Starting September 30, 2024, the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) will implement a new Expression of Interest (EOI) system to modernize its selection process. This change aims to improve the efficiency of the immigration process and better align it with the province’s labor market needs.
The Expression of Interest (EOI) System
The new EOI system is a points-based method where individuals can express their interest in moving to Alberta. After submitting an EOI, candidates enter a pool, much like the federal Express Entry pool. Periodically, the AAIP will draw the highest-ranked candidates from this pool who meet specific labor market requirements, inviting them to apply for immigration.
Key Elements of the New EOI System
The key elements of the Expression of Interest (EOI) system is as follows:
- Ongoing Submission: The new system allows continuous submission and processing of EOIs, replacing the old system’s fixed application dates and quotas. Candidates can now express their interest at any time.
- Ranking Mechanism: Candidates are ranked on various criteria, including skills, work experience, and their ability to meet Alberta’s economic needs. Higher-ranked candidates have a better chance of being invited to apply.
- Labor Market Alignment: The selection process is designed to meet the province’s labor market demands, ensuring that selected candidates can significantly contribute to Alberta’s economy.
Transition Period
To facilitate a smooth transition, the AAIP will halt the remaining monthly application acceptance dates for 2024, making way for continuous EOI intake and processing.
Recent Application Acceptance
As of July 25, 2024, the AAIP provided a summary of applications accepted across different streams:
Alberta Opportunity Stream:
- June 11, 2024: 430 applications
- July 11, 2024: 441 applications
Rural Renewal Stream:
- June 11, 2024: 142 applications
- July 9, 2024: 154 applications
Tourism and Hospitality Stream:
- June 11, 2024: 134 applications
- July 9, 2024: 143 applications
Accelerated Tech Pathway
The Accelerated Tech Pathway, which targets technology professionals, is also part of this transition. As of July 25, 2024, there are 446 web form submissions in the pool, received between May 23 and June 11, 2024. Invitations to apply for this pathway will be issued from this existing pool.
Application Volumes and Processing Times
The AAIP reported the following application volumes and processing times as of July 25, 2024:
- Alberta Opportunity Stream: 3,300 unprocessed applications (assessing applications received on or before December 7, 2023)
- Alberta Express Entry Stream: 936 unprocessed applications (assessing applications received by June 25, 2024, for Dedicated Healthcare Pathway and March 5, 2024, for other pathways/initiatives)
- Rural Renewal Stream: 1,995 unprocessed applications (assessing applications received on or before January 24, 2024)
- Tourism and Hospitality Stream: 119 unprocessed applications (assessing applications received on or before July 9, 2024)
- Total Unprocessed Applications: 6,363
Nomination Issuances for 2024
The AAIP has issued several nominations across various streams in 2024. The breakdown of nominations issued and allocated is as follows:
- Alberta Opportunity Stream: 3,326 issued; 5,393 allocated
- Express Entry Stream: 1,321 issued; 1,775 allocated
- Dedicated Healthcare Pathways: 266 issued; 320 allocated
- Accelerated Tech Pathway: 796 issued; 1,047 allocated
- Priority Sector Draws and Other Initiatives: 153 issued; 231 allocated
- Family Connection and Occupation in Demand: 106 issued; 177 allocated
- Rural Renewal Stream: 1,245 issued; 1,900 allocated
- Tourism and Hospitality Stream: 291 issued; 660 allocated
- Entrepreneur Streams (combined Foreign Graduate, Graduate, Rural and Farm Streams): 4 issued; 22 allocated
- Total: 6,187 issued; 9,750 allocated
Benefits for Prospective Immigrants
The new EOI system is expected to be more dynamic and responsive, reducing waiting times and better meeting Alberta’s labor market needs. This approach aims to:
- Increase Efficiency: Continuous intake allows better management of application volumes, reducing processing times.
- Targeted Selection: Candidates with high-demand skills and experience have improved chances of selection.
- Transparency and Fairness: The points-based system ensures a transparent and equitable selection process based on merit.
Preparing for the EOI System
Prospective immigrants should take proactive steps to prepare for the new EOI system:
- Understand the Points Criteria: Familiarize yourself with the factors that affect your ranking, such as work experience, education, language proficiency, and adaptability.
- Enhance Your Profile: Improve your chances by enhancing your qualifications, gaining additional work experience, or improving language skills.
- Stay Updated: Keep abreast of the latest information and updates from the AAIP to understand the evolving labor market needs and their impact on your application.
The introduction of the new EOI system on September 30, 2024, marks a significant milestone in Alberta’s immigration program. By enabling continuous intake and targeted selection, the AAIP aims to attract skilled individuals who can contribute to the province’s economic growth.
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