Maple News reports that the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) has implemented significant fee increases across several of its immigration pathways, effective April 1, 2025. The new pricing adjustments mark a notable rise in costs for workers and entrepreneurs looking to make Alberta their new home.
Under the updated fee structure, applicants to AAIP’s worker streams will now pay a processing fee of CAD $1,500. This represents a sharp increase from the previous rate of $840. The change applies to those who submit their applications or requests on or after April 1, 2025.
The affected worker streams include the Alberta Opportunity Stream, the Alberta Express Entry Stream, the Rural Renewal Stream, and the Tourism and Hospitality Stream. These programs are designed to support the province’s labour market by attracting skilled workers who align with Alberta’s economic needs.
In addition to the worker stream changes, Alberta has raised the fee for its Farm Stream—a program targeting experienced agricultural entrepreneurs willing to invest in the province’s farming industry. The application fee for this stream has jumped from $500 to $3,500, making it one of the most substantial increases across all AAIP categories.
Another fee adjustment involves the reissuance of expired nomination certificates, which has increased from $100 to $150. This charge is typically incurred when a previously granted nomination certificate expires before the applicant can submit a permanent residence application.
Notably, other entrepreneur-focused immigration pathways under the AAIP have not been subjected to similar fee hikes. This selective approach suggests Alberta is prioritizing certain streams that directly respond to pressing labour shortages and industry gaps.
These changes place the AAIP’s application fees among the higher tier within Canada’s Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), prompting potential applicants to closely review their financial and immigration plans.
According to Maple News, the fee adjustments are part of Alberta’s broader strategy to ensure the long-term sustainability and efficiency of its immigration processing system while continuing to attract qualified candidates who meet the province’s evolving economic needs.