Manoj Palwe explains Recent changes in Canada's Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) visa processing!!

Recent changes in Canada's Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) visa processing have introduced new regulations and requirements aimed at tightening eligibility and ensuring the integrity of the program. Here are 11 key points highlighting these updates:

1. Stricter Multinational Corporation Definition:

The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) now requires that companies applying for ICT visas must demonstrate they are genuine multinational corporations, with revenue-generating operations in at least two countries. This change aims to prevent misuse of the ICT program by entities lacking a real international presence

2. Enhanced Specialized Knowledge Criteria:

The definition of "specialized knowledge" has been refined to better assess whether an applicant possesses unique skills essential for the Canadian operation. This clarification is intended to ensure that only truly skilled workers are transferred under this program

3. Increased Eligibility Scrutiny:

The updated guidelines impose stricter eligibility criteria for foreign nationals applying for ICT visas. This includes a more thorough vetting process to ensure applicants meet the necessary qualifications

4. Focus on Key Employee Transfers:

The IRCC emphasizes that the ICT program should not be used to transfer a company's general workforce to Canadian affiliates. Instead, it should focus on transferring key employees with specialized knowledge crucial to the business operations in Canada

5. Documentation Requirements:

Companies must provide robust documentation supporting their claims about the employee's specialized knowledge and the benefits their role will bring to Canada. This includes evidence of the company's operations and the employee's qualifications

6. Physical Presence Requirement:

The revised guidelines stipulate that ICT employees must work at a physical commercial location in Canada. Companies operating from non-commercial or residential locations, or those functioning entirely virtually, may no longer qualify for the ICT program

7. Maximum Stay Duration Clarified:

The maximum initial duration of stay for ICT workers is set at three years, with options for two-year renewals thereafter. This is part of a broader effort to manage temporary resident programs effectively

8. Changes in Application Processing Times:

Processing times for ICT visa applications typically range from 4 to 12 weeks, but factors such as application completeness and the workload at IRCC offices can affect these timelines significantly

9. Implications for Free Trade Agreements:

The updated guidelines also align with various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), standardizing instructions for ICT applications under these agreements, thus making the application process more consistent across different treaties

10. Ongoing Reforms in Immigration Policy:

These changes are part of IRCC’s broader strategy to reduce temporary resident numbers in Canada, aiming to decrease the proportion from 6.5% to 5% over three years. This reflects a shift towards more stringent immigration policies overall

11. Recommendations for Applicants:

Businesses are advised to prepare thoroughly by investing in comprehensive documentation and understanding the new requirements before submitting applications. This preparation is crucial given the increased scrutiny expected under the new guidelines

These updates signal a significant shift in Canada's approach to managing its ICT visa program, focusing on ensuring that it serves its intended purpose of facilitating skilled worker transfers within legitimate multinational corporations while maintaining rigorous standards for eligibility and compliance.

I am a member of the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC ID- R422575), and also a registered member of the Canadian Association of Professional Immigration Consultant with a member (CAPIC ID-R11592). Please visit our website https://www.dreamvisas.com

For personalized immigration advice or to explore business migration options, feel free to reach out/ WhatsApp at +91 98220 33225/ [email protected], [email protected]

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