Successful business owners can apply for the ICT program to expand into Canada, with the following requirements:

• The parent company must have been operating for at least 12 months (preferably 3 years).
• The company must have strong financials to support operations in Canada.
• The applicant must have worked for the company for at least 12 months within the 3 years prior to applying.
• The parent company must have a relationship with the company in Canada (parent, subsidiary, or affiliate).

If this is the first time the company is expanding into Canada, a clear business plan is required to ensure the ability to create jobs and effectively manage the business in Canada.

Company in Canada Requirements:

• Must have a close relationship with the Vietnamese business, such as a parent company or subsidiary.
• No minimum investment is required, but investors should have at least $100,000 CAD to operate the business.
• A business plan outlining the business strategy for opening a branch in Canada.
• Proof of having purchased or leased a business location in Canada.
• It is advisable to have at least one employee.

Investor Requirements:

• Education: At least high school graduation.
• English proficiency: Minimum CLB 4 at the time of PR application.
• Clean background and good health.
• Must have held a senior management position at the Vietnamese company for at least 12 months within the last 3 years.
• Must continue to hold a similar position in the new business in Canada.

Advantages of the Program:

• No minimum investment requirement.
• No need to prove financial resources.
• No need to obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
• Spouses and dependent children can apply to accompany them to Canada for work and study.
• Work Permit processing time is 3-4 months after application submission.
• Work Permit is valid for one year and can be extended for up to 7 years.
• Applications for Permanent Residency (PR) can be submitted through various Federal or Provincial programs.

Key Differences of the ICT Program:

• Family PR: Obtain PR for the entire family, including spouses and dependent children under 22 years old, quickly in just 1.5 to 2 years.
• Citizen Benefits: Enjoy all benefits such as social security, tax credits, healthcare, and free education for children from grades 1 to 12.
• Business Freedom: Opportunities for multi-industry business development, with the freedom to live, study, and work in any province in Canada.

The Canadian government does not require a minimum investment for businesses expanding into Canada. However, companies need to have strong finances and sufficient capital to operate, including hiring local staff.

Based on experience, businesses should demonstrate annual revenue of over $250,000 and a minimum of $100,000 to cover expenses for the first year. Additionally, supplemental financial resources are necessary to support the business if it is not self-sustaining after the first year.

How to Apply for the ICT Work Permit:

First, you need to ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for the program. Then, develop a strategy to persuade Canadian immigration authorities and gather evidence to support your application.

Basic Steps for the Initial ICT Application:

1. Register the company in Canada as a parent company, subsidiary, or affiliate.
2. Prepare a business plan that includes projected operations, market research, recruitment plans, and cash flow forecasts for 2-3 years.
3. Collect the necessary documents (bank statements, proof of investment funds, etc.) and prepare the work permit application.
4. Submit the application and wait for a decision.

Note: The process may vary depending on nationality, and visa-exempt citizens may apply at the port of entry (POE).