September 1, 2023

Questions and Answers About the Alberta Rural Entrepreneur Stream (RES) – Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP)

Question: What is the real cost of the application for Rural Entrepreneur Stream (RES) under the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP)?

Answer: Aside from the actual business investment (purchase a business or start a business), the following are approximate costs:

• Application Fee to Government of Alberta $3,500
• Professional Fee to authorized CPA firm
  • Business Plan Evaluation Report
  • Qualified Service Provider Report

Informational Note: The Government of Alberta recognizes only three (3) professional evaluators – KPMG, MNP and Grant Thornton. The above price table is sourced from CIVS clients who have requested quotations from the authorized service providers. Individual quotations may vary and are subject to change at the sole discretion of the CPA firms. The above is provided as an approximate cost that is associated with the program.

Business Plan: Budget $3,500. CIVS can assist you.

CIVS professional fee for assistance with Rural Entrepreneur Stream application, Community Support Letter, Application for Work Visa and Permanent Residence: Budget $25,000

Question: What does an Expression of Interest (EOI) look like in the first stage?

Answer:

From: AAIP-PROD.S <AAIP-PROD.S@gov.ab.ca>

Sent: Friday, July 14, 2023 12:53:32 AM

To: XX <XX@XX.com>

Subject: RE: ALBERTA ADVANTAGE IMMIGRATION PROGRAM – RURAL ENTREPRENEUR STREAM EXPRESSION OF INTEREST (EOI) NUMBER: REIS-XXX AAIP:XXX

 Dear XXX,

 (THIS IS AN AUTOMATED MESSAGE – PLEASE DO NOT REPLY DIRECTLY TO THIS EMAIL)

Thank you for your EOI under the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program – Rural Entrepreneur Stream.

 The Alberta Advantage Immigration Program has reviewed your EOI. Based on the information provided, your EOI meets the minimum program criteria and is placed in the pool of qualified candidates for Rural Entrepreneur Stream.

 You may log in to your Alberta Advantage Immigration Program portal to view your EOI score. If your EOI is selected, you will be sent an email requesting to submit your Business Application to the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program. It is your responsibility to ensure that your EOI has up to date information. If information in your EOI changes while it is in the pool of qualified candidates, you should update it through the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program portal. The Alberta Advantage Immigration Program may rescore your EOI based on the updated information in your EOI.

 Your EOI is placed in the pool of qualified candidates for a period of 12 months from the date of its original submission. If your EOI is not selected in this 12-month period, it will expire and you will have to submit a new EOI. You may refer to the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program website for the current program criteria.

 Regards,

Alberta Advantage Immigration Program.

This letter is electronically generated and does not require a signature.

This communication is intended for the use of the recipient to whom it is addressed, and may contain confidential, personal and or privileged information. Please contact us immediately if you are not the intended recipient of this communication, and do not copy, distribute, or take action relying on it. Any communication received in error, or subsequent reply, should be deleted or destroyed.

Informational Note: The above is redacted / excerpted text from the Government of Alberta once an Expression of Interest has been issued.

Question: What does an Expression of Interest (EOI) look like on second stage of approval?

Answer:

From: AAIP-PROD.S AAIP-PROD.S@gov.ab.ca
Sent: Friday, July 14, 2023

To: XX <XX@aXX.com>

Subject: RE: Alberta Advantage Immigration Program – Rural Entrepreneur Stream EXPRESSION OF INTEREST (EOI) NUMBER: REIS-EOXX AAIP:0XXXX

 Dear XX,

(THIS IS AN AUTOMATED MESSAGE – PLEASE DO NOT REPLY DIRECTLY TO THIS EMAIL)

Thank you for your Expression of Interest (EOI) under the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program – Rural Entrepreneur Stream. Your EOI is selected by the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program and you may be eligible to submit Business Application under this stream. You have 90 days from the date of receiving this email to submit the Business Application.

Next steps:

1. Review the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program Rural Entrepreneur Stream for selection criteria and instructions on how to submit a complete Business Application with the required supporting documents and processing fee.

There is no guarantee that Business Application will be assessed for nomination or that any Business Application meeting criteria will result in a nomination. Submission of Business Application or nomination by the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program does not guarantee you will be issued a permanent resident visa. 

