Overview

The Canadian Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) Visa is part of the International Mobility Program. It allows multinational companies to transfer key employees to their Canadian branch, subsidiary, affiliate, or parent company. The program is designed to support businesses in expanding their operations into Canada while benefiting from global talent.

Key Features

• Visa Type: Temporary Work Permit
• Eligibility: Employees of multinational companies in executive, senior managerial, or specialized knowledge positions.
• Processing Time: 1 to 3 months (varies by country of application).
• Duration: Initial work permit is granted for 1 to 3 years and can be extended.

Eligibility Criteria

1. Business Relationship:
   • The foreign company and the Canadian entity must have a qualifying relationship (parent, subsidiary, branch, or affiliate).
2. Employee Role:
   • Must hold an executive, senior managerial, or specialized knowledge role.
3. Work Experience:
   • Employee must have worked with the company for at least 1 year within the last 3 years.
4. Purpose of Transfer:
   • The transfer must be for a temporary period to contribute to the Canadian entity.

Application Process

1. Establish a Qualifying Relationship:
   • Ensure the foreign and Canadian businesses have the required affiliation.
2. Prepare Documentation:
   • Proof of employment, qualifying business relationship, and the employee’s role.
   • Submit detailed business plans if the Canadian branch is newly established.
3. Apply for Work Permit:
   • Submit the application under the International Mobility Program (IMP).
4. Decision and Work Permit Issuance:
   • If approved, receive a work permit for 1 to 3 years.

Documents Required

1. For the Employer:
   • Business registration and financial statements.
   • Proof of qualifying relationship with the foreign company.
   • Detailed business plan (if a new branch).
2. For the Employee:
   • Employment contract or offer letter.
   • Resume and proof of relevant experience.
   • Passport and travel documents.

Processing Time

• General: 1 to 3 months.
• Global Talent Stream (if applicable): Shorter processing time (2 weeks).

Advantages

1. Business Growth:
   • Facilitates the expansion of multinational companies into Canada.
2. Path to Permanent Residency:
   • Eligible employees can transition to PR through programs like the Express Entry or PNP.
3. Family Benefits:
   • Family members can accompany the employee, with spouses eligible for open work permits and children for study permits.
4. No Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA):
   • LMIA exemption simplifies the application process.
5. Renewability:
   • Work permits can be renewed, up to a maximum of 7 years for executives/managers and 5 years for specialized knowledge workers.