Introduction: The Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) has recently implemented significant changes to its application intake process. Additionally, in a bid to address labor shortages and foster economic growth, a new immigration stream targeting the tourism and hospitality sector is set to launch on March 1, 2024.

Temporary Pause on Alberta Opportunity Stream: The AAIP has temporarily paused the intake of applications under the Alberta Opportunity Stream until further notice. While applications submitted before the pause will continue to be assessed, draft applications in the AAIP portal not submitted before the pause, including those pending final fee payment, will not be accepted. This temporary measure aims to allow the program to manage its current inventory and focus on priority sectors such as healthcare, technology, construction, agriculture, tourism, and hospitality.

Future Application Management Measures: During the pause, the AAIP will be implementing measures to manage future application volumes, ensuring alignment with program priorities and maintaining reasonable service standards. The program is committed to providing updates on the resumption of application intake in the affected stream.

Launch of Tourism and Hospitality Stream: In a move to support Alberta’s tourism and hospitality industry, the AAIP is introducing a new immigration stream, the Tourism and Hospitality Stream, on March 1, 2024. This stream is designed to address labor gaps in the sector and expedite the processing of applications within other priority initiatives.

Importance of Tourism and Hospitality Sector: Alberta’s tourism and hospitality sector plays a vital role in the province’s economic growth, particularly in rural areas and communities outside major urban centers. In 2022, the province witnessed a substantial increase in tourism spending, reaching $10.7 billion, signifying a complete recovery from the pandemic downturn.

The Tourism and Hospitality Stream Details: This new immigration stream will enable Alberta businesses in the tourism and hospitality industry to attract and retain skilled workers. The stream is open to individuals who have been working for a tourism and hospitality business for at least six months and meet the criteria to establish permanent residency in Alberta.

Reactions and Support: Stakeholders, including the Minister of Immigration and Multiculturalism, Muhammad Yaseen, and industry leaders, have welcomed the Tourism and Hospitality Stream. The Tourism Industry Association of Alberta and other organizations express their gratitude for this dedicated immigration stream, emphasizing its role in addressing persistent labor shortages in the sector.

Conclusion: The recent changes in the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program reflect a strategic approach to managing immigration applications and addressing labor shortages in key sectors. The launch of the Tourism and Hospitality Stream underscores the province’s commitment to supporting its vital tourism and hospitality industry, ensuring sustained economic growth and job creation.

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Please note: Information in this article is based on official updates from the Alberta government as of the date of publication.