2. You must contact one of the Qualified Service Providers/Designated Agencies listed on the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program website as soon as possible to obtain a report, which includes your net worth and business investment assessment, and business plan evaluation. 
3. If you think you meet the criteria of Rural Entrepreneur Stream, access the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program portal to start the Business Application process. After logging in the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program portal, click on Check Existing Applications. A draft Rural Entrepreneur Stream Business Application is automatically created for you. Review and update the Business Application and provide all additional required documents. Your Rural Entrepreneur Stream Business Application must be current and complete.
4. Please ensure to include your Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) along with your Language testing results as stated on the Business Application Document Checklist.

If you have reviewed the eligibility criteria on the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program website and you still have a question, contact the Entrepreneur Support Service at entrepreneur.supportservice@gov.ab.ca.

It is your responsibility to review the information in your Business Application and ensure that it is up to date. You must update your Business Application prior to submission if there are any changes to your situation. Examples of changes include updated contact information, work experience, family composition, etc.

If you do not submit your Business Application, including all required supporting documents in the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program portal within 90 days from the date of this email, your draft Business Application will be purged and you will have to create new EOI profile.

Regards,
Alberta Advantage Immigration Program
This letter is electronically generated and does not require a signature.
This communication is intended for the use of the recipient to whom it is addressed and may contain confidential, personal and or privileged information. Please contact us immediately if you are not the intended recipient of this communication, and do not copy, distribute, or take action relying on it. Any communication received in error, or subsequent reply should be deleted or destroyed.

Informational Note: The above is redacted/excerpted text from the Government of Alberta once an Expression of Interest has been issued.

Question: What does an Expression of Interest (EOI) Points Score look like?

Answer:

Informational Note: This is an actual score of a recent CIVS client who received a positive Expression of Interest (EOI).

Question: Can CIVS represent me as applicant in the process?

Answer: Sean G McKinsley specializes in the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) / Rural Entrepreneur Stream (RES). As your authorized representative, Sean and the team at CIVS can assist you every step of the way.

General Overview of the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP)

Unlocking Opportunities: Alberta Provincial Nomination Programs and Immigration to Alberta

Alberta, a province known for its vast landscapes, thriving economy, and welcoming communities, offers a range of Provincial Nomination Programs (PNPs) that provide pathways to Canadian permanent residency. These programs are designed to attract skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and other individuals who can contribute to Alberta’s growth and development. This article delves into Alberta’s Provincial Nomination Programs, shedding light on the opportunities they offer to immigrants and the province’s economy.

Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP)

The Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) is Alberta’s provincial nomination program that allows the province to select a predetermined number of individuals each year for permanent residency. The AINP includes various streams, each catering to specific categories of individuals with diverse skill sets and goals:

1. Alberta Express Entry Stream: This stream is aligned with the federal Express Entry system, targeting candidates with strong human capital factors. Those with skills and experience in occupations that support Alberta’s economic development may be nominated.
2. Alberta Opportunity Stream: The Opportunity Stream is designed for workers in Alberta who have a valid work permit and meet specific eligibility criteria. This stream is for those working in eligible occupations in Alberta who have a job offer and meet minimum income requirements.
3. Self-Employed Farmer Stream: This stream caters to individuals with farming experience who intend to purchase and manage a farming operation in Alberta. The province’s agricultural sector benefits from the skills and expertise brought in by such applicants.

Advantages of Alberta Immigration

1. Economic Opportunities: Alberta’s robust economy, driven by industries such as energy, technology, and agriculture, offers immigrants ample job prospects and business opportunities.
2. High Standard of Living: Immigrants who settle in Alberta can enjoy a high quality of life, excellent healthcare, education, and a variety of recreational and cultural activities.
3. Community and Diversity: Alberta’s multicultural communities provide a welcoming environment for immigrants to integrate and contribute to the province’s rich cultural tapestry.
4. Entrepreneurial Pathways: Alberta’s Entrepreneur programs, such as the Self-Employed Farmer Stream, open doors for individuals with aspirations to run their own businesses or contribute to the province’s agriculture sector.

Trusted Advice Through Canada Immigration and Visa Services

Sean G McKinsley and the team at CIVS specialize in the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program.

