The Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) program in Canada is a unique initiative that allows key personnel from a foreign company to temporarily transfer to its Canadian branch, subsidiary, or affiliate. This program is a part of Canada’s International Mobility Program, designed to enhance the competitiveness of Canadian businesses. However, one question that often arises is: how long can you stay in Canada with an ICT Visa? This article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the duration of stay permitted with an ICT Visa and the factors that can influence it.

Understanding Intra-Company Transfer

The ICT program is designed to facilitate the temporary transfer of key personnel from a foreign company to its Canadian counterpart. This program allows Canadian businesses to benefit from the specialized expertise of international staff, thereby contributing to the country’s economic growth. However, it’s important to note that the ICT program is a temporary work permit program, and the duration of stay in Canada is subject to certain conditions. Understanding these conditions is crucial for ICT Visa holders to plan their stay in Canada effectively.

Duration of Stay with an ICT Visa

An ICT Visa allows the holder to stay in Canada for a specific period of time. Generally, the initial ICT work permit is issued for a maximum of three years for executive and managerial positions, and for a maximum of two years for specialized knowledge positions. However, the actual duration of the permit may depend on the offer of employment and the reciprocity with the foreign worker’s country of citizenship. It’s important to note that the duration of stay is determined by the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) at the time of issuing the work permit and can vary based on individual circumstances.

Extensions of ICT Visa

While the ICT Visa is temporary, there are provisions for extending the visa. For executive and managerial positions, the work permit can be extended in increments of up to two years, for a maximum total duration of seven years. For specialized knowledge positions, the work permit can also be extended in increments of up to two years, but the maximum total duration is five years. The extension of the ICT Visa is subject to approval by the IRCC and requires the applicant to demonstrate continued compliance with the terms of the visa.

Transitioning from ICT Visa to Other Visas

In some cases, ICT Visa holders may wish to extend their stay in Canada beyond the maximum duration allowed by the ICT Visa. In such cases, they may consider transitioning to other types of visas or permits, such as the Express Entry program for skilled workers. However, transitioning to another visa requires meeting the eligibility criteria for that visa and going through a separate application process. It’s important for ICT Visa holders to plan ahead and seek professional advice if they wish to transition to another visa.

Compliance with the Terms of the ICT Visa

It’s crucial for ICT Visa holders to comply with the terms of their visa, including the duration of stay. Overstaying the duration of the ICT Visa can have serious consequences, including being deemed inadmissible to Canada for a period of time. Therefore, it’s important for ICT Visa holders to keep track of their duration of stay and take necessary steps if they wish to extend their stay. Compliance with the terms of the visa not only ensures a smooth stay in Canada but also opens up possibilities for future opportunities, such as applying for PR.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the duration of stay with an ICT Visa in Canada is subject to certain conditions and can be extended under specific circumstances. ICT Visa holders wishing to extend their stay beyond the maximum duration allowed by the ICT Visa may consider transitioning to other types of visas, provided they meet the eligibility criteria. However, it’s crucial to comply with the terms of the ICT Visa to avoid any adverse consequences. With careful planning and adherence to the terms of the visa, ICT Visa holders can make the most of their stay in Canada.

Are you an ICT Visa holder with questions about your duration of stay in Canada? Or are you considering applying for an ICT Visa and wondering how long you can stay in Canada? Don’t hesitate to seek professional advice. Understanding the terms of your visa can help you make the most of your stay in Canada. If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out. Let’s work together to make your Canadian journey a success.