The Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) will launch a new Expression of Interest (EOI) system to streamline its selection process. This change is designed to improve efficiency and better match Alberta’s immigration needs with the local job market.
Under the new EOI system, candidates will indicate their interest in moving to Alberta through a points-based system. Once an EOI is submitted, candidates will be placed in a selection pool akin to the Express Entry pool.
The AAIP will periodically review this pool, selecting and inviting candidates with the highest scores and those who align with Alberta’s labour market demands to apply for immigration.
Key Features of the New EOI System
- Ongoing Intake: The new EOI system introduces a continuous submission process, allowing candidates to apply at any time rather than adhering to fixed application periods and quotas.
- Ranking and Selection: Applicants will be evaluated and ranked based on criteria such as skills, work experience, and their potential to address the province’s economic needs. Those with higher rankings are more likely to be invited to apply.
- Labor Market Alignment: The selection process will be closely aligned with Alberta’s labor market demands, ensuring the province attracts individuals who can make a substantial impact on its economy.
Transition to the New System
Starting with the new EOI system, there will be no more set application deadlines for the rest of 2024. This will help make the switch to the new system easier, allowing people to apply and have their EOIs processed at any time.
Current Application Numbers and Processing Times
| Stream | Unprocessed Applications | Currently Assessing Applications Received On, or Before |
| Alberta Opportunity Stream | 3,300 | December 7, 2023 |
| Alberta Express Entry Stream | 936 | June 25, 2024 (Dedicated Healthcare Pathway) March 5, 2024 (All other pathways/initiatives) |
| Rural Renewal Stream | 1,995 | January 24, 2024 |
| Tourism and Hospitality Stream | 119 | July 9, 2024 |
| Totals | 6,363 |
Impact on Prospective Immigrants
The new EOI system aims to be more flexible and responsive, which could shorten waiting times for candidates and better meet Alberta’s labor market needs.
Here’s what to expect:
- Improved Efficiency: With continuous intake, the program can handle applications more smoothly, leading to quicker processing times.
- Focused Selection: Candidates with skills and experience in areas of high demand are more likely to be chosen, matching Alberta’s economic needs.
- Greater Transparency and Fairness: The points-based system offers a clear and fair process, ranking and selecting candidates based on their qualifications.
Preparing for the New System
If you’re planning to move to Alberta, here’s how to get ready for the new EOI system:
- Understand the Points System: Learn about the factors that will affect your ranking, such as your work experience, education, language skills, and adaptability.
- Boost Your Profile: Increase your chances by improving your qualifications, gaining more work experience, or enhancing your language abilities.
- Stay Updated: Regularly check for the latest updates from the AAIP to stay informed about changes in Alberta’s labor market and how they might influence your application.
The introduction of the new EOI system on September 30, 2024, represents a major update for Alberta’s immigration program.
With continuous intake and a focus on selecting candidates based on labor market needs, the AAIP aims to bring in skilled individuals who can support the province’s economic development.
Future immigrants should actively prepare for the new system by familiarizing themselves with its requirements and improving their profiles to boost their chances of receiving an invitation to apply.