Alberta Provincial Nomination Programs offer a bridge to permanent residency for individuals seeking a new start in a thriving Canadian province. With streams catering to skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and more, Alberta recognizes the potential immigrants bring to the table. As newcomers settle into Alberta’s diverse communities and contribute to its economic growth, the province’s commitment to immigration continues to shape a brighter future for all. As immigration policies may change, it’s essential to keep up to date with the latest information from official government sources before considering immigration to Alberta.

Contact sean.mckinsley@civs.ca

Book appointment:  https://civs.ca/book/

WhatsApp: +1-587-891-6778

Overview of the Alberta Opportunity Stream: A Pathway to Permanent Residency

The Alberta Opportunity Stream is a significant component of the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP), offering skilled foreign workers a streamlined pathway to obtain Canadian permanent residency. This stream is tailored to candidates who are currently working in Alberta on a valid work permit and meet specific eligibility criteria. Designed to address the labour market needs of the province, the Alberta Opportunity Stream aims to attract individuals who are committed to contributing to Alberta’s economy and community.

Key Features and Eligibility Criteria

1. Eligibility Requirements:

To be eligible for the Alberta Opportunity Stream, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Valid Work Permit: Candidates must possess a valid work permit for an eligible occupation in Alberta. This work permit must be issued under one of the following categories: Temporary Foreign Worker Program, International Mobility Program, or Post-Graduation Work Permit.
• Work Experience: Applicants must have at least 12 months of full-time work experience in the current occupation in Alberta. Part-time work experience will be considered if it amounts to 1,560 hours or more.
• Occupation: The occupation in which the candidate has work experience must be classified under one of the eligible occupations listed by the AAIP. These occupations are identified based on Alberta’s labour market needs.
• Residency and Work Authorization: Candidates must currently reside in Alberta and have a valid work permit for the specific occupation they are working in.
• Language Proficiency: Applicants need to meet the minimum language proficiency requirements in either English or French, as specified by the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) or Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC).

2. Job Offer and Income Requirements:

In addition to meeting the general eligibility criteria, candidates must meet specific job offer and income requirements:

• Job Offer: Candidates must have a bona fide job offer for full-time employment in Alberta. The job offer should be in an eligible occupation and meet the standards set by the Government of Alberta.
• Income Requirements: Applicants must meet the minimum income requirements, which are based on family size. This ensures that candidates have sufficient income to support themselves and their family members.

3. Intention to Reside in Alberta:

Candidates must demonstrate their intention to reside in Alberta permanently and contribute to the province’s economy and community.

Application Process

The application process for the Alberta Opportunity Stream involves several steps:

1. Check Eligibility: Review the eligibility criteria to ensure you meet the requirements.
2. Job Offer: Secure a bona fide job offer from an Alberta employer in an eligible occupation.
3. Language Proficiency: Take a language test and meet the minimum language proficiency requirements.
4. Documentation: Gather the necessary documents, including work permit, language test results, education credentials, job offer, and other relevant information.
5. Submit Application: Submit your application through the AAIP Online Portal. Ensure that all required documents are uploaded.
6. Assessment: The AAIP will assess your application to determine your eligibility for the Alberta Opportunity Stream.
7. Nomination: If your application is approved, you will receive a nomination certificate from the AAIP.
8. Express Entry Profile (if applicable): Candidates nominated through the Alberta Opportunity Stream can create an Express Entry profile and receive an additional 600 points toward their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.
9. Apply for Permanent Residency: With your nomination certificate, you can apply for permanent residency through the federal government.

Benefits of the Alberta Opportunity Stream

• Streamlined Process: The Alberta Opportunity Stream offers a simplified and efficient pathway to permanent residency for skilled foreign workers who are already working in Alberta.
• Express Entry Advantage: Candidates nominated through this stream receive an additional 600 CRS points, significantly enhancing their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency through the Express Entry system.
• In-Demand Occupations: The stream targets occupations that are in demand in Alberta, increasing the likelihood of successful employment and integration.
• Community Integration: Successful candidates become integral parts of Alberta’s communities, contributing to the province’s social and economic fabric.

The Alberta Opportunity Stream is a testament to Alberta’s commitment to attracting and retaining skilled workers who can contribute to the province’s growth and prosperity. As immigration policies and programs may change over time, it’s essential to refer to the official Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) website for the most up-to-date information before applying.

