Overview of the Canada ICT Visa Program
Canada is a top destination for business expansion, offering economic stability, a welcoming business environment, and strong international market connections. The Canada Intra-Company Transferee (ICT) Visa Program allows multinational companies to transfer key employees to their Canadian branch, subsidiary, or affiliate. This program is designed to support business growth by enabling the relocation of essential personnel who hold managerial, executive, or specialized knowledge roles.
The ICT Visa provides a streamlined process for international companies, allowing businesses to establish and strengthen their operations in Canada while offering their employees and families the opportunity to live and work in the country. EAM Immigration specializes in guiding businesses through this process, ensuring a seamless transition for companies and their employees.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Canada ICT Visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Employment History: The applicant must currently be employed by a foreign company and must have worked there for at least one year in the last three years.
- Position Requirement: The applicant must hold a managerial, executive, or specialized knowledge position within the company.
- Qualifying Business Relationship: The foreign and Canadian companies must have a parent, branch, subsidiary, or affiliate relationship.
- Job Role in Canada: The applicant must be transferred to Canada for a similar position within the company.
At EAM Immigration, we provide expert guidance to ensure businesses and employees meet these criteria for a successful visa application.
Key Benefits of the ICT Visa
The Canada ICT Visa provides several advantages for businesses and their employees:
- Fast-Track Business Expansion: Enables companies to establish and grow operations in Canada with experienced personnel.
- Simplified Work Authorization: A structured and streamlined process for transferring key employees.
- Family Benefits: Employees can bring their spouse and children to Canada, with spouses eligible for an open work permit and children allowed to attend Canadian schools.
- Pathway to Permanent Residency: After gaining work experience in Canada, ICT visa holders may qualify for permanent residency under programs like the Express Entry system.
With the support of EAM Immigration, businesses can navigate these benefits effectively, ensuring a smooth transition for employees and their families.
ICT Visa Application Process & Timeline
Our expert consultants at EAM Immigration ensure a smooth and efficient application process for companies and their employees. Below is the typical timeline for an ICT Visa application:
- Verify that the company meets the qualifying business relationship criteria.
- Assess the applicant’s work history and position within the company.
- Prepare supporting documents, including proof of employment and business ties.
- Submit the ICT Visa application to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
- Attend an interview if required.
- Upon approval, receive the ICT work permit and relocate to Canada.
- Begin employment with the U.S. company and fulfill managerial/executive responsibilities.
- Apply for extensions or permanent residency if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The Intra-Company Transferee (ICT) Visa allows multinational companies to relocate key employees to their Canadian operations. It is a temporary work permit designed for executives, managers, and specialized knowledge workers.
The initial ICT work permit is typically valid for one to three years, with the possibility of extensions as long as the company continues to operate in Canada.
Yes, spouses and children of ICT visa holders can accompany them. Spouses may be eligible for an open work permit, while children can attend Canadian schools and universities.
While the ICT Visa itself does not grant permanent residency, visa holders can apply for permanent residency through programs such as the Express Entry system or the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
Yes, companies can relocate multiple employees under the ICT Visa Program, provided each employee meets the eligibility requirements.
The ICT Visa is intended for companies that already have a qualifying business relationship in Canada. However, new businesses can apply if they establish a Canadian subsidiary, branch, or affiliate before transferring employees.
If the Canadian branch ceases operations, the ICT Visa holder may need to explore other work permits or apply for permanent residency if eligible.
Start Your Canada ICT Visa Application with EAM Immigration
The Canada ICT Visa Program offers a strategic opportunity for businesses to expand into Canada while ensuring a seamless transition for key employees. EAM Immigration has extensive experience assisting companies with the ICT Visa process, from eligibility assessments to application filing and ongoing compliance support.
Contact EAM Immigration today for a personalized consultation and take the first step toward expanding your business in Canada with confidence!
