Last Updated:July 26, 2026
What is the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP)?
Under the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP), the Government of Alberta assesses foreign workers who wish to immigrate and permanently settle in Alberta. When candidates are determined to be individuals who will contribute to the province, the Alberta government issues a provincial nomination to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Once nominated, applicants and their accompanying family members can apply to IRCC for Permanent Residence in Alberta.
Alberta Advantage Immigration Program Streams Overview
Streams for workers
There are four streams for foreign workers who live and work in Alberta, or who plan to live and work in Alberta.
<List of Streams>
- Alberta Opportunity Stream
- Tourism and Hospitality Stream
- Alberta Express Entry Stream
- Dedicated Healthcare Pathway
*A “Non-Express Entry” pathway is also available for candidates who do not meet the Express Entry requirements. - Accelerated Tech Pathway
- Law Enforcement Pathway
- Priority sectors, such as construction, agriculture, aviation
- Rural Renewal Stream
Streams for entrepreneurs
There are four streams for entrepreneurs who plan to live in Alberta and buy or start a business in the province.
<List of Streams>
- Rural Entrepreneur Stream
- Graduate Entrepreneur Stream
- Farm Stream
- Foreign Graduate Entrepreneur Stream
Alberta Advantage Immigration Program Employer and Job Offer Requirements
- The company’s head office and actual business operations must be located in Alberta
- Must offer the applicant a full-time, paid position in their current occupation for a minimum of 12 continuous months
- The work location (company facility) where the applicant will work must be located in Alberta (home offices and virtual offices are not eligible)
- Must have been operating the business in Alberta for at least 2 years prior to application
- Must provide proof that the applicant holds a valid work permit, or if the applicant is not currently working in Alberta, proof of recruitment efforts to hire Canadian citizens or permanent residents
- Must show a minimum gross revenue of $400,000 on the most recent business tax return
- Must employ at least 3 full-time (or equivalent) employees in Alberta
- Independent contractors are not included
- Two part-time employees working a combined total of at least 30 hours per week can be counted as one full-time employee
※If the employer cannot meet the minimum employee count (3 or more) or revenue requirements, AAIP support is still possible, but the number of nominations will be limited.
Alberta Advantage Immigration Program Application Fees
| Category | Application Fee |
|---|---|
| Alberta Opportunity Stream | $1,500 |
| Alberta Express Entry Stream | $1,500 |
| Rural Renewal Stream | $1,500 |
| Graduate Entrepreneur Stream | $3,500 |
| Foreign Graduate Entrepreneur Stream | $3,500 |
| Farm Stream | $3,500 |
| Rural Entrepreneur Stream | $3,500 |
| Worker Expression of Interest (WEOI) submissions | $135 |
Characteristics of Alberta
Alberta is located in western Canada and is known as the “Energy Province of Canada.” It has major cities such as Edmonton and Calgary, and the oil industry is a key part of its economy. The natural environment is characterized by breathtaking landscapes, including Banff National Park and Jasper National Park, which are surrounded by the Rocky Mountains. The climate is dry, with hot summers and cold winters, with temperatures often falling below freezing during the winter months. Outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and mountaineering are popular.
The capital city, Edmonton, plays a significant role as a hub for oil sands supply and is home to attractions like the West Edmonton Mall, one of the largest malls in Canada, and the World Waterpark. In terms of tourism, Banff, Lake Louise, and Jasper are some of the most popular destinations.
The climate varies across the province: the southern part is warm and dry, the western region is influenced by the “chinook” winds from the mountains, resulting in milder temperatures, and the eastern part is affected by the prairie, making it drier with significant temperature fluctuations. Overall, Alberta enjoys many sunny days and is one of the sunniest provinces in Canada.
| Categories | Rating |
|---|---|
| Job availability | ★★★☆☆ |
| Liveability and safety | ★★★★☆ |
| Cost of living | ★★★★☆ |
| Japanese population | ★★★☆☆ |
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