Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) as we used to know it…

The Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) has long been one of Canada’s most accessible provincial nominee programs (PNPs). This made Alberta an attractive destination for thousands of prospective immigrants, many of whom sought to take advantage of the province's fast-growing economy, favorable living conditions, and abundant employment opportunities.

AAIP Before the February 2024 Changes

Before February 2024, the AAIP operated on a first-come, first-served basis. If applicants met the program's eligibility requirements, they could submit an application, and Alberta would process it on a rolling basis. This open structure, particularly under the Alberta Opportunity Stream, led to an influx of applications from around the world. With criteria focused more on general employment experience and language skills rather than strict alignment with Alberta's immediate economic needs, the program was viewed as one of the most facilitative PNPs in Canada.

However, there was a downside to this accessibility. The relaxed criteria meant that Alberta was receiving far more applications than it could handle, and not all applicants were well-suited to the specific labour demands of the province. This mismatch between applicant profiles and Alberta’s economic priorities, along with a growing application backlog, led to the realization that changes were necessary.

The Temporary Pause in AAIP Intake on February 15, 2024

On February 15, 2024, the AAIP announced a significant policy change: a temporary pause in accepting applications for the Alberta Opportunity Stream. According to the official announcement from the Alberta government, this pause was implemented to manage the overwhelming backlog of applications and to refocus the program on addressing the province’s most critical labour shortages.

The Alberta government clarified that it would continue processing applications submitted before the pause but would not accept any new or draft applications. This decision was made to allow the program to focus its limited immigration nominations on key sectors such as healthcare, technology, construction, agriculture, tourism, and hospitality.

Key Points from the February 15, 2024 Announcement:
- A temporary pause in Alberta Opportunity Stream applications to manage inventory.
- Continued processing of applications submitted before the pause.
- Refocusing nominations on Alberta’s economic priorities, specifically in healthcare, technology, and other key industries.

Resumption of Applications on June 11 with a New Race-to-File System

After a brief pause, AAIP resumed accepting applications for the Alberta Opportunity Stream on June 11, 2024. However, this time, the program introduced new guidelines designed to manage the flow of applications more effectively. The program began accepting applications on a limited basis, opening the intake on seven specific dates throughout the remainder of 2024: June 11, July 9, August 13, September 10, October 8, November 5, and December 10.

Key Facts from the June 11, 2024 Update:
- Monthly application intake dates were introduced, with limited slots available.
- Application dates: June 11, July 9, August 13, etc.
- The race-to-file system was designed to manage the high demand for immigration to Alberta.
- Alberta received 9,750 provincial nomination certificates from the federal government for 2024, which the program must distribute across various streams.

This system, often referred to as a "race-to-file," required applicants to submit their applications as quickly as possible once the intake opened on the designated dates. The number of applications accepted on each date was capped, meaning that once the target number was reached, the intake would close until the next scheduled date.

Issues Associated with the AAIP Race-to-File System

The race-to-file system, while intended to manage application volumes more efficiently, brought with it several issues that created frustration for applicants and immigration professionals alike. Much like similar systems in other provincial programs across Canada, the race-to-file model triggered a highly competitive atmosphere where applicants had to scramble to submit their applications before the intake cap was reached.

One of the major criticisms of the race-to-file system was the technical challenges it posed. On application intake days, a large number of people would attempt to access the AAIP portal simultaneously. This surge in activity often caused the system to crash or lag, preventing many applicants from successfully submitting their applications within the limited window. Even if candidates had all their documents ready and met the eligibility requirements, the technical issues created an uneven playing field.

Another issue that arose was the perception of an unfair advantage for applicants who had better access to high-speed internet, technical know-how, or immigration consultants who could submit applications on their behalf. Those without these resources faced a much greater challenge in successfully submitting their applications before the intake cap was reached, creating a significant disparity between applicants.

Many applicants expressed frustration at the fact that the program’s limited intake numbers and technical difficulties led to missed opportunities. Those who were otherwise well-qualified to meet Alberta's economic needs often found themselves unable to submit their applications, despite preparing for months. As a result, the race-to-file system led to calls for a more equitable, needs-based process that would prioritize applicants based on merit rather than how quickly they could file an application.

