Canada: Alberta to launch new permanent residency system for skilled workers
This move is part of the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program, which aims to streamline the selection process for skilled workers.
Alberta: Alberta, a province in Canada, is set to implement a new permanent residency scoring system on September 30th, 2024.
This initiative is designed for individuals aiming to apply through the province's worker immigration streams and is part of the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP).
The program seeks to streamline the selection process for skilled workers and better align candidate profiles with Alberta’s current labour market needs.
Key features of the AAIP worker EOI system
The AAIP’s Worker Expression of Interest (EOI) system offers a fee-free opportunity for eligible candidates to submit their qualifications.
No fees involved
Candidates can submit a Worker EOI without incurring any fees, making it an accessible option for all qualified individuals.
Scoring system
Profiles will be evaluated based on various criteria, including education, language proficiency, work experience, age, and family connections in Alberta.
Regular draws
The AAIP plans to conduct ongoing draws from the Worker Stream pool, selecting candidates based on their EOI scores and the demands of Alberta’s labour market.
Understanding the EOI submission process
Candidates will self-declare their qualifications through the AAIP portal, providing information about their education, skills, and work experience using the online application system.
This self-declaration enables applicants to present their qualifications directly without needing external verification at this stage.
Points grid
The EOI form requires comprehensive information, evaluated using a points grid that determines eligibility and ranking for selection.
Each factor contributes to an overall score out of 100, covering categories such as education, language skills, and work experience.
Draw schedule
Draws for selected candidates will commence in mid-to-late October 2024, giving candidates ample time to prepare their submissions.
Breakdown of the points grid
The Worker EOI points grid is crucial for candidates, as it determines their eligibility and ranking:
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Education: Candidates can earn up to 22 points based on their education level. A doctorate receives 12 points, while bachelor’s degrees and diplomas score 7. Completing education in Alberta adds 10 points.
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Language proficiency: A minimum of CLB 4 (Canadian Language Benchmark) in English or NCLC 4 in French is required. Higher proficiency can earn up to 13 points.
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Work experience: A maximum of 21 points can be obtained through relevant work experience.
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Family connections: Candidates with immediate family members in Alberta can gain up to 8 points, improving their chances of selection.
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Economic factors: Holding a job offer in Alberta can provide up to 31 points, particularly for roles in high-demand sectors.
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Age: Candidates aged 21 to 34 receive the maximum of 5 points, wae those in other age groups earn fewer points.
Preparing for submission
To enhance their chances of success, candidates should take specific steps before submitting their Worker EOI:
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Eligibility confirmation: Review the eligibility criteria for AAIP worker streams to ensure compliance.
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Familiarity with points grid: Understanding thethe scoring system is vital for maximising potential points.
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Account management: Only one EOI can be active at a time. Therefore, it is essential to withdraw any existing applications before submitting a new one.
Takeaway
The new Worker EOI system aims to align Alberta’s immigration processes with its labour market demands. As the launch date approaches, candidates are encouraged to assess their qualifications and prepare accordingly.
By aligning their EOIs with the province’s needs, applicants can improve their chances of receiving an invitation to apply.
For further details and updates, candidates should visit the official AAIP website.