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What is the AAIP?
Through the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program, the Government of Alberta nominates people who can fill labour needs and settle in the province. After a nomination, you apply to IRCC for permanent residence. A nomination linked to Express Entry also adds a large number of CRS points.
Main pathways
- Worker streams, such as the Alberta Opportunity Stream, for people already working in Alberta in eligible occupations.
- Alberta Express Entry Stream, for candidates in the federal Express Entry pool who are selected by Alberta.
- Targeted pathways for priority sectors such as health care, and for people working or settling in rural communities.
- Entrepreneur streams for people starting or buying a business in Alberta.
Alberta changes its streams, eligibility criteria, intake caps and selection methods often, and many streams now use an expression of interest system with periodic draws. Always check the current rules on the official AAIP website, or ask us before you invest time in an application.
How the process usually works
- Eligibility check against the current stream criteria: occupation, work experience, language, education and job or residence in Alberta.
- Expression of interest or application to the AAIP, with supporting documents.
- Provincial nomination if you are selected and approved.
- Permanent residence application to IRCC, through Express Entry or a separate application, depending on the stream.
How we help
We identify the stream that fits your situation, keep track of changing criteria and draws, prepare your documents and application, and then handle your permanent residence application to IRCC after nomination. For employers, we explain how the AAIP can help keep valued foreign workers in Alberta.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a job offer for the AAIP?
It depends on the stream. Some worker streams require current employment in Alberta, while the Alberta Express Entry Stream does not always require a job offer. We check the current rules for your situation.
Is a provincial nomination the same as permanent residence?
No. A nomination lets you apply to IRCC for permanent residence. IRCC makes the final decision, including medical, security and admissibility checks.
How long does the AAIP take?
Processing times vary by stream and change often. Alberta publishes current processing information on the AAIP website.
Can I live outside Alberta after nomination?
Provincial nominees are expected to intend to live in the province that nominated them. Your intention to settle in Alberta is part of the assessment.
This page is general information, not legal advice. Immigration rules, fees and processing times change often; always confirm current requirements on the official IRCC or IRB website, and get advice about your own situation before you apply. No consultant can guarantee the outcome of an application.