Canada - ICT Visa Business Migration

Canada - ICT Visa Business Migration

Canada’s Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) program is a fast, LMIA‑exempt pathway for multinationals and high‑growth companies to move key talent to a Canadian branch, subsidiary, or affiliate. Executives, senior managers, and specialized‑knowledge professionals can receive employer‑specific work permits under the International Mobility Program (code C12), enabling rapid market entry and team build‑out.

Eligibility hinges on a qualifying corporate relationship and at least one year of full‑time employment with the foreign entity in the last three years in a similar role. Companies must show active operations and ability to pay Canadian‑level wages; specialized knowledge must be proprietary and advanced. For new offices, provide incorporation, a practical business plan, proof of funds, staffing roadmap, and premises arrangements.

Initial terms: up to three years for established entities (one year for new offices), with extensions available to a maximum of seven years for executives/managers and five years for specialized knowledge. Many TEER 0–1 roles may benefit from Global Skills Strategy two‑week processing. Spouses qualify for open work permits; dependent children can study.

ICT often leads to permanent residence via Express Entry (e.g., CEC after 12 months Canadian experience) or provincial nominations. For founders expanding to Canada, ICT new‑office transfers are proven alternative to LMIA routes.