You can read more about the issues with the AAIP and AOS race-to-file system in our blog post from June 13, 2024.

The August 7 Announcement: New Pause in AAIP Intake

On August 7, 2024, just two months after resuming applications, AAIP announced a new pause in intake. This pause affected all streams that had been accepting applications under the race-to-file system. The reason for this pause was to prepare for the rollout of a completely new immigration system—an Expression of Interest (EOI) model—which would replace the race-to-file system beginning on September 30, 2024.

This marked a significant turning point for the AAIP, as it transitioned away from a highly competitive, first-come-first-served system to a more structured, needs-based model that would allow the province to better manage immigration according to Alberta’s economic priorities.

Key Points from the August 7, 2024 Announcement:
- Complete pause in AAIP intake for the remainder of 2024.
- The pause allowed the province to focus on the implementation of the new EOI system.
- AAIP would no longer proceed with the remaining race-to-file dates in 2024.

Introduction to the New Expression of Interest (EOI) System

The introduction of the Expression of Interest (EOI) system is one of the most significant changes to the AAIP in recent years. Set to launch on September 30, 2024, the EOI system is designed to address the shortcomings of the previous race-to-file model by ranking candidates based on a points-based system. This allows Alberta to select candidates who align with its labour market needs, creating a more equitable and effective immigration process.

What is the EOI System?

The EOI system, starting September 30, 2024, represents a fundamental shift in how Alberta will manage its immigration applications. Rather than rushing to submit applications as quickly as possible, prospective applicants will submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through an online form. This form will collect important information about the applicant’s age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and other factors.

Once submitted, each EOI will be assigned a score based on a points grid. Applicants will then be ranked within a pool of candidates, and Alberta will select those who are best aligned with the province’s labour market needs, economic priorities, and available nomination certificates.

Unlike the race-to-file system, applicants do not need to submit their EOIs immediately after the system opens, as the AAIP will conduct regular draws from the pool over time.

Key Features of the EOI System:
- No fee required to submit a Worker EOI.
- Applicants will self-declare information via an online form.
- EOIs will be scored and ranked using a points grid.
- Ongoing draws will be conducted based on scores, labour market needs, and available nominations.

How to apply for PR in Alberta with the AAIP Expression of Interest System?

The Expression of Interest (EOI) system introduces a major shift in the application process for the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP). Instead of the competitive race-to-file system, which created stress for applicants, the new EOI system prioritizes fairness and alignment with Alberta's labour market needs. Here’s a detailed look at how the EOI system functions and what applicants can expect.

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Once the EOI system launches on September 30, 2024, candidates interested in one of the AAIP’s worker streams will submit their EOI online via the AAIP portal. This process will work the following way:

Step 1. Self-Declaration Form:

Applicants will fill out a Worker Expression of Interest form where they provide information about their background, work experience, education, language skills, and other relevant factors. This will be a self-declared form, meaning applicants are responsible for ensuring the accuracy and honesty of the information provided. There is no fee to submit an EOI, which removes financial barriers that could have otherwise discouraged potential applicants.

Step 2. EOI Scoring:

Once an EOI is submitted, it will be scored using the Worker Expression of Interest Points Grid, which takes into account several factors such as age, education, work experience, and language skills. Each factor carries a specific weight, with applicants accumulating points based on how well they meet the criteria.

Step 3. Rankings:

All EOIs are placed into a pool where they are ranked based on the scores assigned. Applicants with higher scores will have a better chance of being selected in subsequent draws.

Step 4. Regular Draws:

The AAIP will conduct regular draws from the pool, inviting top-ranked candidates to apply for one of Alberta’s worker streams. The number of invitations will depend on Alberta’s provincial nomination allocation and the province’s immediate labour market needs.

Step 5. Invitation to Apply:

Candidates who are selected from the pool will receive an official Invitation to Apply (ITA) via email, after which they can submit a full application for one of the worker streams under the AAIP.

