The Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) has announced its latest nomination statistics for 2024, providing a detailed breakdown of the nominations issued across various streams.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) sets nomination limits for all provincial nominee programs, and for 2024, the AAIP has been allocated a total of 9,750 nominations.
Overview of 2024 AAIP Nominations
The AAIP aims to attract skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and their families to settle in Alberta, contributing to the province’s economic growth and diversity. In 2024 so far, the AAIP issued 4,337 nominations out of the total 9,750 allocated, as summarized below:
1. Alberta Opportunity Stream
The Alberta Opportunity Stream received the highest number of nominations in 2024. With 2,245 nominations issued out of an estimated total of 5,393, this stream remains a significant pathway for individuals already working in Alberta. The stream is designed to provide a pathway to permanent residence for skilled workers who are already in the province and have a job offer from an Alberta employer.
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2. Express Entry Stream
The Express Entry Stream, which aligns with the federal Express Entry system, saw 983 nominations issued from a total of 1,775 allocated nominations. This stream allows Alberta to nominate candidates who have strong ties to the province or who can help meet its labour market needs, enhancing the chances of those candidates to receive an invitation to apply for permanent residence from the federal government.
a) Dedicated Healthcare Pathways
In response to the growing need for healthcare professionals, the Dedicated Healthcare Pathways received 228 nominations out of an allocated 320. This pathway is specifically designed to address the shortages in the healthcare sector, ensuring that Alberta attracts and retains skilled healthcare workers.
b) Accelerated Tech Pathway
The Accelerated Tech Pathway, aimed at attracting tech talent to Alberta’s growing technology sector, had 536 nominations issued out of 1,047 allocated. This pathway is part of Alberta’s strategy to bolster its technology industry by bringing in highly skilled tech professionals.
c) Priority Sector Draws and Other Initiatives
This category, which includes various priority sector draws and other initiatives, received 116 nominations from an allocated 231. These draws target specific occupations or sectors that are critical to Alberta’s economic needs.
d) Family Connection and Occupation in Demand
The Family Connection and Occupation in Demand stream, which facilitates the immigration of individuals with family ties in Alberta or those in high-demand occupations, issued 103 nominations out of the 177 available.
3. Rural Renewal Stream
The Rural Renewal Stream, which aims to address labour shortages in rural communities, saw 971 nominations issued from a total of 1,900 allocated. This stream supports the growth and sustainability of smaller communities across Alberta by attracting immigrants willing to live and work in these areas.
4. Tourism and Hospitality Stream
The Tourism and Hospitality Stream, designed to support Alberta’s important tourism sector, had 135 nominations issued out of 660 allocated. This stream helps ensure that the tourism and hospitality industries, which are vital to Alberta’s economy, have the necessary workforce to thrive.
5. Entrepreneur Streams
The Entrepreneur Streams, encompassing the Foreign Graduate, Graduate, Rural, and Farm Streams, received the fewest nominations with only 3 issued out of a possible 22. These streams are intended to attract entrepreneurial talent to invest in and grow businesses within the province.
Implications and Future Outlook
The distribution of nominations reflects Alberta’s strategic focus on addressing labour market needs, supporting economic growth, and promoting regional development. The significant number of nominations for the Alberta Opportunity Stream and the Rural Renewal Stream indicates a strong emphasis on filling labour gaps both in urban centers and rural communities. The notable allocation for the Accelerated Tech Pathway highlights Alberta’s commitment to becoming a hub for technology and innovation.
Only 4,337 nominations were issued out of the 9,750 allocated for 2024, leaving substantial room for further nominations throughout the year. The AAIP’s flexibility allows it to adapt and respond to emerging economic needs, ensuring that Alberta remains an attractive destination for immigrants.
As Alberta continues to refine its immigration strategies, the province’s ability to attract and retain diverse talent will be crucial in maintaining its economic vitality and addressing demographic challenges. The AAIP’s targeted approach aims to build a robust, diverse, and skilled workforce that can drive Alberta’s growth in the coming years.
