Canada’s Intra-Company Transfers (ICT) program is a vital component of the country’s immigration framework, designed to facilitate the movement of skilled workers within multinational companies. This program allows companies to transfer key employees from foreign offices to Canadian branches, subsidiaries, or affiliates. This comprehensive guide delves into all aspects of Canada’s ICT program, covering eligibility criteria, application processes, duration, and Cost.
What is Intra Company Transfer?
The ICT program falls under the International Mobility Program, allowing eligible foreign business owners to transfer their businesses to Canada and obtain a work permit.
This pathway facilitates securing an ICT Work Permit with potential progression to permanent residency. In many cases, the principal applicant’s spouse and children may also be eligible for open work and study permits.
While ICT Canada is a viable business immigration option, it’s not the sole program available. You can explore your immigration options through our free instant assessment and seek guidance from our business immigration lawyers in a 60-minute strategy meeting.
Who Can Apply for the ICT Program?
The Intra Company Transfer program targets established companies worldwide, inviting them to expand their operations to Canada. Three categories of individuals stand to benefit:
Business Owners, Entrepreneurs, and Shareholders:
- Currently holding executive positions in their successful companies.
- Intending to perform similar roles in Canada.
Senior and Functional Managers
- Currently employed in a foreign company.
- Planning to assume comparable positions in Canada.
Key Employees with Specialized Knowledge
- Holding unique or uncommon advanced specialized knowledge.
- Applicants within these categories must meet the requirements outlined below to secure a work permit under the ICT program.
Intra-Company Transfer Canada Requirements
Entrepreneurs aiming to expand their businesses to Canada through the ICT program must fulfill specific criteria, including:
- The home company must be operational for at least 12 months (preferably three years) before expanding to Canada.
- The financial stability of the home company will support foreign operations in Canada.
- The applicant must have worked with the home company for at least 12 months in the past three years.
- The home company must have a relationship with the Canadian company as a parent, subsidiary, or affiliate.
- Canadian operations must be a viable enterprise leading to job creation for Canadians.
For initial expansions, officers assess factors such as a sound business plan, potential job creation for Canadians, and the necessity of an executive or manager in Canada. First-time applicants must present a compelling business case and rationale for expansion and meet essential ICT eligibility criteria.
What are the Canada intra-company transfer visa documents?
Below is a detailed list of the Canada Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) visa documents required for a successful application. It’s important to note that specific requirements may vary, and applicants should always refer to the latest guidelines from the Canadian immigration authorities.
Overseas Entity Documents:
- Company Registration Documents
- Shareholder Certificates/Records:
- Business Licenses:
- Tax Registration Documents:
- Audited or Non-Audited Financial Statements (Past 2 Years):
- Business Bank Statements:
- Profit/Loss Statements:
- Balance Sheets:
Canadian Entity Documents
- Certificate of Incorporation:
- Articles of Incorporation:
- Shareholder Certificate/Records:
- Notice of Change Forms (if applicable):
- Amendments to Incorporations:
- List of Directors/Amendments:
- CRA Business Number:
- LMIA Exemption Explanation:
ICT Applicant Documents:
- Passport:
- Marriage Certificate (if applicable)
- Resume:
- Education Certificates (ECA not needed):
- Digital Photo:
- Personal Bank Statements (for at least six months):
- Pay Stubs or Proof of Working for Overseas Company:
- Net Worth Certificate:
- Proof of Ties to Home Country:
- Offer of Employment from a Canadian Company:
- Employment Contract from Canadian Company:
- Letter from Current Employer (from Overseas Business):
- Complete ALL Immigration Forms:
- Police Clearance Certificate (in some cases):
- Upfront Medicals (in some cases):
It’s crucial to stay updated with the latest immigration guidelines and requirements, as they may change over time. Consulting with immigration professionals can also provide valuable assistance in preparing a comprehensive and accurate application.
Canada Intra Company Transfer Visa Program Cost
The cost associated with the Canada Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) visa program can be categorized into government fees and fees charged by immigration companies, which can vary based on service providers. While the final expenses may depend on factors such as business complexity and preferred structures in Canada, the following estimates provide a helpful reference:
- Government Fees:
- Work Permit Government Fees: $155
- Biometrics: $85
- Employer Compliance Fee: $230
- Canadian Entity Setup:
- Canadian Entity Incorporation: $1,500 – $2,500
- Application Preparation and Advisory Services:
- Business Plan: $3,000 – $3,500
- Immigration Advisory, Application Structuring: $7,000 – $10,000
- Total Estimated Cost: On the higher end, the overall expense for an ICT application can reach approximately CAD 16,270. For applicants including a spouse, an additional $255 should be considered. Each dependent child seeking a study permit may add around $150.
Duration of ICT Work Permit Canada
The length of an intra-company transfer work permit in Canada is contingent upon the employee’s category:
- Executives and Senior Managers: Initially granted for up to three years, these work permits may be extended, allowing a maximum tenure of seven years.
- Functional Managers: Work permits for functional managers are initially valid for up to three years, and extensions can be pursued, allowing a maximum duration of five years.
- Employees with Specialized Knowledge: Employees possessing specialized knowledge are eligible for work permits with an initial duration of up to three years. Similar to the other categories, extensions can be sought, allowing a maximum stay of up to five years.
This framework ensures flexibility in accommodating the varying needs and roles of intra-company transferees while adhering to specified time limits for each category.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Canada’s Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) program provides a streamlined pathway for multinational corporations to transfer key personnel. With varying durations based on roles, executives, managers, and specialized employees can benefit from a flexible and efficient immigration process.
Navigating this system successfully requires meticulous documentation, adherence to eligibility criteria, and consideration of compliance obligations. As businesses seek to enhance their global workforce, the ICT program is a valuable tool.
For personalized guidance and support in your ICT application, consult with immigration experts. Secure your global talent mobility—explore the possibilities with confidence. Contact us today!