The major advantage of the EOI system is that it eliminates the rush to submit applications on a specific date, giving candidates more time to prepare and submit a thorough EOI. Moreover, the system allows Alberta to be more selective, choosing applicants who align most closely with the province’s current economic priorities.

Key Notes for Applicants:
- Although the system will open on September 30, 2024, there is no immediate need to rush, as draws will not take place until mid or late October.
- Candidates should ensure that all information in the EOI is accurate, as false information could lead to disqualification or rejection.
- Only one EOI is allowed per candidate, meaning that applicants cannot submit multiple EOIs to increase their chances of selection.

How Points are Awarded in the EOI for Alberta PNP?

The scoring system for the Expression of Interest (EOI) is based on a points grid that evaluates various factors about an applicant’s profile. Understanding how these points are awarded is crucial for maximizing one’s chances of being invited to apply under the AAIP.

The Worker Expression of Interest Points Grid breaks down scoring into several categories, each reflecting Alberta’s economic priorities. Below is a summary of the main factors that affect EOI scores:

1. Age

The age group with the highest scores is 21-34 years old, as Alberta is looking for young, dynamic workers who are more likely to contribute to the economy over the long term.
Points range from a maximum of 12 for candidates aged 21-34, to 0 points for those aged 51 or older.

2. Education

Candidates with Canadian education, especially those who studied in Alberta, receive extra points.
Those with advanced degrees (Master’s or Ph.D.) earn the highest scores, while those with lower qualifications still receive some points.
Alberta-trained applicants get an additional 10 points, which underscores the province’s priority for candidates who have an educational background from within Alberta.

3. Work Experience

Points are awarded for work experience both inside and outside of Alberta.
However, applicants who have worked in Alberta receive extra points (up to 10 points for Alberta-based work experience).
Work experience in regulated or high-demand industries can also boost an applicant’s score, making them more attractive to Alberta’s labour market.

4. Language Skills

English and French proficiency are key criteria, with candidates being scored based on their performance in language tests like IELTS or CELPIP.
Points are determined based on the lowest score of all four language
competencies (listening, reading, writing, speaking) on the test taken.
You can get a maximum of 10 points if you score CLB 6 or higher in English OR you can get a maximum of 8 points if you score NCLC 6 or higher in French.
Bilingual candidates receive an additional 3 points, which aligns with the province’s commitment to fostering bilingualism, particularly in sectors that serve both English and French-speaking populations.

5. Family Ties in Alberta

Candidates with family members already residing in Alberta can earn additional points (up to 10 points).
This factor recognizes the importance of community and support systems for new immigrants, ensuring a smoother integration into Alberta society.

6. Job Offers in Alberta

Having a job offer in Alberta significantly boosts an applicant’s chances, particularly if the job is in a rural community.
Candidates with offers from rural areas outside of Calgary and Edmonton receive an additional 6 points, and if the job offer is in a community on the Rural Renewal Stream list, an extra 5 points is awarded.
Alberta aims to encourage immigration into rural areas to promote balanced growth across the province.

7. Occupation and Licensing

Applicants working in regulated occupations (e.g., healthcare, engineering, law) and holding the necessary licenses to work in Alberta receive additional points.
This ensures that candidates are prepared to enter Alberta’s workforce without delay, particularly in sectors with stringent regulatory requirements.

Understanding the scoring grid is crucial for applicants, as it enables them to identify areas where they might improve their profiles, such as gaining more work experience in Alberta, enhancing their language proficiency, or obtaining a job offer in a rural area.

Alberta’s Priorities Based on the Analysis of the Alberta PNP and the Expression of Interest System.

The introduction of the EOI system reflects Alberta’s evolving economic priorities, and a closer look at how points are awarded reveals the key focus areas for the province moving forward. By analyzing the point distribution, several patterns emerge that can provide valuable insights into what Alberta is looking for in its prospective immigrants.

Priority for Alberta-Trained and Canadian-Trained Applicants

One of the clearest priorities in the new system is Alberta’s focus on retaining individuals who have studied in the province or elsewhere in Canada. Applicants who completed their education in Alberta receive an extra 10 points, while those who studied elsewhere in Canada also benefit. This indicates that Alberta is keen on keeping talent that is already familiar with the country’s education and work environment.

