How to Expand Your Business to Canada Through Intra-Company Transfer 

At Arrowhead Consulting, our team is dedicated to simplifying the ICT journey. From company setup to work permit approvals, we support businesses and professionals through each step of the relocation process. 

Understanding the Intra-Company Transfer Program 

The ICT program, governed by Canada’s International Mobility Program (IMP), allows foreign businesses to transfer essential employees to a Canadian branch or establish a new entity in Canada. One of the key benefits is that this process does not require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), which typically involves proving the unavailability of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident for the role. 

Eligible Roles for Transfer: 

• Senior executives or key decision-makers 

• Operational or departmental managers 

• Professionals with specialized knowledge crucial to company operations 

Who Can Use This Program? 

The ICT pathway is ideal for companies that already have: 

• An established business outside Canada 

• A desire to expand or set up a new presence in Canada 

• Employees who have worked in the foreign office for at least one year in the past three years 

Businesses must demonstrate a genuine relationship between the foreign and Canadian entities (parent, branch, subsidiary, or affiliate). 

 

Document Checklist for ICT Applications 

At Arrowhead Consulting, we ensure every document is prepared in line with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) requirements. 

For the Parent (Foreign) Company: 

• Proof of active operations (business license, tax filings) 

• Company profile or description of activities 

• Financial documents (income statements, balance sheets) 

• Organizational chart showing company structure 

For the Canadian Entity: 

• Articles of Incorporation or business registration documents 

• Lease agreement or property ownership documents for the Canadian office 

• Evidence of relationship to the foreign company 

• Business plan (especially for new offices) 

For the Transferred Employee: 

• Updated resume or CV 

• Offer letter outlining duties, title, and compensation 

• Previous employment documents proving one year of full-time work 

• Proof of expertise (degrees, certifications, work samples)  

Application Fees and Government Charges 

Here is an overview of the fees charged by the Canadian government during the ICT process: 

Application Type	Cost (CAD)
Work Permit Fee	$155
Employer Compliance Fee (if required)	$230
Biometrics Processing Fee	$85
Restoration of Status (if applicable)	$200

These are standard government fees. At Arrowhead Consulting, we also provide transparent pricing for our professional services, ensuring there are no surprises along the way. 

 

Key Advantages of the Intra-Company Transfer Route 

Business Expansion: 

• Seamless entry into the Canadian market 

• Access to North American business networks 

• Supportive business environment and funding opportunities 

Family and Lifestyle Benefits: 

• Spouses of ICT holders can apply for an Open Work Permit 

• Dependent children can study in Canadian public schools 

• Eligibility to apply for Permanent Residency through Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) 

Immigration Efficiency: 

• Exemption from the LMIA process 

• Relatively faster processing times compared to other work permit categories 

• Recognition of international expertise and credentials 

 

ICT vs LMIA-Based Work Permit: A Comparison 

Criteria	Intra-Company Transfer	LMIA Work Permit
Labour Market Impact Assessment	Not required	Mandatory
Processing Duration	Generally shorter	Typically longer
PR Pathway Eligibility	Yes	Yes
Intended Roles	Senior, Managerial, or Specialized	Any occupation
Application Complexity	Moderate	High due to LMIA

 

Why Relocate Your Business to Canada? 

Beyond immigration benefits, Canada offers a wide range of economic and business advantages for international entrepreneurs: 

• Politically stable and economically advanced 

• Pro-business taxation system with various grants and incentives 

• Diverse, educated, and multilingual workforce 

• High standard of living and safety for families 

• Global access via trade agreements like USMCA, CPTPP, and CETA 

 

Arrowhead Consulting: Your Strategic ICT Partner 

At Arrowhead Consulting, we pride ourselves on providing personalized, end-to-end support for Intra-Company Transfer clients. We go beyond immigration paperwork—our goal is to help you launch and grow your Canadian business with confidence. 

Our Services Include: 

• Incorporation of your Canadian entity 

• Business address setup and virtual office solutions 

• Creation of tailored business plans 

• Work permit application and document preparation 

• Assistance with post-arrival services (banking, accommodation, health card, SIN, etc.) 

Whether you’re opening a satellite office or relocating top talent to manage Canadian operations, we ensure the transition is smooth and compliant. 

 

Final Thoughts 

The Intra-Company Transfer pathway presents a powerful opportunity for business growth and global mobility. It allows international entrepreneurs and professionals to seamlessly enter the Canadian market, bringing along their expertise and innovation. 

If you’re considering expanding your business into Canada, trust Arrowhead Consulting to lead the way. We bring experience, integrity, and a hands-on approach to ensure your success in this new venture. 

Get in touch today to begin your Canadian journey. 
Phone: +1 7803002323 
Email: business@arrowheadconsulting.ca 
Website: www.arrowheadconsulting.ca