How to get an ICT Work Permit in Canada: Your Easy-Peasy Guide

So you’ve heard all the buzz about the Great White North and are itching to take your tech skills to Canada, eh? Well, you’re in luck! Canada has this nifty thing called the Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) work permit. But what the heck is that and how do you snag one? Buckle up, buddy. We’re going for a ride through the maple syrup-filled path to the ICT.

Step 1: Know the Basics

Before we dive deep, here’s the gist: the ICT work permit lets you, a skilled worker from a foreign company, work for its Canadian branch. Think of it as Canada’s way of saying, “Hey, if you’ve got the skills, come on over!”

Step 2: Are You Eligible?

Now, not to rain on your parade, but Canada has some criteria you gotta meet. Let’s break it down:

1. Company Connection: You must currently be employed by a company that has a parent, subsidiary, branch, or affiliate in Canada. Basically, there should be a clear link between your current employer and the Canadian gig.
2. Role Matters: There are three roles Canada is looking for:
   • Executives: Big bosses making big decisions.
   • Senior Managers: The ones handling the teams, divisions, or functions.
   • Specialized Knowledge Workers: If you’ve got unique expertise in the company’s products or processes, you’re golden.
3. Time on the Job: You should have been with your current employer for at least one year in the last three. So, if you’ve been at your company for a while, you’ve got a head start!

Step 3: Gather Your Papers

Alright, before you hop on the plane, you gotta prove you’re the real deal. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Proof of Employment: Letters from your current employer and the Canadian branch detailing your position, duration of transfer, and a description of your job.
2. Credentials: Any degrees, certificates, or anything else that backs up your role and expertise.
3. Passport: This one’s a no-brainer. Make sure it’s valid for your entire stay!

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Now that you’ve got all your ducks in a row, it’s application time. Head to the Canadian immigration website and follow the instructions for applying for a work permit outside Canada. Fill in the details, attach your docs, and hit that ‘Submit’ button!

Step 5: Patience, Grasshopper

Once you’ve applied, there’s some waiting involved. But don’t fret; Canada usually processes these pretty quickly. You might also be called for a biometrics appointment or an interview, so keep an eye on your inbox.

Step 6: Touchdown Canada!

If all goes well, you’ll get your shiny ICT work permit approval! Once you land in Canada, you’ll need to show your approval and other documents to the Canadian border services officer, and you’re good to go with that new ICT work permit!

One Last Thing: While this guide makes the process sound like a walk in a (very cold) park, it’s always a good idea to consult the official website or chat with an immigration expert just to be double sure.

So there you have it, your laid-back guide to the ICT work permit. Canada’s waiting, and with a bit of prep, it’s more than ready to welcome you with open arms (and maybe a jug of maple syrup)! 🍁🍁🍁

If you’re ever unsure about anything or need help understanding immigration regulations, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a qualified immigration professional for assistance.

You can book a consultation for case-specific queries.

Turningstone Immigration Consulting is a full-service Immigration consultancy. Our services are provided by a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC-IRB).

We deal in all types of immigration-related applications, like Permanent Residence (PR), Study Permits, Work Permits, PGWP, Visit Visa (Temporary Resident Visas), Super Visa, Family Sponsorships for PR Applications, Refusals, and much more. Contact Us Today.