The Intra-Company Transfer Program: Your Fast-Track Solution to Business Growth in Canada

What is the Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) Program? 

The Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) Program allows multinational businesses to transfer employees from an overseas office to a Canadian branch, subsidiary, or affiliate. It is part of Canada’s International Mobility Program (IMP) and provides a work permit option that does not require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). 

Eligibility for the ICT Program 

To qualify for an ICT work permit, both the business and the employee must meet specific requirements: 

• The foreign company must have a qualifying relationship with the Canadian entity, such as a parent company, branch, subsidiary, or affiliate. 

• The employee must have worked for the foreign company for at least one year in the past three years. 

• The employee must be transferred to Canada in one of the following roles: 

• Executive or Senior Manager, responsible for overseeing a significant portion of the business. 

• Functional Manager, overseeing a key business function or department. 

• Specialized Knowledge Worker, possessing advanced expertise in the company’s products, services, or processes. 

Benefits of the Intra-Company Transfer to Canada 

The ICT program provides several advantages over other work permit categories: 

• No LMIA Requirement – Unlike other Canadian work permits, ICT applications do not require an LMIA, making the process faster and more straightforward.
  • Faster Processing Times – Applications are typically processed within two to eight weeks. 
  • Pathway to Permanent Residency (PR) – After working in Canada for a year, ICT holders can apply for permanent residency through Express Entry under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). 
  • Family Sponsorship – Spouses of ICT work permit holders are eligible for an open work permit, and dependent children can attend Canadian schools. 
  • Business Expansion Opportunities – ICT allows companies to establish a presence in Canada, enter new markets, and expand their operations internationally. 

   

  Required Documents for an ICT Application 

  Both the business and the employee must provide the necessary documentation for a successful ICT work permit application. 

  Company Documents 

  • Proof of the relationship between the foreign and Canadian company (e.g., incorporation documents, ownership structure). 
  • Business registration and financial statements to demonstrate business viability. 
  • A detailed business plan outlining the company’s expansion strategy in Canada. 
  • Lease agreement or proof of office space in Canada. 

  Employee Documents 

  • Valid passport with at least six months of validity. 
  • Employment letter from the foreign company confirming job title, duration, and salary. 
  • Detailed job description matching ICT eligibility criteria. 
  • Educational qualifications and certifications, if applicable. 
  • Proof of salary, such as pay stubs or tax documents. 

   

  Processing Time and Government Fees 

  Processing times for an ICT work permit vary depending on the applicant’s home country and whether they qualify for priority processing. Most applications are processed within two to eight weeks. 

  Government Fees for ICT Work Permit 

  • Work Permit Fee: CAD 155 
  • Employer Compliance Fee: CAD 230 
  • Biometrics Fee: CAD 85 

  Additional costs may apply for business registration, legal fees, and commercial lease agreements. 

Steps to Apply for an Intra-Company Transfer Work Permit 

1. Assess Eligibility – Ensure that both the business and the employee meet the ICT requirements. 

1. Set Up a Canadian Entity – If your company does not yet have a branch or subsidiary in Canada, business incorporation will be required. 

1. Prepare Documentation – Gather all company and employee documents, including the business plan and proof of financial stability. 

1. Submit the Application – Applications can be submitted online through IRCC or at a Visa Application Centre in the applicant’s home country. 

1. Wait for Approval – If approved, the employee receives a work permit, which is valid for up to three years and renewable for up to seven years, depending on the role. 

 

Why Expand Your Business to Canada? 

Expanding into Canada is a strategic decision that provides long-term business advantages. 

Comparison of Business Opportunities: Canada vs. Other Countries 

Feature	Canada	United States	United Kingdom
Corporate Tax Rate	15% (One of the Lowest in G7)	21%	19%
Ease of Doing Business	Business-Friendly Policies	Strict Regulations	Complex Process
Pathway to PR	Available After One Year	Limited	Difficult
Economic Stability	Strong and Growing	Competitive but Unstable	Uncertainty Due to Brexit

Canada provides an attractive environment for business owners due to its low corporate tax rates, strong economy, and clear immigration pathways. 

 

How Arrowhead Consulting Can Assist You 

At Arrowhead Consulting, we provide comprehensive services to make the ICT process seamless. 

• ICT Eligibility Assessment – We evaluate business and employee eligibility for the program. 

• Business Incorporation in Canada – Assistance in setting up a subsidiary or branch. 

• Work Permit Application Support – Ensuring all required documents are accurate and complete. 

• Business Purchase Assistance – If you prefer to invest in an existing business instead of starting from scratch, we help with business acquisitions in sectors such as hospitality, retail, and food services. 

For expert guidance, contact Arrowhead Consulting: 

Arrowhead Consulting 
Phone: +1 780-300-2323 
Email: Info@arrowheadconsulting.ca 
Website: www.arrowheadconsulting.ca 

 

Conclusion 

The Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) Program is an excellent solution for businesses and professionals looking to expand into Canada. With fast processing times, an LMIA exemption, and a clear pathway to permanent residency, this program provides a seamless transition for business owners and employees. 

For assistance with business expansion, work permit applications, or purchasing an existing business in Canada, contact Arrowhead Consulting for professional guidance and support.