Maple News reports that Alberta has launched a new online tool, the Eligibility Explorer, to help foreign nationals determine which Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) streams they may qualify for.
Users complete a brief questionnaire, and within minutes the tool identifies potential permanent residence pathways based on their responses.
The Eligibility Explorer requires applicants to specify whether they intend to live and work in Alberta, or start or buy a business in the province.
After the tool identifies suitable streams, users can review stream requirements and, if interested, create an Expression of Interest (EOI) via Alberta’s EOI system.
Questions adapt to the user’s goal: those aiming to work are asked about their job offer, Alberta residency status, work permit type (if residing in Alberta), and National Occupational Classification (NOC) code.
For prospective entrepreneurs, the tool asks about educational background, investment capacity, and interest in establishing a business in a rural part of Alberta.
The tool is for guidance only and does not confirm eligibility or guarantee an invitation after submitting an EOI.
As of launch, there is a $135 fee to submit a worker EOI and a $200 fee to submit an EOI for an entrepreneur stream, with the Farm Stream exception allowing direct-to-application for a $3,500 fee.
Maple News notes that Alberta announced the tool on June 17 via its AAIP updates page, as part of ongoing efforts to streamline provincial immigration and attract talent and investment.