The Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) Farm Stream is designed for experienced farmers who want to buy or start a farm in Alberta. To qualify, applicants must have farm management experience, sufficient financial resources, and a business plan that aligns with Alberta’s agricultural needs.
This guide explains the eligibility criteria, application process, and what to do after receiving a nomination for permanent residence.
On This Page, You Will Find:
- Eligibility Criteria – Learn about the farm management skills, financial requirements, and investment plans needed to qualify.
- How to Apply – A step-by-step guide on completing forms, paying fees, and submitting your application.
- After You Are Nominated – Understand what to do once nominated, including applying for permanent residence and tracking your application.
- Frequently Asked Questions – Answers to common queries about eligibility, processing times, and next steps.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Farm Stream, applicants must meet the following requirements at the time of application and assessment.
Farm management skills
Applicants must prove they have experience managing a farm. Evidence may include financial records of an existing farm business, documentation of education, training or work experience in farm management, a proposed business plan for the farm in Alberta, and proof that a Canadian financial institution is willing to finance the farming business.
Sufficient financial resources
Applicants must be able to invest a minimum of CAD $500,000 in a primary production farming business in Alberta. Documents must show a minimum net worth of CAD $500,000 or proof of access to equivalent funds. Some applicants may be required to invest more than the minimum amount.
Primary production investment
Applicants must submit a business plan detailing their investment plans, which will be assessed by Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation. Priority is given to applications that demonstrate strong growth potential and align with Alberta’s agri-food industry targets.
Who is not eligible?
Applicants cannot apply if they already hold an active nomination under another AAIP stream, have previously been barred from reapplying, have a removal order from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), are living or working in Canada without valid temporary status, are live-in caregivers, temporary foreign workers outside Alberta, or international students, including those on co-op placements.
How to Apply
Step 1: Review the terms and conditions
Applicants should carefully read the AAIP terms and conditions before applying, as the availability of the Farm Stream can change based on labour market needs.
Step 2: Check eligibility
Before submitting an application, applicants should ensure they meet the eligibility criteria. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee nomination or permanent residence.
Step 3: Complete the required forms
Applicants must submit the following AAIP and IRCC forms:
AAIP Farm Stream Form
- Farm Stream Application
IRCC Immigration Forms
- IMM 0008 – Generic Application Form
- IMM 0008 Schedule 4 – Economic Classes: Provincial Nominees
- IMM 0008 Schedule 4A – Economic Classes: Business Nominees
- IMM 0008DEP – Additional Dependents (if applicable)
- IMM 5669 – Background Declaration
- IMM 5406 – Additional Family Information
- IMM 5476 – Use of a Representative (if applicable)
Step 4: Pay the application fee
The fee for applications submitted after 1 April 2024 is CAD $3,500. For applications submitted before this date, the fee is CAD $500. Fees are non-refundable, even if the application is refused.
Payment method
Applicants must pay online using a debit or credit card and include proof of payment in their application.
Step 5: Submit the application by post
Applicants must send a complete application, including proof of payment, by registered mail or courier to:
Farm Stream
Alberta Advantage Immigration program
Government of Alberta
Suite 940, ATB Place North Tower
10025 Jasper Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta T5J 1S6, Canada
Applications submitted by email or fax will not be accepted.
After You Are Nominated
Apply for permanent residence
Once nominated, applicants must apply to IRCC within six months. The application must include all required forms and fees. IRCC may also require medical, security, and background checks.
Track application status
Applicants will receive an Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR) and file number from IRCC. Application status can be tracked online.
Update personal information
Any changes to contact details, family status or work permit status must be reported to both AAIP and IRCC.
Request a nomination extension
If the nomination expires before applying for permanent residence, applicants can request an extension. There is a CAD $150 fee for extension requests submitted after 1 April 2024. Only one extension may be granted.
Prepare for settlement in Alberta
Applicants should begin preparations for their move to Alberta, ensuring they have the resources to establish their farm business successfully.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Alberta Advantage Immigration program Farm Stream?
The Farm Stream allows experienced farmers to apply for permanent residence in Alberta if they plan to buy or start a farm. Applicants must invest at least CAD $500,000 and submit a business plan that aligns with Alberta’s agricultural industry needs.
What types of farms qualify for the program?
The program is limited to primary production farming businesses, including crop production, livestock farming and agri-food processing. Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation will review the business plan to ensure it meets the province’s agricultural needs.
How long does it take to get permanent residence through the Farm Stream?
Processing times vary. The AAIP nomination process can take several months, while IRCC processing for permanent residence can take 12 to 24 months. Submitting a complete application as early as possible can speed up the process.
Can I apply while living outside Canada?
Yes, applicants do not need to be in Canada to apply. However, they must demonstrate they have farm management experience and sufficient financial resources to invest in farming in Alberta.
What happens if my application is refused?
If an application is refused, applicants will receive an email explaining the reasons for rejection. If they believe an error was made in assessing their application, they may submit a reconsideration request. There is a CAD $250 fee for reconsideration requests submitted after 1 April 2024. If an IRCC permanent residence application is refused, applicants may need to reapply or appeal through IRCC channels.
Experienced Farmers, Apply Today!
The Alberta Advantage Immigration program Farm Stream provides a pathway for experienced farmers to obtain permanent residence in Alberta. By meeting the eligibility requirements, submitting a strong business plan, and following the application process carefully, applicants can successfully establish their agricultural business in Canada.
For those ready to apply, now is the time to begin the journey towards farming in Alberta.