Intra Company Transfer

Overview of Intra Company Transfer Program

The Intra-Company Transfer program is designed for employees of multinational companies who are looking to work in Canada at a branch, affiliate, or subsidiary of the company. This program enables workers to transfer without the need for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), making it one of the fastest and most efficient ways to work in Canada temporarily. The program provides a pathway for employees to take on senior or specialized roles while contributing their expertise to Canadian operations.

Eligibility for Intra-Company Transfer

To be eligible for the Intra-Company Transfer program, the employee must meet certain criteria. This includes:

• Employment with the Parent Company: The individual must have been employed by the company for at least one year in the last three years, in a position that involves managerial, executive, or specialized knowledge.
• Position in Canada: The employee must be transferred to a similar position in a Canadian branch or affiliate of the company. This position must require the same skills and qualifications the employee held at their home location.
• Company Relationship: The employee’s employer must have an established relationship with a branch, subsidiary, or affiliate in Canada. This means that the international company must be actively conducting business in Canada, whether through an office, branch, or other commercial presence.

Benefits of Intra-Company Transfer

The Intra-Company Transfer program provides numerous advantages for businesses and employees. Here are some key benefits:

• Faster Processing: Since no LMIA is required, the processing time for these visas is typically faster, allowing businesses to transfer employees quickly.
• Extended Stay: Intra-Company Transfer work permits can initially be granted for up to one year, with possible extensions depending on the employee’s position and business needs.
• Access to Family Members: Employees can bring their spouse and dependent children along, with the opportunity for the spouse to apply for an open work permit, making it a family-friendly program.
• Specialized Skills and Knowledge Transfer: This program ensures that Canadian businesses benefit from global expertise while offering the opportunity to transfer specialized skills and knowledge.

Steps to Apply for Intra-Company Transfer

To apply for an Intra-Company Transfer work permit, follow these steps:

1. Confirm Eligibility: Ensure that the employee meets the requirements of having worked for the company for at least one year and is being transferred to a role in Canada that matches their previous position.
2. Gather Necessary Documentation: This includes proof of employment, company relationship (e.g., affiliation agreements), and details of the Canadian job offer.
3. Submit the Application: The application for a work permit can be submitted to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), along with supporting documents. It is crucial to provide evidence that the employee will be working in a specialized or managerial role.
4. Wait for Processing: Processing times vary but are often faster than other work permit categories. Once approved, the employee can begin working in Canada.

Duration of Stay Under the Intra-Company Transfer

The Intra-Company Transfer program allows employees to stay in Canada for a specific duration, typically up to one year initially. However, the length of the stay can be extended if the employee continues to meet the eligibility requirements. In some cases, workers in specialized or senior roles can remain in Canada for up to five years, depending on the job position and company structure.

Final Thoughts

The Intra-Company Transfer program is an excellent option for multinational companies looking to bring specialized talent to Canada. It offers businesses the flexibility to transfer employees quickly and allows those employees to continue their work in Canada without the need for an LMIA. With family accompaniment options and the opportunity for long-term stays, this program is an attractive choice for many workers and their families.

For more information and assistance with your Intra-Company Transfer application, feel free to contact us. Let us help you make your transition to Canada as smooth and seamless as possible!