Canadian Subsidiaries

For foreign companies looking to transfer key employees and establish a presence in Canada.

Bringing foreign talent to Canada is a crucial step for multinational businesses looking to expand their operations. The Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) program, under the International Mobility Program (IMP), provides a streamlined way for businesses to transfer high-level personnel to a new or existing Canadian subsidiary, affiliate, or branch, fostering growth and expertise.

 

Canadian Subsidiaries

For foreign companies looking to transfer key employees and establish a presence in Canada.

Bringing foreign talent to Canada is a crucial step for multinational businesses looking to expand their operations. The Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) program, under the International Mobility Program (IMP), provides a streamlined way for businesses to transfer high-level personnel to a new or existing Canadian subsidiary, affiliate, or branch, fostering growth and expertise.

 

What is the Intra-Company Transfer Program?

The Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) program allows foreign companies to transfer certain key employees to a new or existing Canadian entity without needing a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). This temporary work permit facilitates the movement of vital personnel, such as executives, senior managers, or employees with specialized knowledge, enabling a foreign business to establish or expand its operations and contribute to the Canadian economy.

 
LMIA Exemption

The ICT program is exempt from the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) process. This means a Canadian business doesn't need to prove that a Canadian worker isn't available for the role, significantly simplifying and speeding up the work permit application.

Strategic Talent Transfer

Designed for the transfer of key personnel, such as executives, senior managers, or employees with specialized knowledge. It allows multinational corporations to leverage their internal talent to establish and grow their Canadian operations effectively.

Pathway to Permanent Residency

While an ICT work permit is temporary, it can provide a strong foundation for a future permanent residency application. The work experience gained in Canada may be leveraged for programs like Express Entry and Provincial Nomination.

General Requirements

  • The foreign company and the Canadian entity must have a qualifying relationship as a parent, subsidiary, or affiliate. This legal connection must be clearly documented to show the transfer is taking place within the same corporate structure.


  • The employee being transferred must have been employed full-time by the foreign company for at least one year within the three-year period immediately before applying. This demonstrates their value and commitment to the company.


  • The transferee must be an executive, a senior manager, or have specialized knowledge that is crucial to the Canadian business's operations. This ensures the program is used for high-value talent transfers rather than general labor needs.

Defining Specialized Knowledge

The definition of specialized knowledge is strict; it must be proprietary and uncommon within the Canadian labor market. The knowledge must be essential to the Canadian operations and more than just general industry know-how.

Maximum Duration Limits

The ICT work permit is temporary, with a maximum cumulative duration of five or seven years depending on the role. Applicants and employers must have a clear plan for what comes next after this period.

Proving a Viable Business

For a new Canadian office, the application must include a solid business plan and evidence of active operations within the first year. This ensures the Canadian entity is a genuine, viable enterprise and not a shell company.

Start your immigration journey with confidence

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Start your immigration journey with confidence

Whether you're ready to start on your own—or want advice every step of the way—we've got your back.
Start with a $49.99 one-on-one consulation.

Express
Consultation

Speak with an immigration expert to get answers to questions and concerns

$49.99 (CAD)

30 minutes with an expert

Answers to basic question

Overview of immigration pathways

Key information on requirements

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Premium Consultation & Eligibility Assessment

In-depth analysis, eligibility assessment & tailored strategy

$149.99 (CAD)

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Eligibility review, CRS score, and best pathways

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Self-Managed Application Support Consultation

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$199.99 (CAD)

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Answers to questions on forms, and requirements

Guidance on next steps after submission

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Get the help you need to succeed.

Personal assessment

We evaluate your specific situation and the eligibility of your company and employee for the ICT program, ensuring a strong start.

Strategic advice

  • Our team helps you develop a clear business plan and gather the necessary corporate and personal documents for a robust application.

    • Application preparation

    We prepare and submit all required forms and a comprehensive employer compliance package, handling the complexities on your behalf.

    Ongoing support

    We provide support throughout the process, including responding to any requests from immigration officials and preparing for potential interviews.

    Navigating the Process

    The Intra-Company Transfer program can be a highly effective way for multinational corporations to enter the Canadian market. However, the success of the application heavily relies on providing clear, detailed evidence that satisfies the strict criteria set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).


    Unlike other work permit streams, this program is designed to facilitate the transfer of unique human capital, not to fill general labor shortages. Therefore, every aspect of the application, from the business plan to the employee's role, must clearly demonstrate the benefit of the transfer to Canada. This is particularly critical for new office start-ups, where the viability of the business is under close scrutiny.

    Common Mistakes to Avoid

    Applicants often fail by not adequately demonstrating a qualifying relationship between the companies or by not clearly defining the employee's role as an executive, senior manager, or specialized knowledge worker. Another frequent pitfall is a weak business plan that lacks detail on how the Canadian entity will become profitable and contribute to the local economy. For example, simply having a Canadian address and a plan to hire one person is often insufficient. A robust application will include projections, a hiring strategy, and evidence of a genuine need for the transferred employee's skills to make the business a success.

    Discover More Business Opportunities

    Canada offers several business immigration pathways for foreign nationals. Understanding how the ICT program fits within the broader landscape can help you make a long-term strategic plan.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Yes. Most immigration programs designed to attract skilled workers let you include your family in your application for permanent residency in Canada. This includes your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children. Additionally, Canada has separate programs where citizens and permanent residents can sponsor certain close relatives for immigration.

    While there's no age limit to apply for economic immigration programs, your age will affect your score.  These programs award points based on various factors like education, language skills, work experience, and even having a job lined up in Canada. People between 25 and 35 get the highest score for age, but don't worry!  If you're outside this range, you can make up for it with strong points in other categories.

    If you're an international student wanting to study in Canada, you'll need a study permit. To get one, you must first be accepted by a school approved by the Canadian government (called a designated learning institution). You'll also need to show you have enough money to cover your schooling, living costs, and even the ticket back home.

    Our commitment is to your success, and we never recommend services unless you genuinely qualify. We believe in open communication and will always explore the most realistic options for your situation. Furthermore, our unwavering support extends beyond the application process. We're with you every step of the way, even in challenging circumstances, ensuring a smooth and successful immigration journey to Canada.

    Our team is committed to your success, and we'll explore all realistic pathways to achieve your Canadian immigration goals. We believe in clear communication and will keep you informed throughout the process.

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