INTRA-COMPANY TRANSFER ( ICT VISA)
INTRA COMPANY TRANSFER CANADA TO PR
Embarking on the journey from an Intra Company Transfer Canada to PR in Canada, may initially seem like an uphill battle filled with bureaucratic complexities. However, with the expert guidance of Bluewater Immigration, recognized as one of the best Canada immigration consultants, the seemingly challenging process can be made considerably more manageable.
The relevance of the ICT Work permit to PR Canada, LMIA Exempt Work Permit processing time, the steps involved in transferring work permit to a new employer, the significance of the ICT Code, and the concept of a temporary transfer, are key aspects of this process that our top-notch consultants can help you navigate.
Recognized as one of the best immigration consultants in Canada, Bluewater Immigration specializes in Intra Company Transfer (ICT) processes, especially transitioning from an intra company transfer Canada to PR in Canada. An ICT is a prevalent pathway utilized by multinational businesses to strategically relocate their international staff within their Canadian operations. As a foreign professional currently employed by a multinational organization, you may be eligible to be relocated to your company’s Canadian office. But how does this process contribute to obtaining permanent residency in Canada?
Navigating through eligibility requirements, understanding the LMIA Exempt Work Permit processing time, making sense of the ICT Code, and comprehending the concept of a temporary transfer is no simple task. However, as some of the best Canada immigration consultants, we at Bluewater Immigration are here to guide you through every step of the process.
Achieving permanent residency in Canada involves a multitude of steps, each requiring a unique set of skills and knowledge. This is where the expertise of Bluewater Immigration, consistently ranked among the top 10 immigration consultants in Canada, comes into play. We can assist in confirming your eligibility for an intra company transfer, guide you through the process of obtaining your ICT work permit, and ultimately, help you transition to permanent residency.
What is the Intra Company Transfer Canada To PR program?
Understanding the concept of Intra Company Transfer is crucial. An ICT is a prevalent pathway utilized by multinational businesses to strategically relocate their international staff within their Canadian operations. As a foreign professional currently employed by a multinational organization, you may be eligible to be relocated to your company’s Canadian office. But what exactly does this process entail, and how does it contribute to obtaining permanent residency in Canada?
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Intra Company Transfer Canada to PR for Businesses
Intra company transfer to Canada is also a common way for businesses to expand or strengthen their operations in Canada. If you are a business owner looking to expand your business to Canada, our team at Bluewater Immigration, one of the top 10 immigration consultants in Canada, can help facilitate the transfer of key personnel or yourself to your new Canadian branch, subsidiary, or affiliate.
In terms of eligibility requirements for your business, it’s essential that your business is generating at least $250,000 CAD in revenues and the owner can prove the availability of liquid funds of at least $125,000 – $150,000 CAD which can be used for the operations of the business in Canada, including paying themselves a salary. When either of these 2 criteria is falling short, you must consider other business programs, perhaps the C11 would be a better option when revenues are lower and funds of $100K or less is available. Although, in recent times, cases where the proof of funds is less than $100K CAD, those cases are being rejected for lack of financial security.
There are certain other important eligibility criteria that must be met for the Intra company transfer application:
- Existing Business Relationship: The foreign company must have a qualifying relationship with the company in Canada. This means that the foreign company and the Canadian company must be parent, branch, subsidiary, or affiliate companies.
- Transferee’s Role: The person being transferred must have been employed by the foreign company for at least one year in the preceding three years and must be being transferred to perform similar duties. The position must be in an executive, senior managerial, or specialized knowledge capacity.
- Employment Terms: The transferee must be offered employment in Canada on a temporary basis and not be intending to enter the Canadian labor market. The role should not be one that a Canadian or Permanent Resident could fill.
- Compliance: Both companies must be compliant with immigration law and regulations in both countries.
The intra company transfer program (ICT program) does not require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), and this does not necessarily mean that it is an easier process. If anything, the process will be scrutinized more as we are circumventing the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) process.
If you want to transfer yourself to the Canadian branch of your business, you’ll need to ensure you meet the criteria listed above. Particularly, you’ll need to meet the requirement of being in an executive or managerial position or hold specialized knowledge that’s necessary for the operation of the Canadian branch.
It’s also important to note that this is a temporary immigration status. However, it can be used as a stepping stone to transition from intra company transfer Canada to PR in Canada, especially for executives and managers.
The actual process of applying will involve applying to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), either online or at a Visa Application Centre. The exact documents you need will depend on your specific circumstances, but generally will include evidence of your employment and role at the foreign company, details about the Canadian company, and details about the proposed role in Canada.
Given the complexities involved in such an application, it may be beneficial to consult with an immigration lawyer or consultant to guide you through the process and ensure all requirements are met.
Intra company transfer Canada to PR
Now let’s talk about the ICT Work Permit to PR Canada and what the process entails:
The ICT Work permit to PR Canada pathway is a pivotal part of this intricate procedure. To qualify for an ICT, as a transferee, you need to have been continuously employed by your company outside Canada for a minimum of one year within the last three years. Additionally, your transfer to Canada should be intended for providing specialized knowledge or to assume a senior managerial or executive position. This permit is generally issued for one year for specialized knowledge workers and up to three years for executives and senior managers, with the possibility of extensions.
