Alberta Skill Shortage Work Visa Program Now Open – Major Updates for May 2025
Are you a skilled worker looking to build your future in Canada? Alberta could be your gateway. With its strong economy, high living standards, and growing industries, Alberta continues to attract talent from around the world.
In May 2025, the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) is officially accepting new applications — and it comes with important updates. Here’s everything you need to know, including eligibility, high-demand jobs, new English test options, and application fees.
What is the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP)?
The AAIP is Alberta’s Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), allowing the province to nominate eligible foreign nationals for permanent residency. It supports economic growth by addressing labor shortages across both urban and rural areas.
AAIP Streams Available in 2025
As of May 2025, the following worker streams are open for applications:
| Stream | Who It’s For | Status |
| Alberta Opportunity Stream | Temporary foreign workers with job offers in Alberta | Open |
| Rural Renewal Stream | Skilled workers with job offers in designated rural communities | Open |
| Tourism & Hospitality Stream | Temporary workers in Alberta’s tourism or hospitality sector | Open |
| Alberta Express Entry Stream | Express Entry candidates meeting Alberta’s criteria | Open |
These streams help applicants gain a provincial nomination, significantly boosting their chances for Canadian permanent residency through IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada).
Key AAIP Updates (Effective April 1, 2025)
- PTE Core Now Accepted
The Pearson Test of English (PTE) Core is now accepted for all AAIP streams, joining IELTS and CELPIP. PTE Core offers:
- Rapid results (within 48 hours)
- A fully digital, computer-based testing process
- Global availability
This gives candidates more flexibility when fulfilling English language requirements.
- Application Fee Increase
Application fees for worker streams have risen from $840 to $1,500, effective April 1, 2025. This applies to the following streams:
- Alberta Opportunity Stream
- Rural Renewal Stream
- Alberta Express Entry Stream
- Tourism & Hospitality Stream
Important: The fee is non-refundable and must be paid within 24 hours of submitting a complete application.
In-Demand Jobs in Alberta (2025)
Alberta is experiencing skill shortages in healthcare, trades, IT, and more. Below are high-demand occupations and their average annual salaries:
| Occupation | NOC Code | Sector | Avg. 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 strong candidates for nomination under the Opportunity, Rural Renewal, or Express Entry streams.
Eligibility Criteria – AAIP 2025 Worker Streams
To apply through a worker stream, you must meet the following general requirements:
- A valid job offer from an eligible Alberta employer
- At least 1 year of relevant work experience in the past 3 years
- Language proficiency: CLB 4–6 or equivalent in IELTS, CELPIP, or PTE Core
- Educational credentials equivalent to Canadian high school or higher (via ECA)
- Settlement funds, unless you’re already working in Alberta
- A genuine intent to live and work in Alberta permanently
For entrepreneur streams, additional requirements apply related to business experience and investment.
AAIP 2025 Nomination Stats (as of May)
Here’s a quick look at how many nominations have been issued so far in 2025:
| Stream | Nominations Issued | Quota Remaining |
| Alberta Opportunity Stream | 1,127 | 1,465 |
| Rural Renewal Stream | 349 | 601 |
| Tourism & Hospitality Stream | 85 | 160 |
| Alberta Express Entry (Healthcare) | 142 | 358 |
How to Apply for the AAIP 2025 Program
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) online
- Wait for an invitation to apply based on your EOI score
- If invited, submit a full application and pay the $1,500 fee within 24 hours
- If approved, receive a provincial nomination for PR application
Note: There is no fee to submit an Expression of Interest.
For more details please contact my team.
+91 63806 92148
+91 63015 50340
