Global expansion isn’t just about opening offices overseas—it’s also about moving your best talent where they’re needed most. Whether you’re a fast-growing startup or a multinational corporation, Intra Company Transfers (ICT) play a crucial role in driving operational success across borders.
In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about intra company transfer visa—from eligibility criteria to the best countries that support this process.
Let’s dive in.
What is an Intra Company Transfer (ICT)?
An Intra Company Transfer (ICT) is a legal pathway that enables multinational companies to relocate key employees—such as managers, executives, or specialists, from one of their overseas branches to an affiliated office, subsidiary, or headquarters in another country.
Think of it as an internal job relocation, just on a global scale.
These visas are designed to help businesses:
- Fill skill gaps in foreign offices
- Ensure knowledge transfer across countries
- Execute short- or long-term projects
- Groom future leadership
Who is Eligible for an Intra Corporate Transfer?
Eligibility criteria vary from one country to another, but some common conditions include:
For Employees:
- Must be employed by the firm (or its parent/affiliate) for a minimum of 6–12 months
- Typically hold a managerial, executive, or specialist role
- Maintain active employment during the transfer period
- Proof of qualifications or experience (sometimes required)
For Companies:
- Must have a corporate relationship (parent, subsidiary, branch, or affiliate) with the foreign entity
- The host entity must be registered and authorized to sponsor foreign workers
- Demonstrate a legitimate business need for the transfer
Important: Some countries may allow dependents (spouse and children) to accompany the transferred employee and even apply for dependent permits.
Top Countries That Offer Intra Corporate Transfer Visa
Here are some of the most popular destinations that offer intra company transfer visas—each with its unique benefits and regulations.
1. Canada
Canada’s ICT visa falls under the International Mobility Program and allows companies to bring key employees without the requirement for an LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment). It helps both new businesses and well-established companies that want to grow.
Key Perks:
- Pathway to PR for eligible applicants
- Fast-track processing for tech workers
2. Spain
Spain offers an ICT residence permit for corporate transfers within multinational groups. The country’s strategic position in Europe and relaxed lifestyle make it attractive for both companies and expats.
Key Perks:
- Valid up to 3 years (renewable)
- Covers executives, managers, and specialists
3. United Kingdom
The UK’s Senior or Specialist Worker visa (replacing the ICT visa) is suitable for multinational professionals earning above the required salary threshold.
Key Perks:
- No English test required
- Salary-based eligibility
- Option to bring dependents
4. Germany
Germany allows ICT cards for managers, specialists, or trainees from non-EU branches of multinational companies. The host entity must be registered and compliant with German labor laws.
Key Perks:
- Up to 3-year permit
- Can be extended within the EU under ICT Directive
- Access to social benefits in some cases
Benefits of Intra Company Transfer
Both businesses and employees benefit greatly from using intra-corporate transfer visas. Here’s how:
For Employees:
- Global career growth: Exposure to international projects and new markets
- Better compensation: Opportunities for salary increases and bonuses
- Relocation support: Often includes housing, insurance, and visa sponsorship
- Path to residency: Some countries offer PR options post-ICT
For Employers:
- Talent mobility: Deploy experts where needed without hiring locally
- Knowledge transfer: Cross-border sharing of skills, ideas, and innovation
- Retention strategy: Employees see ICT as a loyalty incentive
- Regulatory advantage: Often exempt from local labor market tests
Conclusion
As companies go global, the need to move key employees across borders is becoming more strategic than ever. Whether it’s opening a new branch, scaling operations, or delivering a critical project, the intra company transfer visa offers a powerful legal pathway for smooth transitions.
From Canada to Spain, each country has its own benefits and compliance requirements, but the underlying opportunity is the same: global growth through seamless employee mobility.
If you’re a business leader or HR professional looking to expand your footprint internationally, speak with our business experts today.
FAQ’s
An intra company transfer visa allows employees of multinational companies to work in a foreign branch, affiliate, or subsidiary under an internal transfer.
Yes, in many countries like Canada or Germany, ICT employees may transition to permanent residency depending on their visa type and stay duration.
Typically, ICT permits last from 1 to 3 years. They are often renewable and may allow for PR applications after a few years.
Most nations permit dependents (spouse and children) to join the ICT holder, often with work and study rights.
