Intra-company transferee
Statutory definition
IRPR r 205(a) provides that a work permit may be issued without an LMIA to a foreign national who is to engage in employment that will create or maintain significant social, cultural or economic benefits or opportunities for Canadians. The intra-company transferee category is a recognised application of this provision under IRCC policy guidelines.
Explanation
Intra-company transferees must:
- Work for a multinational company that has a qualifying relationship (parent, subsidiary, branch, or affiliate) with the Canadian receiving company
- Have been employed by the foreign entity for at least one year in the preceding three years (in most cases)
- Be transferred to Canada in a senior executive, managerial, or specialised knowledge role
Work permits for intra-company transferees are LMIA-exempt. Initial permits are generally issued for one to three years, with extensions available. Senior executives and managers may obtain work permits for up to seven years; specialised knowledge workers are limited to five years.
How this term is used
Intra-company transferees are a significant category of temporary worker in Canada, used heavily by technology, financial services, and professional services firms. The work permit is employer-specific — the holder can only work for the Canadian entity named in the permit.