On February 15, the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) has halted the processing of applications for the Alberta Opportunity Stream until further notice.
The AAIP cites the need for time to manage its current application backlog and to allocate immigration nominations strategically, prioritizing sectors facing labor shortages such as healthcare, technology, construction, agriculture, tourism, hospitality, and other high-demand fields.
Applications submitted prior to February 15 will still be assessed, and the province plans to implement measures to regulate future application volumes according to program priorities while upholding reasonable service standards across its streams.
The Alberta Opportunity Stream within the AAIP is tailored for full-time temporary foreign workers already employed in the province under a valid Canadian work permit, and who possess a full-time job offer from an Alberta-based employer. Additionally, holders of Post-Graduation Work Permits may qualify for this stream.
Alberta Opens New Immigration Program: Tourism and Hospitality Stream
Started on March 1, the AAIP will introduce a novel stream aimed at individuals who have been employed with a tourism and hospitality business for a minimum of six months and have satisfied the criteria for establishing permanent residency in Alberta.
Applicants are required to hold a valid full-time, non-seasonal job offer from an authorized employer within the relevant industry.