🇨🇦 AAIP 2025: Alberta Immigration Program Now Open with New Fees, Language Tests & Job Opportunities
If you’re an international skilled worker aiming to move to Canada in 2025, Alberta could be your best opportunity. With strong economic growth, diverse industries, and an excellent standard of living, the province continues to attract talent from around the world. The Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) has been upgraded this year, making it even more accessible.
Below is everything you need to know about applying, the streams available, recent updates, and the types of jobs in high demand.
What Is the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP)?
The AAIP is Alberta’s Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). It allows the provincial government to nominate qualified foreign workers, entrepreneurs, and graduates for permanent residence in Canada. The goal is to fill labor shortages in both urban and rural parts of Alberta and support the province’s long-term development.
Learn more here: https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-advantage-immigration-program
Open Worker Streams Under AAIP (2025)
As of May 2025, the following four worker streams are open to applicants:
| Stream | Who Can Apply | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Alberta Opportunity Stream | Temporary foreign workers already working in Alberta with a valid job offer | Open |
| Rural Renewal Stream | Skilled workers with job offers from designated rural Alberta communities | Open |
| Tourism & Hospitality Stream | Temporary workers employed in Alberta’s hospitality or tourism sectors | Open |
| Alberta Express Entry Stream | Express Entry candidates who meet Alberta’s selection criteria | Open |
These streams offer a pathway to permanent residence through nomination by the province. If nominated, applicants can proceed to apply for permanent residency via IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada).
Key Updates to AAIP (Effective April 1, 2025)
1. PTE Core Now Accepted as Proof of English
The Pearson Test of English (PTE) Core has been added to the list of accepted English proficiency exams for all AAIP streams. Other approved tests include IELTS and CELPIP.
Why this matters:
- Faster results (typically within 48 hours)
- 100% computer-based testing
- Global availability
This change gives applicants more flexibility in meeting the language requirement.
2. Increased Application Fees
Application fees for worker streams have increased from CAD $840 to CAD $1,500. The new fee applies to the following streams:
- Alberta Opportunity Stream
- Rural Renewal Stream
- Alberta Express Entry Stream
- Tourism & Hospitality Stream
This fee is non-refundable and must be paid within 24 hours after submitting your full application.
Source: https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-advantage-immigration-program
High-Demand Occupations in Alberta (2025)
Alberta has shortages in several key sectors. Here are some of the top in-demand occupations along with average annual salaries:
| Occupation | NOC Code | Sector | Average Salary (CAD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nurses | 31301 | Healthcare | $80,000 – $100,000 |
| Licensed Practical Nurses | 32101 | Healthcare | $55,000 – $75,000 |
| Software Developers | 21232 | IT | $75,000 – $115,000 |
| Information Systems Analysts | 21222 | IT | $72,552 |
| Electricians | 72200 | Trades | $65,000 – $90,000 |
| Heavy-Duty Mechanics | 72401 | Trades | $78,000 |
| Truck Drivers | 73300 | Transport | $54,600 |
| Accountants | 11100 | Finance | $80,964 |
| Early Childhood Educators | 42202 | Education | $38,025 |
These roles are excellent options for AAIP nomination under most streams, especially if you’re already working or have a valid job offer in Alberta.
AAIP 2025 Eligibility Criteria
To qualify under one of the AAIP worker streams, applicants generally need:
- A valid, full-time job offer from an approved Alberta employer
- At least one year of relevant work experience within the last three years
- Language proficiency: CLB 4–6 (based on IELTS, CELPIP, or PTE Core)
- Educational credential assessment (ECA) showing Canadian equivalency to high school or higher
- Proof of settlement funds (not required if already working in Alberta)
- A clear intention to settle in Alberta long term
Entrepreneur streams have different criteria involving investment amounts and business experience.
2025 Nomination Stats & Quotas (as of May)
Here’s a breakdown of nomination statistics released for this year:
| Stream | Nominations Issued | Remaining Quota |
|---|---|---|
| Alberta Opportunity Stream | 1,127 | 1,465 |
| Rural Renewal Stream | 349 | 601 |
| Tourism & Hospitality Stream | 85 | 160 |
| Alberta Express Entry (Healthcare) | 142 | 358 |
These numbers are regularly updated, so it’s important to apply early.
How to Apply for the AAIP in 2025
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) on the official AAIP portal:
https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-advantage-immigration-program - If your EOI scores well, you’ll receive an invitation to apply.
- Complete your application and pay the CAD $1,500 fee within 24 hours.
- Once approved, you’ll receive a nomination certificate, significantly improving your chance for permanent residency via Express Entry.
Note: There is no fee to submit an EOI.
Conclusion
The Alberta Advantage Immigration Program remains one of Canada’s most dynamic and accessible provincial nominee programs in 2025. With four active streams, new language test options, and a clear demand for skilled workers, Alberta offers a promising future for those ready to take the next step in their career and life.
For updated information and detailed guides, visit:
https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-advantage-immigration-program
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