AINP developing new streams for 2018

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? The Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program has announced that it will change the way it accepts applications next year.

What does the change mean? Effective Jan. 2, AINP will accept applications through a new Alberta Opportunity Stream and the Self-Employed Farmer Stream. AINP will also introduce an Alberta Express Entry stream. The changes are designed to streamline application processes and make Alberta more responsive to changes in the labor market.

• Implementation time frame: Jan. 2.
• Visas/permits affected: Permanent residency through AINP.
• Who is affected: Employers and foreign nationals applying for permanent residency through AINP.
• Business impact: Officials expect that changes will simplify application processes, reduce wait times and help Alberta become more responsive to labor market trends.

Background: AINP allows foreign nationals to apply for permanent residency by securing a nomination of the Government of Alberta. The forthcoming Alberta Opportunity Stream will replace the current Employer-Driven and Strategic Recruitment streams. There will be one set of criteria and a single application for all applicants in the new stream, while criteria in the Self-Employed Farmer Stream will remain unchanged. The Alberta Express Entry stream, meanwhile, will allow provincial authorities to nominate for and select applicants from the federal Express Entry permanent residency program. Additional information is available here.

BAL Analysis: Employers and foreign nationals interested in applying for permanent residency through AINP should take note of the changes and of application cutoff dates. Applications dated Jan. 1, 2018, or earlier will be processed under existing criteria, while those dated Jan. 2 or later must adhere to the new rules and will be adjudicated under the new criteria.

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