Services
Intra-Company Transferee (ICT)
Transfer executives, managers and specialized staff to a Canadian branch without an LMIA.
Reviewed by a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (licensed by the CICC)Last updated:
An intra-company transfer lets a multinational company move key staff from a foreign office to a related company in Canada (parent, subsidiary, branch or affiliate) without an LMIA. The employee must be an executive, a senior or functional manager, or have specialized knowledge.
The employee usually needs at least one year of continuous full-time work with the company in the past three years in a similar role. Since IRCC’s October 2024 update, specialized knowledge means both advanced proprietary knowledge and an advanced level of expertise. Companies opening their first Canadian office can also use ICT, with an initial permit of up to one year.
Who it’s for
- Executives and managers moving to a Canadian branch
- Specialized knowledge employees with advanced company expertise
- Business owners opening a new office in Canada
- HR teams planning employee transfers
How we help
- Checking the corporate relationship and the employee’s role
- Evidence of specialized knowledge, job duties and pay
- Plans for new Canadian offices (start-up ICT)
- Work permits for family members, extensions and PR planning
Frequently asked questions
Can a small business use ICT?
Yes, if it has a real, operating business abroad and a qualifying relationship with the Canadian company. Size matters less than proof that the business is genuine.
Can ICT lead to permanent residence?
Yes. Many transferees later apply through Express Entry, often with Canadian work experience. We plan this from the start.
We never guarantee approvals. Only Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) makes decisions on applications.
Not sure which service applies to you?
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