Intra-company transferee

A foreign buyer who wants to move an executive or specialist into a Canadian business may meet this term. IRCC says you need a work permit if you work for a multinational company and are coming to Canada to work at a parent company, subsidiary, branch or affiliate. It names two types of eligible transferee: those eligible under a trade agreement, and those who provide significant economic benefit to Canada by sharing their expertise.

What IRCC lists for the second type

• A transfer to a position in an executive, senior managerial or specialized knowledge role.
• Continuous work for the transferring company outside Canada for at least 1 year in the 3 years before applying, IRCC says, with some exceptions.
• An offer of employment the employer submits to IRCC, an employer compliance fee the employer pays, and an offer of employment number the employer gives the worker.
• For a specialized knowledge worker, no specialized training from employees that could displace Canadian workers.

Why it matters on a sale

IRCC says a holder of an employer-specific permit who wants to change jobs or employers in Canada must apply for a new work permit, if eligible. If the target employs people on these permits, ask how an ownership change affects each one. See whether a foreign buyer can buy a Canadian business and the employer-specific work permit.