Intra-Company Transfer

Intra-company transfer program allows foreign business owners to start a new company, expand their existing business (open a branch) to Canada. Key employees of a foreign company may also come to work in Canada for start-up operations. 

This program also allows foreign businesses to bring their key employees to their related Canadian offices. There must be a relationship between the foreign and Canadian businesses in a parent, subsidiary, branch, or affiliate capacity. 

Spouses and children of the applicants may also get an open work permit and study permit. 

After working at the Canadian company for 1 year, applicants are eligible to apply for permanent residence status in Canada.

Requirements

• Applicants who want to get a work permit under this program must have been employed by the foreign company for at least 12 months within the last 3 years as an executive or senior manager, functional manager, or specialized knowledge employees
• The foreign company cannot be new. It must be operational for at least 12 months
• The foreign company must have the financial ability to start a business in Canada and compensate employees (start-ups)

Duration of work permit

• 1 year for start-ups
• 2 years for established companies
• The work permit can be extended for up to 7 years for executives and managers and for up to 5 years for specialized knowledge employees

Language requirements

Usually, there is not a language requirement for business owners but other employees may be required to provide English or French test results

Investment requirements for establishing a new business

There is no minimum investment requirement, but the foreign business must be financially capable of successfully establishing and operating the Canadian business.