However, it is vital to underline that possessing an ICT Work permit does not automatically guarantee PR. To transition from an ICT Work permit to PR status in Canada, you must meet the eligibility criteria under one of Canada’s immigration programs. A popular choice is the Canadian Experience Class, which requires a minimum of one year of skilled work experience in Canada. In certain instances, an ICT may also qualify for a Provincial Nominee Program, each of which has its unique set of eligibility requirements. PR can also be applied under the FSW for owners of businesses.
Another essential aspect of the process is understanding the LMIA Exempt Work Permit processing time. The Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document that an employer in Canada may need to obtain before hiring a foreign worker. However, Intra Company Transferees are exempt from this requirement. This does not mean that the processing time is any faster. Intra company transfer applications were being processed in less than a month during pre-Covid days, and for a while the processing times were taking up to 6 months or even more depending on where the applicant is applying from. Thankfully, these days the processing times are starting to go down and we are beginning to receive approvals in less than 3 months. The processing time for an LMIA Exempt Work Permit typically ranges from a few weeks to several months, depending on a range of factors such as the accuracy and completeness of the application and the volume of applications being processed at the time.
Can you or Can you not change jobs?
The possibility of switching jobs during this period also exists. However, it’s crucial to approach this aspect with a well-planned strategy. If you have an employer-specific work permit, like the one issued under an ICT, you are authorized to work only for the employer listed on your permit. To change jobs, you would need to go through a new LMIA process (unless the new job is also LMIA-exempt), and a job offer from the new employer before you can apply for a new work permit. Your expert guide can also be invaluable if you decide to switch jobs during this time. They can help you navigate the process of transferring your work permit to a new employer and guide you through any new LMIA processes that may be required.
What is the Intra Company Transfer Code or the ICT Code?
The term intra company transfer code or the ICT Code is one that you will frequently come across during this process. This refers to the specific code under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) that verifies the job’s eligibility for an ICT. Comprehending the ICT Code associated with your position is of critical importance for confirming your eligibility for the ICT process and ensuring your role is accurately represented in your application. The LMIA Exemption ICT Code has also changed from C12. Now the ICT Codes are either C61 (for employees starting a branch or affiliate), C62 (For executives and Senior Managers) or C63 (For Specialized Knowledge workers).
Temporary Transfer
Additionally, the term “temporary transfer” is often mentioned in ICT discussions. While your aim may be to transition your Intra Company Transfer Canada to PR, it’s crucial to remember that your initial status in Canada is that of a temporary worker. Despite its temporary nature, this status does not restrict the potential for obtaining permanent residency in the future.
To provide a comprehensive overview, the journey from an intra company transfer Canada to PR in Canada, is a multi-step process. It begins with a qualifying job and employer, progresses through the ICT Work permit process, and ideally concludes with the achievement of PR status through one of Canada’s immigration programs. The path necessitates a deep understanding and adept navigation of terms like ICT Work permit to PR Canada, LMIA Exempt Work Permit processing time, Transferring work permit to new employer, ICT Code, and temporary transfer.
While these terminologies may seem intimidating at the outset, their thorough comprehension can significantly bolster your chances of successfully transitioning from an Intra Company Transfer Canada to PR. With determination, patience, and the right professional guidance, your dream of making Canada your permanent home via an intra company transfer is very much within reach.
Expert guidance can be instrumental in navigating the labyrinth of Canadian immigration laws. Having a professional at your side who is well-versed in understanding the ICT work permit to PR Canada pathway, the intricacies of LMIA Exempt Work Permit processing time, and the process of transferring a work permit to a new employer can prove to be a game-changer. Moreover, their proficiency in interpreting and applying the ICT Code, combined with a comprehensive understanding of the temporary transfer process, can help ensure a smooth intra-company transfer to Canada.
Ultimately, your goal is to secure permanent residency in Canada. Achieving this objective involves a multitude of steps, each requiring a unique set of skills and knowledge. In the early stages, you may require assistance in confirming your eligibility for an intra company transfer. This involves understanding the ICT Code associated with your position and ensuring your role is accurately represented in your application.
Once your ICT work permit has been granted, your focus will shift towards transitioning to permanent residency. At this stage, your guide can help you understand the various immigration programs you may qualify for, such as the Canadian Experience Class or a Provincial Nominee Program and guide you through the application process.
LMIA Exempt Work Permit Processing Times
Understanding the LMIA Exempt Work Permit processing time is another essential aspect of the journey. Although you are exempt from the LMIA requirement as an intra company transferee, knowing the processing time for an LMIA Exempt Work Permit can help you plan your move more efficiently.
The journey from an intra company transfer to Canada, and then to PR, is one that requires careful planning and a deep understanding of the intricacies involved. While this journey can seem daunting, with determination, patience, and the right guidance from Bluewater Immigration, your dream of securing permanent residency in Canada can certainly become a reality.
To begin this journey, we encourage you to book a strategic consultation with us. As one of the top 10 immigration consultants in Canada, we pride ourselves on our ability to understand your unique needs and objectives, enabling us to develop a customized immigration strategy designed to achieve your goals. Trust us to guide you through your immigration journey with precision, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to your success.
Don’t risk your ICT application; Do it right the first time. Book a strategy meeting with me, an expert in intra-company transfers. I’ll guide you through the complex process, ensure eligibility, and maximize your chances of success. Schedule a call now and secure your future in Canada!