Alberta Introduces New Expression of Interest System for Worker Streams

Starting September 30, Alberta is changing how it manages applications for the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) Worker Streams. The province has introduced a new Expression of Interest (EOI) system for candidates who wish to apply to one of these streams.

What is the Worker Expression of Interest (EOI)?

If you're interested in applying for an AAIP Worker Stream, you now need to submit a Worker Expression of Interest (EOI) through the AAIP portal. This process involves filling out an online form with your personal details. Once submitted, your EOI will be added to the Worker Stream pool, where it will be considered for provincial nomination. The good news? There’s no fee to submit your EOI.

How the EOI Points System Works

Once your EOI is in the pool, you’ll be ranked based on a points grid, similar to the federal Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). The points are based on factors such as:

• Education (extra points if you studied in Alberta)
• Language proficiency
• Work experience (more points for experience gained in Alberta)
• Age
• Family connections in Alberta
  
  

Candidates with higher scores have a better chance of being selected for a provincial nomination. If selected, you'll receive an invitation via email.

Important Information for Applicants

If you already have an existing Worker or Entrepreneur EOI or an active AAIP application, you won’t be able to submit a new Worker EOI. You must withdraw any existing EOIs or applications before submitting a new one.

Although the system is now live, there’s no rush to apply right away. Alberta won’t begin conducting Worker Stream draws until mid to late October.

Changes to Alberta Worker Streams in 2024

Earlier this year, Alberta made significant changes to the way it accepts applications for its Worker Streams. These changes were designed to handle high demand and align with labour market needs. In June, Alberta limited the number of applications accepted into the pool each month. Once the monthly target was met, no further applications were accepted until the next cycle.

This new system helps balance processing times and ensures the province stays within its 2024 allocation of 9,750 Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) nominations from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Affected Worker Streams

The new EOI system applies to the following Worker Streams:

• Alberta Opportunity Stream
• Rural Renewal Stream
• Accelerated Tech Pathway
• Tourism and Hospitality Stream
  
  

These changes aim to give applicants multiple opportunities to apply throughout the year and ensure the program stays accessible.

In fact, the demand for the Alberta Opportunity Stream has been so high this year that the province temporarily paused accepting applications from February to June. This pause allowed the AAIP to manage its existing application inventory and prioritize nominations for sectors with urgent labour shortages, such as healthcare, technology, construction, agriculture, tourism, and hospitality.

Final Thoughts

Alberta’s new EOI system for Worker Streams is designed to make the application process more efficient and better aligned with the province’s labour market needs. If you’re considering applying, be sure to understand the new points-based ranking system and submit your Worker EOI when ready.