senior management roles.
Typically 2–10 weeks depending on visa office and circumstances.
Not usually, unless long-term stay or requested by the visa office.
Yes, if the Canadian and foreign companies maintain a qualifying relationship and the Canadian office meets operational requirements.
Take the Next Step
Book Your Consultation Today – Personalized guidance from a licensed consultant.
Get Your Free Eligibility Assessment – Ensure you meet all ICT requirements