Intra-corporate transfer of employees (ICT card)

From Auswärtiges Amt

“The visa decision is made by the German consular post in Vietnam. This visa category typically requires the consent of the foreigners-authority responsible for your future work location; a Vorabzustimmung from the Federal Employment Agency or the responsible foreigners-authority materially shortens processing. Note: applicants aged 45 and over must show evidence of adequate retirement provision. Provide suitable proof of retirement security at the time of application (e.g. real estate, securities, insurance).”

— Federal Foreign Office of Germany · German diplomatic missions

What you need

You must show an employment contract with the sending branch specifying location, type, salary, and other working conditions for the duration of the transfer; a return clause to the sending branch; and a minimum six-month lead time before the transfer begins. If the transfer is not already regulated in the contract, you must also provide an assignment letter. Depending on your role, you must additionally show proof of qualification as an executive, specialist, or trainee. In addition: a tabular CV, a passport, biometric photos, and medical-insurance cover until you start work. A Vorabzustimmung from the Federal Employment Agency or the responsible foreigners-authority materially shortens processing.

Checklist

Application and identity

Application form for national visas, completely filled out and signed by the applicant (online application form via VIDEX) *
Two recent biometric passport photos (45 mm x 35 mm) (photo specifications template). Please glue only one photo onto the application form and bring the second loose *
Valid passport (or a recognised substitute travel document) *

Curriculum vitae

Tabular and complete CV. In particular setting out your prior education and employment *

Employment contract, assignment, and pre-approval

(Optional) Vorabzustimmung. If your employer has already obtained the consent of the Federal Employment Agency or the responsible foreigners-authority in Germany before the visa procedure begins, the consular post's processing time is materially shortened
Employment contract. The employment contract must contain details on location, type, salary, and other working conditions for the duration of the intra-corporate transfer. It must also show that, after the transfer ends, you can return to the branch or business unit that sent you. The contract must additionally have been concluded at least 6 months before the transfer begins and remain continuously valid until the end of the transfer *
If applicable: assignment letter. An assignment letter is required if the transfer to the German branch of the company/corporate group is not regulated in the employment contract

Proof of qualification

Proof of qualification as an executive. Proof that you will be entrusted with the management and control of the company or business unit in Germany, or of a department or subdivision
Proof of qualification as a specialist. Proof that you have special expertise essential for the German business unit and that you have appropriate professional experience
Proof of qualification as a trainee. Proof that you are completing a trainee programme for which you are paid and which serves your professional development or further training

Medical insurance

Proof of adequate medical insurance for entry, valid from your intended entry date until you start work *