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The France Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) permit allows multinational companies to transfer employees from a foreign branch to a related entity in France for temporary work assignments.
This permit is commonly issued under the Talent Passport – ICT framework and is designed for managers, specialists, and trainee employees moving within the same corporate group.
At WorkPermitCheck, many applicants confuse ICT permits with standard work permits. The ICT route is specifically for internal corporate transfers and follows different rules.
What Is an Intra-Company Transfer Permit?
An intra-company transfer permit allows an employee who already works for a company abroad to be assigned temporarily to:
• A branch
• A subsidiary
• An affiliate
• The parent company in France
The employment relationship with the company group must already exist before the transfer.
Who Qualifies?
The ICT permit typically applies to:
• Managers and executives
• Specialists with advanced expertise
• Graduate trainees
Applicants usually must:
• Be employed by the company before transfer
• Have relevant qualifications or experience
• Be transferred within the same corporate group
• Hold a qualifying role in France
Authorities review whether the transfer is genuine.
Key Features of the France ICT Permit
The ICT permit:
• Is employer and company-group specific
• Is temporary
• Allows residence and work in France
• Is not a standard local hire permit
• May allow limited EU mobility under ICT rules
Changing employers outside the corporate group usually requires a new permit.
Duration
Typical maximum duration:
• Managers and specialists: up to 3 years
• Trainees: shorter duration
After the maximum period, renewal under ICT rules may be limited.
Required Documents
Common documentation includes:
• Employment contract with the sending company
• Assignment letter for France
• Proof of corporate relationship between entities
• Qualification evidence
• Salary information
• Passport and supporting documents
Incomplete corporate documentation is a common cause of refusal.
Difference Between ICT Permit and Standard Work Permit
The ICT permit:
• Requires existing employment abroad
• Is limited to internal transfers
• Does not allow free employer change
• May follow different eligibility and salary rules
Standard work permits apply to local recruitment.
Does ICT Lead to Permanent Residence?
The ICT permit is temporary. While time spent legally in France may contribute to residence history, ICT status alone does not automatically lead to permanent residence.
Applicants often switch to another permit category for long-term settlement.
Common Risks and Mistakes
Applications may face issues due to:
• Weak proof of corporate relationship
• Incorrect job classification
• Salary below required level
• Attempting local hire under ICT
• Exceeding maximum stay limits
Proper classification is essential.
How WorkPermitCheck Helps
WorkPermitCheck provides independent verification support to help:
• Confirm corporate transfer eligibility
• Review employer documentation
• Check ICT classification alignment
• Identify documentation gaps
• Reduce refusal risks
We do not issue permits. We verify authenticity and compliance indicators.
Key Takeaway
The France intra-company transfer permit is designed for employees temporarily assigned within multinational companies.
It requires:
• Existing employment relationship
• Corporate group transfer
• Role qualification
• Employer sponsorship
It is not intended for general hiring.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for an ICT permit without working for the company first?
No. You must already be employed by the company.
Can I change employers in France under ICT?
No, unless you switch to another permit category.
Is the ICT permit permanent?
No. It is temporary.
Can ICT lead to PR?
Not directly, but status change may allow long-term residence.
Is ICT only for executives?
No. Specialists and trainees may also qualify.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. France ICT permit rules may vary depending on individual circumstances. Always confirm official requirements with French authorities. WorkPermitCheck provides independent verification support and does not issue visas or residence permits.
February 23, 2026
