To provide a comprehensive overview of the updates to Alberta’s immigration policies in March and April 2025, I will break down the changes step by step. These updates are part of the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP), which plays a critical role in facilitating immigration to Alberta for skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and families.
Acceptance of Pearson Test of English (PTE) Core for Language Requirements
Effective Date: April 1, 2025
What Changed:
As of April 1, 2025, the AAIP now accepts the Pearson Test of English (PTE) Core as a valid language proficiency test for all streams under its program. This is an addition to other accepted tests such as IELTS, CELPIP, and TEF Canada (for French-speaking applicants). The PTE Core is a computer-based exam that provides results within 48 hours and focuses on real-world English skills.
Why It Matters:
This change increases flexibility for applicants by offering another testing option. The quick turnaround time for results makes it particularly appealing for those seeking faster processing times.
Who Is Affected:
The acceptance of PTE Core applies to all AAIP streams, including worker streams like the Alberta Opportunity Stream and Alberta Express Entry Stream, as well as entrepreneur streams like the Graduate Entrepreneur Stream and Rural Entrepreneur Stream.
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Increased Application Fees for Worker Streams
Effective Date: April 1, 2025
What Changed:
The application fee for AAIP worker streams has increased from $840 to $1,500, reflecting rising service delivery costs. This change affects popular worker streams such as:
- Alberta Opportunity Stream
- Alberta Express Entry Stream
- Rural Renewal Stream
- Tourism and Hospitality Stream
Fees for entrepreneur streams remain unchanged at $3,500.
Why It Matters:
This fee increase may impact applicants’ budgets significantly. It reflects Alberta’s effort to align fees with operational costs while maintaining sustainability in its immigration programs.
Who Is Affected:
Anyone submitting an application under these worker streams on or after April 1, 2025. Applications submitted before this date are exempt from the new fee structure.
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Flexibility in Updating Express Entry Profiles
Effective Date: March 17, 2025
What Changed:
Express Entry candidates who submitted their profiles on or after September 30, 2024, can now update their profiles if they are nearing expiration before a decision is made. Previously, expired profiles would result in disqualification from consideration.
Why It Matters:
This change allows candidates to maintain eligibility without starting over with a new profile. It ensures that qualified individuals remain in the pool despite delays in processing times.
Who Is Affected:
Candidates applying through the Alberta Express Entry Stream whose profiles are expiring soon can benefit from this update by refreshing their details through the portal.
Non-Participation in Federal Work Permit Public Policy
Effective Date: March 17, 2025
What Changed:
Alberta has opted out of participating in the federal government’s “Temporary Public Policy to Facilitate Work Permits for Prospective Provincial Nominee Program Candidates” for 2025. This policy was designed to streamline work permits for provincial nominee candidates awaiting nomination decisions.
Why It Matters:
By opting out of this policy, Alberta retains control over its nomination process and prioritizes addressing local economic needs rather than adhering to a uniform federal approach. However, this decision may lead to longer wait times or additional steps for applicants transitioning from visitor or student status while awaiting nominations.
Who Is Affected:
Prospective AAIP nominees who were hoping to benefit from faster work permit facilitation under this federal initiative will need to follow standard processes instead.
End of Family Connection and Occupation in Demand Pathway
Effective Date: March 17, 2025
What Changed:
The AAIP has discontinued issuing invitations under the Family Connection and Occupation in Demand pathway within the Alberta Express Entry Stream. However:
- Applicants can still earn points under the Expression of Interest (EOI) system if they have qualifying family members (parent, sibling, or child) who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents over age 18 living in Alberta.
- Points can also be earned based on other EOI factors like language proficiency or work experience.
Why It Matters:
This pathway previously prioritized candidates with family ties or high-demand occupations but is now replaced by broader EOI criteria. While it levels the playing field across applicants globally, it reduces priority access based solely on family connections or specific occupations.
Who Is Affected:
Candidates relying on family ties or high-demand occupations must now focus on strengthening their overall EOI scores through other factors like education credentials or language proficiency scores.
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Summary of Key Changes
In summary:
- Pearson Test of English (PTE) Core Accepted (April 1):
- New language testing option available across all AAIP streams.
- Increased Application Fees (April 1):
- Worker stream fees raised to $1,500.
- Flexibility with Express Entry Profiles (March 17):
- Expiring profiles can now be updated instead of being disqualified.
- Non-Participation in Federal Work Permit Policy (March 17):
- No streamlined work permits; standard processes apply.
- End of Family Connection Pathway (March 17):
- Invitations discontinued; points still available via EOI system for family ties.
These updates reflect significant shifts aimed at modernizing Alberta’s immigration system while aligning it with provincial priorities and economic needs.