The EOI system is clearly designed to encourage students who come to Alberta for post-secondary education to remain in the province and contribute to its workforce, particularly in industries like technology, healthcare, and engineering.

Importance of Alberta Work Experience

Alberta is giving significant weight to candidates with Alberta-based work experience, offering up to 10 additional points for applicants who have worked in the province. This suggests that Alberta wants to prioritize individuals who are already integrated into its labour market, particularly in high-demand sectors like healthcare, construction, and technology.

Work experience outside of Alberta is still considered, but the extra points for Alberta experience highlight the province’s goal of keeping talent that has already established roots in its economy.

Focusing on Youth and Bilingual Candidates

Age and language skills also play a significant role in the EOI scoring system. Alberta has placed a strong emphasis on younger candidates, particularly those between the ages of 21-34, offering the highest points to this demographic. The rationale behind this is to attract workers who can contribute to the province’s economy for many years to come.

Similarly, candidates who are bilingual in English and French receive additional points. This aligns with Alberta’s need for bilingual workers, particularly in sectors such as customer service, education, and healthcare, where communication in both languages is a valuable asset.

Prioritization of Rural Communities

Alberta is not just focused on large cities like Calgary and Edmonton; the new EOI system strongly encourages candidates to seek opportunities in rural areas. Applicants with job offers from rural communities are awarded an extra 6 points. Additionally, those who secure employment in areas listed under the Rural Renewal Stream (RRS) receive an extra 5 points on top of that, making rural job offers one of the most advantageous factors in the points system.

This prioritization aligns with Alberta’s need to bolster economic activity outside of its major cities, ensuring that growth is distributed across the province. Rural areas are often in need of skilled workers in healthcare, agriculture, education, and trades, which is why the AAIP provides additional incentives for candidates willing to contribute to these communities.

By offering higher points for rural job offers, Alberta is clearly trying to solve the problem of uneven economic development and alleviate workforce shortages in less populated areas. For applicants, securing a job in a rural community significantly boosts their chances of being invited to apply for permanent residency.

Focusing on Regulated Occupations

Another key area of focus for Alberta is ensuring that the province fills positions in regulated occupations. These are jobs that require specific licenses or certifications, such as healthcare professionals, engineers, or electricians. Candidates who hold the necessary certifications to work in these fields are given additional points, highlighting Alberta’s need for qualified professionals in these areas.

This emphasis on regulated occupations reflects Alberta’s efforts to address labour shortages in key sectors where licensed professionals are in high demand. For applicants in such professions, holding a valid license to practice in Alberta gives them a significant edge in the EOI points system. This means that healthcare workers, teachers, lawyers, and other regulated professionals who have the appropriate certifications are prioritized for selection.

How to Prepare for the Rollout of the EOI System for the Alberta PNP (AAIP) and Alberta AOS?

With the EOI system set to launch on September 30, 2024, applicants need to start preparing now to ensure they are in the best possible position to receive an invitation to apply. Below are key steps prospective immigrants can take to maximize their chances of success in the new system.

Confirm Eligibility for AAIP Worker Streams

The first step for any applicant is to confirm their eligibility for one or more of the AAIP worker streams. The new EOI system applies to various streams, including the Alberta Opportunity Stream, Accelerated Tech Pathway, and Rural Renewal Stream. Each stream has specific eligibility criteria related to factors such as:

Work experience (inside or outside Alberta)
Education
Job offers in Alberta
Language proficiency

It is crucial for applicants to thoroughly review the eligibility requirements for the stream they are interested in. Meeting the minimum requirements is essential to be considered for the EOI pool.

Understand the EOI Points Grid

Once an applicant has confirmed their eligibility, the next step is to review the Worker Expression of Interest Points Grid. This points system is critical in determining whether an applicant will be ranked highly enough in the EOI pool to receive an invitation.

