In today’s world, businesses all around the world are planning to expand their horizons across the border to capitalize on the diverse pool of talent within the international market. With a multicultural society and business friendly environment, Canada stands out among companies that are planning to expand their business. Canada provides foreign nationals with various opportunities to obtain a work permit. One of the most significant programs that Canada has is called an Intra-Company Transfer (ICT). In this comprehensive article, we will dive into all the relevant details of ICT, while exploring the benefits, eligibility criteria and as well as the application process. 

Canada Intra Company Transfer also known as Canada ICT Visa is suitable for owners of multinational companies who will be transferred to work in an affiliated company while it is either well established or a start up in Canada. Canada’s Intra Company Transfer is rather a significant opportunity as compared to the regular work visa.

Canada ICT Program 

Canada Intra Company Transfer program, is a specialized segment within Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), aims to streamline the relocation of essential personnel from multinational corporations to their Canadian branches, subsidiaries, or affiliated entities. This initiative empowers companies to utilize their international talent pool, facilitating the temporary deployment of skilled professionals to Canada. By fostering knowledge exchange, innovation, and business expansion, the ICT program plays a pivotal role in enhancing organizational capabilities and driving economic growth.

Advantages of ICT Program

Canada’s Intra Company Transfer Program (ICT) holds a unique significance, however among many benefits, several advantages are listed below:

1. The Intra Company Transfer Program Canada has a streamlined application process that allows the companies to fast track the transfer of the employees. 
2. It allows the companies to dive into their already existing talent pool of their overseas location and transfer them to the office in Canada. This not only ensures the continuity of work but also ensures work expertise. 
3. ICT Program is an effective way that provides companies with convenient options to expand businesses while fostering innovation & as well as economic growth. 
4. Transferring employees across borders facilitates in not only transferring knowledge but also promotes cross culture collaboration but also skill development within the organization. 
5. Offering employees with an opportunity to work across borders promotes job retention and employee satisfaction as well. 

Requirements of Canada Intra Company Transfer 

Entrepreneurs who have well settled business in their home towns have the perfect opportunity to set up business in Canada under ICT. However, there are several requirements that must be met before setting a business in Canada:

1. To expand in Canada, the company should be operation for more than 12 months (ideally for more than 3 years)
2. The home company should be financially stable to support the business in Canada.
3. The applicant seeking Intra Company Transfer Canada should be part of the owner company for at least 12 months before applying for the immigration process. 
4. The operations in Canada will be viable to create more job opportunities for Canadians. 

Eligibility Criteria for Canada Intra Company Transfer 

To be eligible for the ICT program, specific criteria must be met by both the employer and the employee. The employer is required to:

1. Establish a qualifying relationship with both the foreign entity (parent company, subsidiary, affiliate) and the Canadian entity.
2. Demonstrate a genuine necessity for the employee’s specialized knowledge, skills, or expertise.
3. Ensure the provision of a suitable work environment and compliance with all regulatory obligations in Canada.

Likewise, the employee must:

1. Have maintained employment with the foreign entity for a specified duration, typically one year or longer.
2. Possess specialized knowledge, executive, or managerial experience pertinent to the position in Canada.
3. Express an intention to engage in temporary employment in Canada and return to the foreign entity upon the conclusion of the assignment.

Application Process & Approval 

Once the application is done, It is sent for review and approval to the immigration that assesses the merits of transfer based on the employer’s credibility and the employee’s abilities. If it is approved, the employee will receive a letter of permission and will be allowed to work in Canada. 

Conclusion 

Canada’s Intra Company Transfer is an effective strategy that allows multinational companies to facilitate a transfer of skilled employees in their operations in Canada. With the assistance of ICT, businesses all around the globe have the ability to source skilled employees from all around the world & focus on the growth of the business, while abiding by the immigration rules in Canada. 

FAQS

What is the initial validity of ICT Work Permit?

The initial work permit is valid for 12 months (a year). However, the permit can be reviewed several times (2 to 3 times). 

Can an employee work in another company while working on a ICT Work permit in Canada?

No, under the work permit rules and regulation you will only be able to work with your employer. 

What is the minimum time required for ICT Work Permit application?

It takes about 1-2 months. However, Based on where your visa office is, it can take up to 3 to 4 months.