Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP)

Formerly known as the Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP)

Welcome to Your Pathway to Alberta

The Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) offers international talent and entrepreneurs a direct route to permanent residency in one of Canada’s most dynamic provinces. Whether you’re aiming to fill an in-demand job or launch your own business, Alberta could be your next home.

From the vibrant urban energy of Calgary and Edmonton to the serene beauty of Banff, Alberta welcomes newcomers ready to contribute to its economy and communities.

🟢 [Explore Your Eligibility Now]

Scenic view of Moraine Lake in Alberta with text overlay: "Immigrate to Alberta – Alberta Advantage Immigration Program

Your gateway to Alberta: Explore permanent residency options through the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program.

Table of Contents


What is the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program?

The Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP), formerly known as the Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP), is a provincial economic immigration initiative jointly managed by the governments of Alberta and Canada. It allows Alberta to nominate individuals who have the skills, education, or business experience to meet the province’s labor market and economic needs.

Nominees through the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program, along with their spouse and dependent children, can apply for Canadian permanent residency through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Key Focus Areas: Healthcare, agriculture, hospitality, technology, energy, and skilled trades.

↑ Back to Top


Alberta Advantage Immigration Program Streams

There are eight active pathways under the AAIP, categorized into two main groups: worker streams and entrepreneur streams.

Worker Streams

  • Alberta Opportunity Stream
    For foreign workers currently employed full-time in Alberta in an eligible occupation. Requires a valid work permit, language proficiency (CLB 4–5), and recent local work experience.

  • Alberta Express Entry Stream
    For candidates in the federal Express Entry pool with a CRS score of 300 or more and demonstrated ties to Alberta. Nomination adds 600 CRS points toward PR.

  • Alberta Accelerated Tech Pathway
    A fast-track sub-stream under the Alberta Express Entry Stream for applicants with job offers in Alberta’s tech industry. Must meet Express Entry eligibility and hold a tech-related position.

  • Rural Renewal Stream
    For foreign workers with job offers in rural Alberta communities. Requires community endorsement and a minimum of 12 months’ relevant work experience.

  • Tourism and Hospitality Stream (Launched March 2024)
    For hospitality workers already working in Alberta’s tourism sector, such as hotel staff or restaurant employees, who hold a valid full-time job offer.

Entrepreneur Streams

  • Graduate Entrepreneur Stream
    For international graduates from Alberta post-secondary institutions who wish to start or purchase a business. Requires a Post-Graduate Work Permit and CLB 7.

  • Foreign Graduate Entrepreneur Stream
    For foreign-educated graduates outside Canada starting innovative businesses in Alberta. Requires support from a designated agency and investment starting at $50,000.

  • Rural Entrepreneur Stream
    For business owners wishing to operate in a rural Alberta community. Requires an exploratory visit, a business plan, and a community support letter.

  • Farm Stream
    For experienced farmers investing in agricultural operations in Alberta. Minimum investment: $500,000 and a viable business plan.

↑ Back to Top


Quick Comparison of AAIP Streams

StreamJob Required?Express Entry?Open to Applications?Key Eligibility
Alberta Opportunity StreamYesNoYesAlberta work experience
Alberta Express Entry StreamNoYesYesAlberta ties or experience
Accelerated Tech PathwayYesYesYesTech job or offer in Alberta
Rural Renewal StreamYesNoYesCommunity endorsement
Farm StreamNoNoYesFarming experience and investment
Graduate Entrepreneur StreamNoNoYesAlberta graduate with PGWP
Foreign Graduate EntrepreneurNoNoYesBusiness plan + investment
Rural Entrepreneur StreamNoNoYesCommunity support letter + Rural business plan + visit

How to Apply to the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program

  • Choose the Right Stream
    Determine which stream fits your profile—worker or entrepreneur.

  • Confirm Eligibility
    Review the specific requirements for your chosen stream.

  • Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
    Most entrepreneur and Express Entry streams require an EOI submission through the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program online portal.

  • Receive an Invitation to Apply
    Alberta will invite selected candidates based on EOI ranking, labor needs, or community support.

  • Apply for Nomination
    Submit a full application and supporting documents (e.g., job offer, business plan, financials).

  • Receive Your Nomination
    If approved, you’ll receive a nomination that boosts your federal Express Entry profile by 600 CRS points (if applicable).

  • Apply for Permanent Residency
    Submit your application for PR through IRCC.

Processing Time:
4–12 months for nomination; additional time for IRCC PR processing

Fees:
$1,500 for worker streams, $3,500 for entrepreneur and farm streams

↑ Back to Top


Program Administration

The AAIP is managed by both the Alberta and federal governments. Nominees who receive an Alberta nomination can apply for permanent residency for themselves and their immediate family through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), which has the final say on all PR applications.


Why Immigrate to Alberta?

  • Growing Job Market: Opportunities in healthcare, tech, construction, and natural resources.

  • Affordable Living: Lower cost of living compared to many other provinces.

  • Quality of Life: Clean air, stunning national parks, and safe communities.

  • Welcoming Communities: Supportive settlement programs and diverse populations.

Whether you’re looking for a fast-paced urban lifestyle or peaceful rural living, Alberta offers the perfect environment to build your future.

↑ Back to Top


Resources


Need help navigating your immigration options for Alberta?
📞 Contact us at Ghasedak Immigration Services or fill out our consultation form today.