The year 2024 was a landmark one for the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP), as it broke records, implemented new policies, and prioritized support for temporary foreign workers transitioning to permanent residency. Amid natural challenges like wildfires, the AAIP demonstrated resilience and adaptability, cementing its role as a pivotal program in Alberta’s immigration landscape.
A Record-Breaking Year for AAIP
In 2024, the AAIP issued an impressive 9,942 nominations, surpassing its federal allocation of 9,750. Over 85% of these nominations were awarded to temporary foreign workers (TFWs) already contributing to Alberta’s economy. By doing so, the province reaffirmed its commitment to helping these workers achieve permanent residency.
In addition, the AAIP assessed 924 nominee applicants with expiring work permits and issued 777 work permit support letters under the Temporary Public Policy to Facilitate Work Permits for Prospective Provincial Nominee Program Candidates. These applicants will have their nominations evaluated in 2025 or 2026.
Significant Program Updates in 2024
Alberta’s rapid population growth over recent years has necessitated several updates to its immigration streams. In 2024, the province introduced new pathways, adjusted application processes, and temporarily paused certain streams to meet increasing demand.
Introduction of New Streams
- Tourism and Hospitality Stream: Launched on February 13, this new Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) stream aims to support Alberta’s vibrant tourism and hospitality industry by attracting skilled workers to the sector.
- Law Enforcement Pathway: On June 25, Alberta introduced a unique immigration pathway to address challenges in police recruitment. This pathway allocated 50 nominations to PNP candidates in 2024.
New Expression of Interest (EOI) System
To better manage high application volumes, AAIP implemented several changes:
- Pause on Applications: On February 15, applications for the Alberta Opportunity Stream were temporarily halted to implement new guidelines and manage the demand more effectively.
- Monthly Intake System: Beginning June 11, 2024, the AAIP adopted a monthly intake approach for several streams, including:
- Alberta Opportunity Stream
- Rural Renewal Stream
- Accelerated Tech Pathway
- Tourism and Hospitality Stream
- Expression of Interest System: On September 30, the province replaced the monthly intake model with an EOI system for worker streams. Candidates now submit a Worker Expression of Interest and are ranked on a points grid. Those with the highest scores receive invitations to apply for nomination.
Temporary Measures for Wildfire-Affected Applicants
To support those impacted by Alberta’s wildfires, AAIP introduced temporary measures from July 19 to November 30, 2024. These included extended deadlines to meet program criteria. Additionally, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) offered free document replacement services and options for status restoration or extension.
Incentive for Skilled Workers in Trades
In April 2024, Alberta launched the “Alberta is Calling” program, offering a one-time refundable tax credit of $5,000 to attract up to 2,000 skilled tradespeople. This initiative aims to address labor shortages in critical sectors like housing and infrastructure development.
About the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program
Formerly known as the Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program, the AAIP is a Provincial Nominee Program designed to nominate individuals for permanent residency in Alberta. Through this program, the province can address its economic needs by selecting candidates whose skills align with local labor market demands.
Streams for Foreign Workers
- Alberta Opportunity Stream
- Rural Renewal Stream
- Tourism and Hospitality Stream
- Alberta General Express Entry Stream:
- Dedicated Health Care Pathway
- Accelerated Tech Pathway
- Law Enforcement Pathway
- Experience in in-demand occupations with family connections in Alberta
- Key sector pathways (e.g., agriculture and construction)
Streams for Entrepreneurs
- Farm Stream
- Graduate Entrepreneur Stream
- Foreign Graduate Entrepreneur Stream
- Rural Entrepreneur Stream
How to Apply to the AAIP
Prospective applicants must first determine their eligibility for one of the AAIP streams. For worker streams, candidates submit a Worker Expression of Interest and are ranked on a points grid. Those who score highest receive invitations to apply for nomination.
For enhanced streams aligned with Express Entry, a nomination awards an additional 600 Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points, significantly increasing the chance of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
Candidates in Express Entry who express interest in Alberta may receive a Notification of Interest and must respond within two weeks. If selected, they apply through the AAIP portal.
The AAIP’s achievements in 2024 underscore its critical role in supporting Alberta’s economic and labor market needs. From record-breaking nominations to innovative new streams and a responsive EOI system, the program has shown its ability to adapt and thrive. With these measures, Alberta continues to attract skilled workers and entrepreneurs, ensuring the province remains a top destination for newcomers.
