Intra-company transfer (ICT) — Canada
Statutory definition
ICT work permits are issued under IRPR s 205(a) (significant benefit to Canada) without LMIA requirement. The worker must have been continuously employed by the foreign entity in an executive, senior managerial, or specialised knowledge role for at least 1 year in the 3 years preceding the transfer. The Canadian company must be related to the foreign entity (parent, subsidiary, or affiliate). Initial ICT permits are granted for up to 3 years (executive/managerial) or 1 year (specialised knowledge); renewals are available.
Explanation
The ICT pathway is commonly used by multinational corporations to move senior staff to Canadian operations. The "specialised knowledge" category is broadly defined but requires proprietary company knowledge not easily transferable to a Canadian worker. ICT permits are employer-specific and tied to the transferring entity. Senior managers and executives can hold ICT permits for up to 7 years; specialised knowledge workers for up to 5 years. After the maximum period, the worker must leave Canada for a "cooling off" period before obtaining a new ICT permit.