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An intra-company transfer (ICT) enables multinational companies to relocate their employees across international borders while remaining within the same organization. This process often involves transferring staff from their home country to a foreign branch, subsidiary, or office of the company.

Canada is a leading destination for such transfers. Through the International Mobility Program (IMP), businesses can temporarily move their highly skilled employees to Canada under the Intra-Company Transferee (ICT Canada) category.

International companies with branches or locations in Canada can apply to transfer their employees to the Canadian office under the ICT program. This process allows for an intra-company transfer visa without the need for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), as the ICT is an LMIA-exempt work permit. Although the LMIA process is relatively straightforward, the ICT program offers a more efficient work permit option that eliminates the LMIA requirement, benefiting the company, the employee, and Canada economically.

Here are the main requirements that both the employee and the company must meet when applying for the ICT program, or International Mobility Programme:

Basic Employee Requirements:

The employee is being transferred to the division as a senior manager, executive, or in a specialized knowledge role.

The employee has been continuously employed by the company, whether on payroll or through another arrangement.

The transfer to Canada is a temporary measure.

The employee meets all immigration requirements for temporary entry into Canada.

The employee holds a valid Canadian visa for a temporary stay.

The employee is currently employed by an international company and is transferring to its Canadian subsidiary, branch, parent company, or affiliate.

The new company has a qualifying relationship with the current employer.

The employee will continue their employment legally with the new company.

Company Requirements for Intra-Company Transfer

• The company must have a secure physical location in Canada to operate effectively. This is crucial for roles involving specialized knowledge. For executives and senior managers, a physical address for a new start-up may be pending.
• The company must provide a detailed plan for hiring additional staff to ensure the smooth operation of the business.
• The company must demonstrate financial stability to establish its operations in Canada and compensate its employees.
• For transferring managers or executives, the company must be, or be on track to become, large enough to support these positions.
• To transfer employees with specialized knowledge, the company must show evidence of its business activities and anticipated growth.
• The company must ensure that its Canadian branch or subsidiary oversees and directs the work operations.

Documentation Required for ICT Canada

To ensure a smooth Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) to Canada, the following documents are required:

• Proof of current employment with a multinational company outside Canada.
• Documentation confirming the employee’s application to work at a Canadian subsidiary, parent company, affiliate, or branch.
• Evidence that the employee has been continuously employed full-time (not part-time) on contract or payroll by an overseas company.
• Proof of at least one year in a similar position.
• A detailed description of the managerial or executive role or specialized knowledge position, including the job title, duties, and organizational role.
• For specialized knowledge positions, evidence that the employee possesses the required expertise and that the Canadian role requires this knowledge.
• A description of the Canadian position, including the job title, responsibilities, and organizational role.

Information regarding the intended duration of the stay in Canada.

A description of the relationship between the foreign enterprise and its Canadian counterpart, including any tangible proof that may be required by the officer.

Canada ICT Visa Processing Time

The processing time for an Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) visa to Canada typically ranges from 2 to 10 weeks. In certain cases, priority processing may be available, with a 2-week processing time for eligible applicants from visa-exempt countries.

Validity of an Intra-Company Transfer Visa

The ICT work permit is valid for one year but may be renewed if:

• The new office is operational and staffed.
• The foreign and Canadian entities continue to maintain a valid and qualifying relationship.
• The new office has been consistently providing products, services, or goods for at least one year.

Benefits of Intra-Company Transfers

Intra-company transfers offer several advantages, which may vary depending on country-specific policies and regulations. Common benefits include:

Enhanced Career Opportunities

Intra-company transfers offer employees the chance to gain international work experience and develop a global mindset, which can significantly benefit their career growth. Employees can explore different cultures, markets, and business practices, expanding their skills and enhancing their career prospects both within their current organization and in future roles.

Knowledge Transfer and Skills Development

Intra-company transfers enable the exchange of expertise and business practices between countries and companies. Employees can share their knowledge and skills with colleagues abroad, fostering a culture of cross-cultural learning. This exchange can lead to improved performance and more effective business operations.

Talent Retention

Intra-company transfers serve as a powerful tool for retaining talent by offering employees opportunities for growth and new challenges without leaving the company. By providing international assignments, companies can retain valuable employees who seek new experiences and career development.

Cost Savings

Intra-company transfers can be more cost-effective than hiring and training local employees in a foreign country. Companies can utilize the skills and experience of their existing staff, reducing recruitment and training costs. Additionally, some countries offer tax benefits and financial incentives to attract foreign talent.

Global Mobility and Business Expansion

Intra-company transfers support global mobility and business expansion. Companies can deploy skilled employees to locations where their expertise is needed, facilitating growth in new markets. This flexibility allows companies to adapt to changing business needs and explore new regions.

Diversity and cultural exchange

Intra-company transfers promote diversity and cultural exchange within the company. Employees who move to different countries are exposed to various cultures and business practices, creating a more inclusive and innovative work environment. This diversity can enhance creativity, teamwork, and overall performance.

Intra-company transfers offer significant advantages for employees, companies, and host countries. It is important to navigate the various regulations and legal requirements, including immigration laws and employee well-being, to ensure a successful transfer.

How Sixxer Migrate Can Help

Sixxer Migrate provides expert support for immigration and Intra-Company transfers. Our team specializes in Canadian visas and immigration-related queries, offering guidance to both employees and companies to ensure a smooth and efficient transfer process.