Alberta Advantage Immigration Program's New Tourism and Hospitality Stream

Announcement: Alberta has introduced a new immigration stream tailored specifically for the tourism and hospitality sector, commencing March 1, 2024. Foreign nationals established in Alberta and employed by a tourism or hospitality business can now apply through the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) under the innovative Tourism and Hospitality Stream.

Eligibility Criteria: To qualify for this stream, applicants must meet several criteria:

• Possess a valid work permit at the time of application submission and assessment by AAIP, excluding status maintained during processing or restoration status.
• Hold a LMIA work permit in NOC TEER Categories 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5.
• Demonstrate a language proficiency of CLB 4.
• Have a minimum of 6 months of full-time work experience in their current occupation with an Alberta employer offering a full-time job.
• Hold Canadian secondary education, with Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) verification.
• Employers and eligible industries and occupations can be found on the program's website.

Background on Tourism and Hospitality Stream: Alberta's tourism and hospitality sector serves as a significant driver of economic growth and employment opportunities across the province. The newly introduced Tourism and Hospitality Stream seeks to attract and retain a skilled workforce to bolster Alberta's visitor economy and support its ongoing growth.

In 2022, Alberta witnessed a notable surge in tourism spending, totaling $10.7 billion—an increase of $600 million compared to 2019.

Background on AAIP: The Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) serves as an economic immigration pathway, nominating individuals for permanent residency in Alberta. Nominees are required to possess skills that address job shortages or demonstrate intentions to purchase or establish a business within the province, along with the ability to support their families.

Upon nomination through the program, candidates, along with their spouses or common-law partners and dependent children, may apply for permanent resident status. The subsequent application process for permanent residency is administered by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).