The Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP), formerly known as the Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP), is Alberta’s official Provincial Nominee Program. Alberta is located in western Canada and is home to major cities like Calgary and Edmonton. It is the most populated of Canada’s three Prairie provinces and is known for its strong economy, abundant natural resources, and world‑famous national parks such as Banff and Jasper.
Through AAIP, Alberta nominates skilled workers, entrepreneurs, graduates, and farmers who can contribute to the province’s economic growth. Successful applicants receive an Alberta Provincial Nomination Certificate, which significantly improves their chances of obtaining Canadian permanent residence.
Alberta Advantage Immigration Program Pathways Overview
Alberta currently offers eight immigration streams, divided into worker streams and business/entrepreneur streams.
Worker Immigration Streams
1. Alberta Opportunity Stream (AOS)
This stream is designed for foreign nationals already working in Alberta in eligible occupations.
Application Fee: CAD $500
Minimum Requirements:
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Valid work permit
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Employment in an eligible Alberta occupation
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Minimum CLB 4 or 5 (depending on occupation)
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At least a high school diploma
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12 months of work experience in Alberta (last 18 months) or 24 months in Canada (last 30 months)
Application Process: Applicants submit an online application through the AAIP portal along with required documents and fees.
2. Alberta Express Entry Stream
This stream allows Alberta to nominate candidates already in the federal Express Entry pool.
Application Fee: CAD $500
Key Benefits:
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Successful nominees receive 600 additional CRS points
Minimum Requirements:
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Active Express Entry profile
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CRS score of at least 300
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Intent to reside permanently in Alberta
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Occupation supporting Alberta’s economic development
Process: Eligible candidates receive a Notification of Interest (NOI) from Alberta and must respond within the given timeframe.
3. Alberta Accelerated Tech Pathway
A fast‑track option under the Alberta Express Entry Stream for tech professionals.
Application Fee: CAD $500
Eligibility Criteria:
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Express Entry profile
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CRS score of 300 or higher
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Job offer or current employment in an eligible Alberta tech occupation
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Intention to settle permanently in Alberta
4. Rural Renewal Stream
This stream targets skilled workers with job offers in rural Alberta communities.
Application Fee: CAD $500
Minimum Requirements:
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Full‑time job offer from an Alberta employer in a designated rural community
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At least 12 months of relevant work experience (last 18 months)
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Language proficiency requirements met
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High school diploma equivalent to Canadian standards
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Proof of settlement funds
Note: Community support is mandatory.
Business & Entrepreneur Streams
5. Farm Stream
For individuals looking to establish or purchase a farming business in Alberta.
Application Fee: CAD $500
Minimum Requirements:
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Proven farm management experience
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Minimum investment of CAD $500,000
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Comprehensive business plan
6. Graduate Entrepreneur Stream
For international graduates of approved Alberta post‑secondary institutions who wish to start or operate a business.
Application Fee: CAD $3,500
Minimum Requirements:
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Full‑time Alberta education (minimum 2 years)
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Valid Post‑Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
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CLB 7 language proficiency
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Minimum 34% business ownership
7. Foreign Graduate Entrepreneur Stream
For graduates from outside Canada planning to establish a business in Alberta.
Application Fee: CAD $3,500
Designated Agencies:
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Empowered Startups
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Platform Calgary
Key Requirements:
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Minimum 6 months business ownership or management experience
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Valid ECA for foreign education
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CLB 5 language proficiency
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Investment of CAD $100,000 (urban) or CAD $50,000 (rural)
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Letter of recommendation from approved agency
8. Rural Entrepreneur Stream
For entrepreneurs seeking to establish or purchase a business in rural Alberta.
Application Fee: CAD $3,500
Minimum Requirements:
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3 years of business ownership experience or 4 years as a senior manager
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Minimum net worth of CAD $300,000
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Minimum investment of CAD $200,000
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CLB/NCLC level 4
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Community support letter
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is AAIP?
AAIP is Alberta’s Provincial Nominee Program for skilled workers and entrepreneurs.
2. How many streams does AAIP offer?
AAIP offers eight immigration streams.
3. Can I apply to more than one stream?
No, applicants may apply to only one stream at a time.
4. Does Express Entry nomination guarantee PR?
It significantly increases your chances by adding 600 CRS points.
5. Where can I check processing times?
Processing times vary and are published on the official AAIP website.
Final Thoughts
The Alberta Advantage Immigration Program offers diverse and flexible pathways for skilled workers, entrepreneurs, graduates, and farmers. With strong economic opportunities, high quality of life, and welcoming communities, Alberta remains one of the most attractive destinations for newcomers to Canada.
Choosing the right AAIP stream based on your background and goals is key to a successful application.
