Qualifying multinational businesses may transfer certain executives, senior managers or specialized-knowledge employees to a related Canadian entity under an LMIA exemption.
What must be assessed
- Qualifying relationship between the entities
- Required employment with the foreign enterprise
- Executive, managerial or specialized-knowledge role
- Genuine Canadian operations and business need
- Employer compliance and temporary assignment
How we approach a Intra-Company Transfer matter
- Review eligibility, status, immigration history and the intended outcome.
- Identify the controlling requirements, weaknesses and time-sensitive issues.
- Build an evidence plan that matches the facts rather than relying on generic document lists.
- Prepare forms and written representations for consistency, accuracy and material disclosure.
- Review the final record before submission and advise on later requests or developments within the retainer.
Common reasons applications become difficult
Problems often arise from inconsistent forms, unexplained gaps, weak source documents, assumptions based on outdated program information or failure to disclose a prior refusal or status issue. A complete application should make the relevant facts easy to verify and should address foreseeable concerns directly.
Frequently asked questions
Can any employee of a foreign company transfer to Canada?
No. The corporate relationship, prior employment, Canadian role and worker’s level of responsibility or specialized knowledge must satisfy the program.
Can approval be guaranteed?
No. The decision belongs to the responsible Canadian authority. Professional representation improves preparation and clarity but cannot guarantee an outcome.
Where can I confirm the current government requirements?
Review the official Government of Canada immigration information. Requirements can change, and case-specific advice should be based on the rules in force when you apply.
Immigration criteria, document requirements and public policies can change. Advice should be based on the rules and facts applicable when you apply.