ICT Work Permit – All You Need To Know

The ICT work permit is a popular way for international workers to move themselves or key employers to Canada. Then, if you are working for a company with a branch, subsidiary, or affiliate in Canada, you can get a work permit through the ICT program. However, that’s not the only way. Also, if you are the company owner, you can apply through this program to come and open Canadian operations. Successful candidates receive ICT temporary work permits. This document is usually given for one year, but you can extend it to seven 7 years.  

Transition to Permanent Resident

One of the best things about moving to Canada is that if a person follows specific steps and meets the criteria, they may be able to apply for their permanent status. So then, if you work through the ICT program in Canada for at least one year, you may qualify for PR. As you may know, work experience is one of the most valuable factors under the CRS point system. Consequently, work experience gained as an intra-company transferee in Canada will add at least 50 extra points to your profile for the immigration system. Furthermore, spouses, common-law partners and children can accompany the main applicant and be able to attend public school for free or to receive an open work permit. Besides these many benefits, another vital factor that makes the ICT work permit more appealing is the LMIA exemption. After all, it is a quicker, simpler and cost-effective pathway to work in Canada and qualify for PR.

FAQs About ICT Work Permit

• What countries are allowed to apply under the ICT work permit?

There is no restriction. Intra-company transferees may be from any country.

• How long does it take the ICT visa?

Usually 1 to 2 months from the moment of applying.

• Can my spouse and children come with me under the ICT work permit?

Yes. Principal applicants may bring their families to Canada under this program.

• Can I use my ICT work experience to apply for permanent residence?

Yes, after at least one year, an ICT worker can enter Canada’s Express Entry immigration selection system through the federal government’s Canadian Experience Class (CEC) program.

• Does intra-company transferee need LMIA?

No, they are exempted from the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)

• Can I switch jobs on an ICT visa in Canada?

No, you cannot switch jobs under an ICT work permit. It only allows you to work fr the employer listed on your existing ICT visa.

• How can I transfer workers under the ICT program?

To do it, a worker must have at least one year of full-time work experience with a foreign enterprise and come to Canada to perform comparable work.

• Can the spouse of an intra-company transferee work in Canada?

Yes, spouses can apply for an open work permit and work for any employer.

• How long is the initial work permit valid for?

ICT work permits are usually granted for 1 year. However, in some instances, IRCC may give it for 2 years. But, most of the time, it is for 1 year with renewable options. 

• The ICT work permit be renewed before its expiry?

Yes, if the international worker continues to work for the same employer. The maximum length of a work permit for executives and senior managers is seven years, and for specialized knowledge, workers is five years.

• Can the company in Canada engage in a type of business different from my home company?

There is no law for both companies to operate in the same business area. However, it is better if both companies are in a similar business or industry.

• What if the company can’t meet the goals expected in the business plan?

Firstly, a business plan is not an agreement. Business owners will not be responsible if they cannot meet targets set out in the original business plan.

• Is it possible to work for 2 different companies with an ICT work permit?

No. Your work permit will only allow you to work for that company in Canada.  

• What happens if the Canadian company can’t make a profit during the first year of operation?

It won’t be a problem if you prove the company is actively doing business. It should keep offering its services in Canada or abroad. 

• Is there a minimum time expected for an ICT worker to stay in Canada?

There is no minimum time expected for CEO and managers, and they can keep their main residence in their home countries if they can run the business while often travelling in and out of Canada. However, key personnel workers must relocate to Canada during their employment.

• After completing one year under the ICT work permit, do I have to apply for PR?

There is no obligation to apply for permanent residency after 1 year of working experience in Canada. You can choose to renew your ICT work permit and continue in Canada as a temporary foreign worker.

• Can I apply for an Intra-Company Transfer work permit while COVID-19 travel restrictions exist in Canada?

Yes. Indeed, it is one of the most appealing programs for the Canadian government. 

• What is the NAFT intra-company transfer?

It is a different program. The NAFTA agreement is only for US, Mexican and Canadian companies with a qualifying relationship. 

• Business requirements to apply for an ICT work permit?

There are several requirements for a business to qualify under the ICT program. Read here to know more about this.

• Is ICT a closed work permit?

Yes, it is a company-specific or closed work permit. 

• Is there a requirement to pay Intra Company Transferees Canadian wages? Can I receive my salary from the home company?

Managerial and senior executives may remain on the payroll of the home company and receive their wages from their home country. But, if they wish to receive their salary in Canada, their salary must meet their position’s Canadian median wage standards.