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Alberta Immigration

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Are you dreaming of a better future in Canada? Look no further than Alberta, a province renowned for its thriving economy, diverse industries, and warm embrace of immigrants. With a strong focus on economic growth, innovation, and the attraction of skilled workers, Alberta immigration offers an array of opportunities for individuals seeking a new beginning.

Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP)

The Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) is an economic immigration program that nominates people for permanent residence in Alberta. Nominees must have skills to fill job shortages or be planning to buy or start a business in Alberta. Alberta understands the importance of a seamless transition and successful integration for newcomers. That’s why the province provides an extensive range of support and settlement services from orientation programs and language training to employment assistance and housing guidance.

AAIP Streams

The AAIP offers streams for both skilled workers and entrepreneurs:

Worker Streams

  • Alberta Opportunity Stream (AOS) — for workers already in Alberta
  • Alberta Express Entry Stream — for candidates in the federal Express Entry pool
  • Dedicated Health Care Pathway — for healthcare professionals (Express Entry and non-Express Entry)
  • Accelerated Tech Pathway — for technology professionals
  • Priority Sectors Stream — for workers in agriculture, aviation, and other high-demand sectors
  • Tourism and Hospitality Stream
  • Rural Renewal Stream — for workers in designated rural communities
  • Law Enforcement Pathway

Entrepreneur Streams

  • Foreign Graduate Entrepreneur Stream
  • Farm Stream
  • Rural Entrepreneur Stream

Key 2026 AAIP Updates

  • Effective April 7, 2026, a $135 non-refundable fee applies to submit a Worker Expression of Interest (WEOI) to enter the AAIP pool. This is separate from the $1,500 application fee required if invited to apply.
  • Effective April 1, 2025, the application fee for AAIP worker streams increased to $1,500 CAD. This applies to the Alberta Express Entry Stream, AOS, and other worker-based streams.
  • Effective February 25, 2026, the WEOI form requires candidates with an Alberta job offer to provide wage and hours-of-work information. WEOIs submitted before this date that are missing this information will not be considered in draws that use these factors.
  • Effective January 1, 2026, the Rural Renewal Stream (RRS) has new eligibility criteria. Applications received on or after January 1, 2026 are subject to the updated requirements.
  • In 2026, the AAIP is prioritizing draws in healthcare, technology, construction, manufacturing, aviation, agriculture, and communities designated under the Rural Renewal Stream.

Alberta Opportunity Stream (AOS) — Eligibility

The AOS is designed for temporary foreign workers already living and working in Alberta. Key requirements include:

  • Valid work permit
  • At least 12 months of work experience in Alberta in the last 18 months, or 24 months of Canadian work experience in the last 30 months
  • Occupation must meet TEER category requirements
  • Minimum language proficiency (CLB level varies by occupation)
  • Job offer from an Alberta employer

Alberta Express Entry Stream

The Alberta Express Entry Stream nominates candidates who already have an active profile in the federal Express Entry pool. Since September 30, 2024, Alberta uses a Worker Expression of Interest (WEOI) system, candidates must submit a WEOI and wait for an invitation to apply.

  • Active Express Entry profile required
  • Minimum CRS score of 300
  • Ties to Alberta (work experience, education, family connection, or job offer)
  • Occupation must be in demand in Alberta

As of September 30, 2024, the AAIP no longer accepts direct applications. All worker stream applicants must first submit a Worker Expression of Interest (WEOI) through the AAIP portal and wait to be invited to apply.

Settlement Services in Alberta

Alberta offers comprehensive settlement support to newcomers including: informative sessions and orientation programs, language training, employment assistance, housing and healthcare guidance. Immigrant-serving organizations and community groups provide tailored resources to help newcomers integrate successfully.

Ready to make Alberta your home? Contact ImmigCanada today for a personalized assessment with RCIC Eivy Joy Quito (#R512178).