Intra-Comapny Transfer Visa
An ICT visa is a work permit that allows employees to relocate from a branch of their company in one country to another country where the same company has operations. It’s commonly used by large organizations to manage talent and facilitate international projects, skills transfer, and business expansion. This visa is beneficial for both the company (in terms of skills continuity) and the employee (in terms of career growth).
Eligibility Criteria for ICT Visa
To be eligible for an intra-company transfer, an employee typically needs to:
- Be employed by the company for a certain period (often 1-2 years, depending on the country’s regulations).
- Possess skills, knowledge, or expertise crucial to the role in the new location.
- Be a manager, executive, or specialized employee.
Application Process
- Submitting proof of employment within the company.
- Providing evidence of specialized knowledge or managerial status.
- Employer support, as the company often must sponsor the visa.
- Proof of salary and financial support.
Types of Intra-Company Transfer Visas
Depending on the role and length of stay, countries may offer different ICT visa types. Common categories include:
- Short-term ICT Visas: For employees transferred on a temporary basis, usually less than 12 months.
- Long-term ICT Visas: For employees expected to work in the host country for extended periods, often up to 3-5 years.
- Graduate Trainee ICT Visas: Tailored for young professionals or recent graduates joining a structured training program with the company.
Required Documentation for ICT Visa Application
Each ICT application requires specific documentation to establish both the employee’s eligibility and the company’s support. Common documents include:
- Proof of Employment: An official letter from the company confirming the employee’s position and tenure.
- Job Description: A detailed outline of the employee’s role and responsibilities to prove the specialized nature of the job.
- Financial Documents: Proof of salary and financial support, such as pay slips or bank statements.
- Qualifications and Experience: Certificates or references demonstrating the employee’s expertise and suitability for the role.
- Additional Supporting Documents: Varies by country and may include health clearance, criminal background checks, and proof of residency or accommodation in the host country.
Country-Specific Guidelines for ICT Visas
Different countries have unique requirements and stipulations for ICT visas. Here are some examples:
- United States (L-1 Visa): This visa type requires the employee to have been with the company for at least one year out of the last three and is divided into L-1A (for executives and managers) and L-1B (for specialized knowledge employees).
- United Kingdom (Intra-Company Transfer Visa): Employees must have worked with the employer for at least 12 months and meet minimum salary thresholds. There is also a “Graduate Trainee” variant.
- Canada (ICT Work Permit): Canada allows intra-company transferees in managerial or specialized roles. The company must show that the transfer is essential to the Canadian branch’s operations.
- Australia (Temporary Skill Shortage Visa, Subclass 482): Although not an ICT visa per se, it facilitates intra-company transfers, provided that the applicant has the relevant skills, and the sponsoring employer qualifies.