By carefully examining the points grid, applicants can identify areas where they might be able to improve their score. For example:

Language proficiency: If an applicant’s language test scores are borderline, they might consider retaking the test to improve their score.
Work experience in Alberta: Applicants with Canadian or Alberta-specific work experience will receive more points, making it advantageous to gain work experience in the province before applying.
Job offers in rural communities: Applicants with job offers from rural Alberta or from the Rural Renewal Stream list receive extra points, so securing such an offer should be a top priority for those looking to boost their score.

Understanding how the points are distributed allows applicants to strategically plan their next steps to maximize their EOI score.

How to Increase the Likelihood of Invitation for Alberta PNP (AAIP)?

Given that the EOI system is points-based and competitive, applicants need to take proactive steps to increase their likelihood of receiving an invitation. Here are several ways to do so:

Language proficiency: As mentioned, applicants can retake language proficiency tests like IELTS or CELPIP to improve their scores. High language proficiency in both English and French can give applicants a competitive edge, especially for bilingual candidates who receive additional points.
Alberta work experience: One of the most effective ways to improve an EOI score is to gain work experience in Alberta. This not only increases the number of points an applicant can earn but also demonstrates alignment with the province’s economic priorities.
Job offers in rural Alberta: As discussed earlier, securing a job offer in a rural area, particularly in a community listed under the Rural Renewal Stream, adds a significant number of points. Applicants should explore employment opportunities outside of major cities like Calgary and Edmonton, as rural job offers can be the deciding factor in receiving an invitation.
Education in Alberta: Those who are already studying in Alberta, or who have completed their education in the province, receive additional points. If possible, applicants might consider completing an educational program in Alberta to strengthen their profiles.
Ensure accuracy in EOI submission: It is essential to make sure that all information submitted in the EOI is accurate. Misrepresentation or errors in the self-declared form could lead to disqualification from the EOI pool or even bans from applying in the future.
Speak to a lawyer to minimize the risks: With extreme competition for nomination from Alberta and shrinking pathways for Permanent Residence in Canada the stakes are too high now. You might want to get a second pair of eyes reviewing your application to minimize the risk of making a fatal mistake in your AAIP application.

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Applicants should also be aware that multiple EOIs are not allowed. Each candidate is only permitted to have one EOI at a time, so it is vital to take the time to carefully fill out the form and ensure that all information is up to date.

So, Let’s Recap…

The changes to the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) is yet another evidence of Alberta’s evolving long-term approach to managing its immigration system. The shift from a race-to-file system to a points-based Expression of Interest (EOI) system is a significant improvement, as it allows the province to align its immigration nominations with its economic priorities.

By prioritizing candidates who are young, educated, experienced in Alberta, and capable of working in key industries or rural areas, the EOI system ensures that Alberta attracts the talent it needs to support its long-term economic growth.

Applicants should begin preparing now by reviewing their eligibility, understanding the points grid, and taking steps to improve their profiles. For those who can secure work in regulated occupations, rural areas, or sectors like healthcare and technology, the new system provides a clearer pathway to provincial nomination.

As Alberta continues to face high demand for immigration, the EOI system is a welcome development that promises to improve the fairness, efficiency, and effectiveness of the AAIP.

FAQs:

1. What is the main difference between the race-to-file system and the EOI system?

The race-to-file system required applicants to submit their applications as quickly as possible on designated dates, while the EOI system ranks applicants based on a points grid, allowing Alberta to select the best candidates according to its labour market needs.

2. When will the EOI system begin?

The EOI system will officially launch on September 30, 2024, and the first draws from the EOI pool will take place in mid or late October 2024.

3. How are points awarded in the EOI system?

Points are awarded based on factors such as age, education, work experience, language skills, family ties in Alberta, and job offers in rural communities. Applicants with Alberta work experience, education, and job offers in rural areas receive extra points.

4. Can I submit multiple EOIs to increase my chances?

No, applicants are only allowed to submit one Worker EOI at a time. If you already have an active EOI or application, you must withdraw it before submitting a new EOI.

5. How can I improve my chances of being selected in the EOI draws?

To increase your chances, you can focus on improving your language proficiency, gaining work experience in Alberta, securing a job offer in a rural area, or ensuring that your EOI submission is accurate and up-to-date.

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