Intra‑Company Transfer (ICT) Work Permit
LMIA‑Exempt for Multinational Companies
No LMIA required – Streamlined process for executives, managers, and specialized knowledge workers transferring to a Canadian parent, subsidiary, or affiliate.
Eligibility Requirements
- Employed by a multinational company for at least 12 months full‑time in the last 3 years
- Transferring to a Canadian branch, subsidiary, or affiliate with a legitimate parent‑subsidiary relationship
- Role must fall into one of three categories: executive, senior manager, or specialized knowledge worker
- Canadian entity must be actively carrying on business (not just a shell)
Three ICT Categories
| Category | Key Criteria |
|---|---|
| Executive | Directs management, sets objectives, wide authority |
| Senior Manager | Manages a department, supervises staff, makes operational decisions |
| Specialized Knowledge Worker | Advanced proprietary knowledge of company’s products/services or expertise in specialised processes |
Duration & Extension
- Initial permit: Up to 3 years (or 1 year for specialized knowledge)
- Extension: Specialized knowledge workers can extend up to 5 years total; executives/managers can extend indefinitely
- Settlement path: Yes – ICT workers may be eligible for permanent residence through Express Entry (CEC) or PNP
How to Apply (Employer‑Driven)
1. Employer submits job offer through the Employer Portal
2. Pay employer compliance fee ($1,000)
3. Employee applies for work permit (online) with offer letter and proof of relationship
4. Processing: usually 2‑4 weeks (outside Canada) or 10‑12 weeks (inside)
Transferring Your Career to Canada?
We help multinational companies and their employees navigate the ICT work permit process, including establishing the qualifying relationship.
Request Corporate ICT Support Employee Eligibility CheckOn This Page
Establishing the Corporate Relationship?
We can help document the parent‑subsidiary or affiliate relationship required for ICT.
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