Unveiling the Rural Entrepreneur Investment Stream: Alberta’s Strategic Immigration Advantage

Introduction: In a globalized world where economic opportunities transcend borders, immigration policies play a pivotal role in shaping a nation’s growth trajectory. Alberta, a province in Canada known for its natural beauty and resource-rich economy, has harnessed the potential of skilled immigrant entrepreneurs to further bolster its rural economies. The Rural Entrepreneur Investment Stream under the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program stands as a testament to the province’s commitment to fostering innovation, economic diversification, and sustainable growth in its rural communities.

Understanding the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program: The Alberta Advantage Immigration Program is a comprehensive framework designed to attract and retain individuals with skills and experience that align with the province’s economic priorities. Under this program, the Rural Entrepreneur Investment Stream emerges as a unique pathway, aiming to invigorate rural communities by leveraging the expertise and investment potential of immigrant entrepreneurs.

Key Components of the Rural Entrepreneur Investment Stream:

1. Investment Requirement: To be eligible for this stream, candidates are required to make an investment of a certain minimum amount in an eligible business in a designated rural community. This investment requirement not only infuses much-needed capital into these rural economies but also signifies the entrepreneur’s commitment to the community’s growth.
2. Business Performance Expectations: Beyond the initial investment, the program sets out performance expectations for the businesses. Immigrant entrepreneurs are expected to actively manage and operate their businesses, contributing not only financially but also through their expertise and innovation. This dynamic involvement fosters a symbiotic relationship between the entrepreneur and the community.
3. Job Creation: One of the primary objectives of the Rural Entrepreneur Investment Stream is to generate employment opportunities within rural Alberta. Entrepreneurs are required to create and maintain a certain number of jobs for Canadian citizens or permanent residents, thereby addressing local employment needs.
4. Community Engagement: Successful candidates are encouraged to engage with the local community, participating in activities that enhance the socio-economic fabric. This approach goes beyond mere business transactions and helps create a sense of belonging and shared responsibility for community development.

Benefits for Immigrant Entrepreneurs:

1. Gateway to Permanent Residency: The Rural Entrepreneur Investment Stream serves as a gateway for immigrant entrepreneurs to secure permanent residency in Alberta, fostering stability and long-term commitment to the province.
2. Business Expansion and Innovation: Immigrant entrepreneurs gain a platform to innovate, expand their business horizons, and tap into Alberta’s vast resources and networks.
3. Quality of Life: Alberta’s serene rural communities offer a high quality of life, allowing entrepreneurs and their families to enjoy a harmonious blend of nature and economic pursuits.

Benefits for Rural Communities:

1. Economic Revitalization: The injection of investment and business activities brings renewed economic vitality to rural areas, mitigating population decline and supporting sustainable development.
2. Skill Transfer and Knowledge Exchange: Immigrant entrepreneurs often bring diverse skills and experiences that can enrich the local workforce and foster knowledge exchange between cultures.
3. Cultural Diversity: The program contributes to a more diverse and inclusive community by introducing new cultural perspectives and traditions.

Challenges and Considerations: While the Rural Entrepreneur Investment Stream presents a promising avenue for both immigrant entrepreneurs and rural communities, certain challenges must be addressed:

1. Access to Information: Ensuring that potential candidates are well-informed about the program’s requirements, benefits, and application process is crucial for its success.
2. Business Viability: Striking a balance between attracting investment and ensuring the viability of the businesses established is vital to prevent misallocation of resources.
3. Community Integration: Promoting meaningful integration between immigrant entrepreneurs and the local community can help overcome potential cultural or communication barriers.

Trusted Advice: The Rural Entrepreneur Investment Stream within the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program stands as a beacon of innovation and collaboration. By encouraging immigrant entrepreneurs to invest in and actively contribute to Alberta’s rural communities, the program not only drives economic growth but also fosters social cohesion, cultural enrichment, and sustainable development. As this program continues to evolve, it holds the potential to reshape the rural landscape and solidify Alberta’s position as a global leader in strategic immigration policies.

To schedule an appointment online, use the following link:

or  email: sean.mckinsley@civs.ca

Contact Us:

Website: www.civs.ca 

Email: info@civs.ca

WhatsApp: +1-587-891-6778

Sean G McKinsley, Managing Partner & Founder
RCIC & CICC Member R529731
Office: +1-587-400-3350
WhatsApp:+1-587-891-6778
Email: sean.mckinsley@civs.ca