Intra-Company Transfer: Keys to a Successful Relocation in Spain

In today’s globalized business world, moving talent across borders has become a strategic necessity. The Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) is the fastest and most secure legal route to relocate skilled professionals from a non-EU branch to another in Spain. This mechanism allows companies to optimize resources, boost competitiveness, and accelerate their expansion plans without compromising legal security—for the employee or the business.

This comprehensive guide explains how ICT works, what legal requirements must be met, and how to manage the process efficiently. Whether you’re a large multinational or a growing company beginning internationalization, this information will help you make informed and confident decisions.

What is an Intra-Company Transfer in Spain?

The Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) is a residence authorization regulated by Spain’s Law on Support for Entrepreneurs and Internationalization. It is designed to facilitate the temporary relocation of highly qualified non-EU employees from a parent company or subsidiary abroad to another entity located in Spanish territory.

Importantly, the employee does not change employer—their contractual relationship remains with the original company, which ensures greater continuity and organizational consistency.

What is the ICT-EU?

The ICT-EU is a specific version of the intra-company transfer designed for:

• Executives and specialists: with a permit of up to 3 years.

• Employees in training: with a maximum duration of 1 year.

This permit enables mobility between different EU countries without needing to apply for a new visa or permit in each country, enhancing efficiency and cross-border movement.

 

Legal Requirements for ICT in Spain

To qualify for an Intra-Company Transfer, the company must meet the following key conditions:

1. Valid employment contract in the country of origin: The employee must remain contractually linked to the parent or sending entity.
2. Genuine and ongoing business activity: Both the sending and receiving entities must be legally operating and engaged in actual business.
3. Professional qualifications: The employee must hold a university degree or prove at least three years of qualified professional experience.
4. Prior employment relationship: The worker must have been employed within the corporate group for at least three months prior to the application.
5. Official documentation: A formal letter from the employer detailing the purpose, duration, and terms of the transfer must be submitted.

 

Where are Social Security contributions paid?

This is one of the most important factors to consider and depends on whether there is a bilateral Social Security agreement between Spain and the employee’s country of origin:

• If there is an agreement: Contributions may continue in the country of origin, subject to the time limits established.
• If there is no agreement: Contributions must begin in Spain from day one, which may also affect the type and duration of the permit.

You can check which countries have bilateral agreements with Spain’s Social Security system on the official website.

 

Key Steps in the ICT Application Process

The full ICT process can be summarized in the following stages:

1. Application submission: The host company in Spain submits the application to the Large Companies and Strategic Groups Unit (UGE-CE).
2. Visa application (if applicable): If the employee is outside of Spain, they must apply for an ICT visa at the appropriate consulate.
3. Application resolution: The response time is usually between 20 and 30 working days.
4. Start of employment: Once approved, the employee may begin working in Spain immediately upon arrival.

 

ICT Permit Renewal

The ICT residence permit can be renewed if all legal deadlines and requirements are met:

• Renewal must be requested between 60 days before and 90 days after the initial permit’s expiration.
• While the renewal is being processed, the employee may continue working as long as the original conditions remain in place.

 

Key Benefits of the Intra-Company Transfer

Both companies and workers benefit greatly from this permit:

• Streamlined processing: Centralized and fast-tracked, ideal for urgent staffing needs.

• Family relocation: Spouse and children can be included in a single application.

• Tax and contribution compatibility: In some cases, Social Security contributions may continue in the country of origin.

• Geographic flexibility: The ICT-EU allows mobility across EU countries without needing new applications.

• Multi-year validity: Stays of up to 3 years are allowed for executives and specialists.

Best Practices for Managing Intra-Company Transfers

At Adlanter, we’ve identified these best practices to ensure a smooth and compliant process:

• Develop a clear international mobility policy outlining criteria, roles, and responsibilities.

• Use digital tools to track and manage each case efficiently.

• Support the employee and their family through integration (housing, schooling, culture).

• Periodically evaluate the impact of the program to improve and adapt to new challenges.

FAQs about Intra-Company Transfers in Spain

Does the ICT permit allow me to bring my family?

• • Yes. Spouses and minor children can be included in the same application, simplifying the process and supporting family integration.

Can I work in another European country with the ICT-EU?

• • Yes. The ICT-EU allows movement between EU member states without the need for additional visas, provided the destination country is notified.

How long does the whole process take?

• • Generally between 3 to 6 weeks, depending on the country of origin and the readiness of the documentation.

What happens if my permit expires and I haven’t renewed it?

• • You have up to 90 days after expiration to renew it, but it’s best to apply at least 30 days before it expires.

Can I change companies while holding an ICT permit?

• • No. The permit is tied to the sponsoring company. A new employer would require a new application.

What if I lose my contract with the original company?

• • If the original employment contract ends, the ICT permit is automatically void, so maintaining that relationship is essential.

 

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