Quick answer
The Intra-Company Transfer work permit allows certain multinational companies to transfer key employees to Canada without an LMIA. It is commonly used for executives, senior managers, and specialized knowledge workers moving to a Canadian parent, branch, subsidiary, or affiliate.
Who may qualify?
ICT may fit if:
- the foreign and Canadian companies have a qualifying relationship
- the Canadian business is already operating or is being established
- the worker has qualifying recent employment with the foreign company
- the Canadian role is executive, senior managerial, or specialized knowledge
- the worker has the experience and authority needed for the Canadian role
Evidence officers expect
The application should clearly show corporate relationship, ownership, active business operations, payroll or employment history, job duties, organizational charts, financial records, Canadian business plans, and why the transfer is needed.
New office transfers
If the Canadian entity is new, the file must show a credible launch plan, physical or operational presence, funds, and enough business activity to support the transferred role. New office cases are scrutinized closely because the officer must see that the Canadian operation is genuine.
ICT vs C11 vs business visitor
Use ICT when a company is transferring a key employee within a related corporate group. Use C11 Entrepreneur when the person will own or operate a Canadian business. Use Business Visitor only for short business activities that do not enter the Canadian labour market.
Official reference
IRCC work permit guidance explains that work permits may be based on an LMIA or an offer from an LMIA-exempt employer. See Guide 5487.
