The Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) program is a work permit program offered by the Canadian government that allows eligible foreign workers to transfer from a foreign company to a Canadian subsidiary, branch, or affiliate. The program aims to facilitate the transfer of skilled workers within multinational companies, thereby promoting investment and economic growth in Canada.

• Eligibility Criteria
• Types of Intra-Company Transfer
• Application Process
• Duration of Work Permit
• Family Members
• Conclusion

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the ICT program, a foreign worker must meet the following requirements:

1. Be employed by a company that has a qualifying relationship with a Canadian entity (subsidiary, branch, or affiliate).
2. Have been employed continuously by the foreign company for at least one year in the three years preceding the application.
3. Be seeking to transfer to a Canadian entity in a similar position to their current employment.
4. Have the necessary skills and experience required for the position in Canada.

Types of Intra-Company Transfer

There are three categories of Intra-Company Transfers under the ICT program:

1. Executive or Senior Managerial Transfer: This category is for executives or senior managers who are being transferred to a Canadian entity to perform executive or managerial duties.
2. Specialized Knowledge Transfer: This category is for workers who possess specialized knowledge essential to the Canadian entity’s operations, such as proprietary knowledge of the company’s products or services, research, techniques, or management.
3. Graduates Transfer: This category is for workers who have graduated from a Canadian post-secondary institution and are being transferred to a Canadian entity to gain work experience.

Application Process

The application process for the ICT program is as follows:

1. The Canadian entity must submit an Offer of Employment to the foreign worker, outlining the terms and conditions of the employment.
2. The foreign worker must apply for a work permit through the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
3. The worker must submit supporting documents, including a copy of the Offer of Employment and evidence of their qualifications and experience.
4. The IRCC will assess the application and may request additional information or documents if necessary.
5. If the application is approved, the worker will receive a work permit that is valid for the duration of their employment in Canada.

Duration of Work Permit

The duration of the work permit under the ICT program varies depending on the category:

1. Executive or Senior Managerial Transfer: The work permit is valid for up to three years and can be renewed once for an additional three years.
2. Specialized Knowledge Transfer: The work permit is valid for up to one year and can be renewed for up to five years in total.
3. Graduates Transfer: The work permit is valid for up to one year.

Family Members

Under the ICT program, eligible foreign workers can bring their immediate family members with them to Canada. Immediate family members include a spouse or common-law partner and dependent children under the age of 22. Family members are also eligible to apply for an open work permit, allowing them to work for any Canadian employer.

Conclusion

The Intra-Company Transfer program is an excellent opportunity for multinational companies to transfer skilled workers to their Canadian entities, promoting investment and economic growth in Canada. The program has specific eligibility criteria, and the application process is relatively straightforward. If you are interested in the ICT program, consult with an immigration lawyer to discuss your eligibility and application requirements.