Intra-Company Transfer Program (ICT)
Understanding the Intra-Company Transfer Program (ICT):
As part of the International Mobility Program (IMP), the Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) option allows multinational companies with a presence in Canada to transfer workers under specific conditions. The primary objective is to enhance the management effectiveness and competitiveness of Canadian firms in the global market.
Qualifying Relationship and Employee Criteria:
To qualify, both Canadian and foreign companies must have a qualifying relationship, meaning the Canadian entity is a sister company, branch, affiliate, or subsidiary of the foreign company. Additionally, employees must meet various criteria related to professional experience, occupation, knowledge, and skills.
Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) Work Permit Application:
The ICT work permit application offers a valuable pathway for foreign workers to enter the Canadian labor market and gain Canadian work experience. Transferees can be of any nationality, but to qualify:
The Canadian company must have a qualifying relationship with the foreign company.
The foreign multinational company must currently employ the individual seeking transfer to Canada.
The individual must have worked for the same company seeking to transfer them to Canada in a similar full-time position for at least one year within the last three years.
Notably, LMIA is not required for ICT applications as these transferees significantly benefit Canadian interests.
Pathway to Permanent Residency:
While initially a temporary pathway, ICT can serve as a stepping stone towards obtaining Permanent Residency in Canada. One year of Canadian work experience makes individuals eligible for express entry programs, provided they achieve CLB 5 for NOC B positions and CLB 7 for NOC O and A. Provincial Nomination Programs are also accessible to these workers. Moreover, dependents can accompany the transferee, with spouses eligible for open work permits.
Eligibility:
Transferees can obtain LMIA-exempt work permits if their positions fall under the following categories:
Executives: Direct company management, establish goals and policies, and receive direction from higher levels.
Senior Managers: Manage the organization, department, or subdivision, supervise other managers or employees, or oversee an essential function.
Specialized Knowledge Workers: Possess advanced expertise and proprietary knowledge relevant to the company’s product, service, research, equipment, techniques, or management.
Work Permit Validity and Renewals:
Initial Validity: Work permits are issued for up to 1 year if the transferee is opening or joining a new office; otherwise, they can be issued for up to 3 years.
Renewals: Work permits can be extended for 2 years, with a maximum duration of 7 years for executives or senior managers and 5 years for individuals with specialized knowledge.
Reapplication: After reaching the maximum duration, transferees must work full-time outside Canada for one year to reapply.