Overview
The Inter-Company Transfer (ICT) work permit allows multinational companies to temporarily transfer key employees to their Canadian offices.
This program is designed to strengthen business operations, facilitate the exchange of expertise, and support economic growth in Canada.
With no requirement for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), the ICT work permit offers a streamlined process for eligible businesses and employees.
Eligibility
To fit the bill for a LMIA-exclusion as an intra-organization transferee, both the worker and the organization need to meet a few necessities.
Requirements for the Employee
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Should be utilized at a worldwide organization looking for a section to Canada to work at the organization's parent, auxiliary, branch, or partner.
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The representative should apply to work in Canada in a situation at the executive level, senior managerial position, or in a position requiring specialized knowledge.
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Probably been utilized with the organization for somewhere around 1 year (full-time) with the organization inside the past 3 years.
Requirements for the
Multinational Company
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The Canadian enterprise must be the company’s second foreign office.
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The enterprise in Canada and the enterprise outside Canada must share one of the following relationships: parent, subsidiary, branch, or affiliate.
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Both enterprises must be actively conducting business, which involves the regular and continuous provision of goods or services. Simply having a physical location in Canada is not enough to satisfy this requirement.
ICT Work Permit
Application Process
Applicants under the ICT dependent visa Canada category must follow these steps:​​
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Register the business in Canada as a parent, affiliate, or subsidiary of the foreign company.
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Obtain an employment number or valid authorization from the Immigration Program Guidance Branch (IPG) to submit the IMM 5802 form.
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Pay the employer compliance fee.
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Submit the work permit application.​​​
Once approved, successful applicants will receive their work permits.
Processing Time
Processing times for the ICT work permit vary depending on the applicant’s country of residence and the volume of applications. On average, it takes 1 - 2 months to process an ICT work permit. Submitting a complete and accurate application can help avoid delays.
Common Challenges in Applying
for ICT Work Permit
Providing sufficient proof of the employee’s qualifications and role
Demonstrating the relationship between the Canadian and foreign entities
Ensuring the company’s Canadian operations meet program requirements
Avoiding application errors that could lead to delays or rejections.
FAQ
01.
What is the purpose of the ICT work permit?
The ICT work permit facilitates the transfer of key personnel to a Canadian office to enhance business operations and support economic growth.
02.
Do I need an LMIA for the ICT work permit?
No, the ICT work permit does not require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
03.
How long is the ICT work permit valid?
The permit is initially valid for 1 year but can be renewed based on the company’s needs and compliance with program requirements.
04.
Can my family accompany me to Canada?
Yes, your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children can accompany you. They may also be eligible for open work or study permits.
05.
Is there a limit on the number of employees a company can transfer?
There is no set limit, but each transfer must meet program requirements and demonstrate a benefit to the Canadian operations.
06.
What is considered “specialized knowledge”?
Specialized knowledge refers to advanced expertise of the company’s proprietary processes, products, or services that is critical to its operations.
07.
Can I apply for permanent residency after working on an ICT work permit?
Yes, time spent on an ICT work permit can support eligibility for permanent residency under programs like the Canadian Experience Class.
08.
What documentation is required for the ICT work permit?
Key documents include proof of employment, details of the transfer, evidence of the relationship between entities, and a business plan for the Canadian operations.
09.
Can I switch roles while in Canada on an ICT work permit?
Any change in roles must align with the ICT program requirements and may require an updated work permit.
10.
What happens if my application is refused?
If your application is rejected, you can re-apply with additional documentation or address the issues raised in the rejection letter.
Having a professional consultant will save you a lot of time preparing your application and reduce the chances of rejection.