For professionals and business owners seeking legal residency abroad, an intra-company transfer is often one of the most effective and efficient pathways—especially in countries with strict visa requirements, quotas, and other immigration hurdles.

Our experienced team specializes in guiding clients through this complex but highly strategic immigration route. Whether you’re looking to relocate to the United States, Canada, Switzerland, or EU member states, we help you navigate the process with precision, ensuring compliance while bypassing common restrictions.

What Is an Intra-Company Transfer?

An intra-company transfer (ICT) involves moving an employee from one location of a multinational company to another—typically to a branch, subsidiary, or affiliate in a different country. This relocation allows the employee to live and work abroad under a work and residence permit, often without needing to go through the general immigration process.

How It Leads to Legal Residency

Many countries have established special provisions or streamlined procedures for intra-company transferees. These programs allow qualifying employees to obtain legal residence more quickly and with fewer obstacles compared to standard immigration channels.

Key Country-Specific Provisions

  • European Union (EU)
    Under Directive 2014/66/EU, the EU allows for work and residence permits for managers, specialists, and trainees transferred within multinational companies.

  • Switzerland
    Permits are available for executives and highly qualified specialists from foreign companies with an established branch or affiliate in Switzerland, in accordance with the General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS).

  • Canada
    Canada offers an intra-company transfer program that waives the need for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), allowing foreign businesses to transfer key staff efficiently (source: Canadavisa.com).

Common Requirements for Intra-Company Transfers

The process, while efficient, requires careful planning and documentation. Key factors include:

  • Corporate Relationship
    A clear and demonstrable connection between the entities involved—such as a parent-subsidiary or affiliate relationship—is essential.

  • Employment History
    The transferee usually must have worked for the company (or its affiliates) for a minimum period, often at least 6–12 months.

  • Essential Role
    The employee must hold a critical or executive position, or possess specialized knowledge that is integral to the company’s operations in the destination country.

  • Documentation
    Required documents typically include proof of employment, corporate structure, transfer letters, valid travel documents, accommodation details, and completed applications.

Why Work With Us

Navigating the legal complexities of intra-company transfers requires more than just forms—it requires strategy, compliance insight, and country-specific expertise. Our team provides comprehensive, end-to-end support, tailored to your business goals and your target country.

Your first consultation with our experts will help outline your options, clarify requirements, and begin building a customized plan to achieve legal residency through an intra-company transfer.