With the launch of a new Expression of Interest (EOI) system for its worker streams under the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP), the province has significantly changed the way it oversees immigration routes. The government introduced the Worker Expression of Interest (EOI) System as part of the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) on September 30, 2024.
Now you can earn a maximum of 100 points.
This important change helps Alberta better target skilled workers to fulfil its labor market needs by streamlining the application process, increasing transparency, and improving efficiency.
The new system improves chances for applicants who want to live and work in Alberta by applying to both the Alberta Opportunity Stream and the Alberta Express Entry Stream.
What is the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP)?
The Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) is a provincial immigration program that allows Alberta to nominate individuals for Canadian permanent residency based on their ability to fill labor shortages and contribute to the local economy. The AAIP is part of the broader Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) framework, which enables provinces to address their unique economic and workforce challenges through targeted immigration.
The selection procedure used by the AAIP used to be less regulated and handled on a first-come, first-served basis, which occasionally resulted in protracted processing times and confusion for applicants. By prioritising candidates with the best qualifications via a point-based ranking system, the new Expression of Interest (EOI) method aims to address these issues.
Overview of the New EOI System
The newly implemented EOI system allows potential immigrants to express their interest in immigrating to Alberta by submitting an online profile. Candidates who wish to apply to one of the AAIP worker streams must submit a Worker Expression of Interest (EOI) beginning on September 30.
Candidates must accomplish this by going to the AAIP portal and filling out an online form with personal data. Those who submit a Worker EOI, according to the province, will be added to a pool for consideration in the Worker Stream. Applying is free of charge. The Worker EOI points grid, which functions similarly to the federal Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), will be used to rank candidates.
. Once submitted, these profiles are ranked based on specific criteria such as:
- Work experience: Having relevant work experience in high-demand occupations in Alberta.
- Education: Higher levels of education generally contribute to higher scores.
- Language proficiency: Strong command of either English or French.
- Connection to Alberta: Factors such as having a job offer, prior work experience in Alberta, or having family already residing in the province.
Once applicants submit their EOI profiles, they are placed in a pool where they receive a score based on a points-based ranking system. Only the highest-ranking candidates will receive invitations to apply for provincial nomination. This makes the system highly competitive, ensuring that only the most qualified individuals are selected.
It is anticipated that the initial selections from the EOI pool will occur in the middle to end of October, providing candidates ample opportunity to thoroughly examine and polish their applications.
NOTE: “If a candidate already has an existing Worker EOI, Entrepreneur EOI, or an ongoing Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) application (whether in draft or active status), they are not allowed to create a new Worker EOI. To submit a new Worker EOI, individuals must first withdraw any existing applications or EOIs.”
Benefits of the New EOI System
The new EOI system offers several advantages, both for applicants and Alberta:
1. Improved Transparency and Fairness
One of the major benefits of the EOI system is the transparency it brings to the immigration process. By using a points-based system, applicants can have a clear understanding of how they are ranked and what factors influence their chances of receiving an invitation. This makes the process fairer and more predictable for applicants.
2. No application Fees
The fact that there is no cost associated with filing an Expression of Interest is among the new Worker EOI system’s greatest benefits. This removes the burden of upfront financial commitments, making the program more accessible to a larger pool of applicants.
3. Periodic Draws
Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) will conduct regular draws to select applicants based on their scores and the current labor needs of the province. If chosen, you will receive an invitation by email, which will allow you to proceed with the formal application process.
The number of invitations issued in each draw will vary depending on Alberta’s labor market demands and the volume of applications received. While specific numbers can’t be predicted, the system ensures that candidates aligned with Alberta’s economic goals are given priority.
Alberta’s new Expression of Interest (EOI) system is a significant advancement for skilled workers aiming to settle in the province. By implementing a points-based ranking system, Alberta can streamline its immigration process and focus on selecting candidates who are most qualified to contribute to its economy and workforce needs.
To know if you meet the mimic score requirements you can visit https://www.alberta.ca/system/files/im-worker-stream-expression-of-interest-points-grid.pdf
For applicants, this system brings increased transparency, making the selection criteria clearer, and enhances efficiency, providing more chances for those who meet the required qualifications. As Alberta continues to grow and adapt, the EOI system will play an essential role in attracting the skilled talent necessary for its long-term economic success.
