Foreign companies can acquire a Canadian business and transfer key executives to Canada via LMIA-exempt Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) work permits under Canada's CUSMA (formerly NAFTA) and other trade agreements. The Canadian acquisition creates the qualifying domestic entity required for ICT transfers.
BizBuy.ca handles the business acquisition only. Corporate immigration strategy and ICT applications require a licensed corporate immigration lawyer or RCIC.
Under Canada's Intra-Company Transfer provisions, a foreign national who is an executive, manager, or specialized knowledge worker at a foreign parent/subsidiary/affiliate may transfer to a qualifying Canadian entity on a LMIA-exempt work permit.
The key requirement is that a qualifying corporate relationship exists between the foreign and Canadian entities — parent/subsidiary, sister companies, or affiliates under common ownership.
By acquiring a Canadian business, a foreign company creates the qualifying Canadian entity. Once the acquisition closes, ICT work permits can be issued to executives transferring to manage the Canadian operation.
Corporate Relationship
Foreign entity owns or controls the Canadian entity (parent, subsidiary, or affiliate)
Worker Category
Executive, Senior Manager, or Specialized Knowledge
Prior Employment
At least 1 year at the foreign entity in the past 3 years
Active Canadian Entity
Canadian company must be actively doing business — not dormant
Trade Agreement
CUSMA (US/Mexico), CETA (EU), CPTPP (Asia-Pacific) — different rules apply
We identify Canadian businesses suited for corporate acquisition — matching your industry vertical, deal size ($500K–$5M+), and strategic fit with the foreign parent.
We structure share vs. asset purchase, holding company setup, and ownership documentation to satisfy the ICT qualifying-entity requirements.
Post-close, we support the business integration and can connect you with corporate immigration counsel for the ICT permit applications.
Book a consultation to discuss acquisition targets, corporate structure, and how an acquisition can support your ICT immigration strategy.