The Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) has introduced a new temporary measure for select applicants facing work permit expirations in 2024. This initiative, in collaboration with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), is aimed at helping Alberta retain skilled workers while providing relief to applicants awaiting decisions on their permanent residency applications.

Overview of the Temporary Measure

Starting in 2024, this measure specifically targets applicants under the Alberta Opportunity Stream and Rural Renewal Stream. The goal is to allow these applicants to continue working in Alberta without disruption while their permanent residency applications are being processed. By offering an extension to work permits, both applicants and their employers can avoid potential hardships caused by permit expirations.

Eligibility Criteria

Not all AAIP applicants qualify for this temporary measure. The following conditions must be met for eligibility:

1. Work Permit Expiration: The applicant’s work permit must expire in 2024.
2. Application Status: The applicant should already have submitted their permanent residency application and be in the processing stage.
3. Decision Pending: Applicants must have been awaiting a final decision on their permanent residency as of August 26, 2024.
4. Previous Refusal: Applicants whose work permits expired between May 7 and December 31, 2024, and whose application was refused on the basis of the expired permit alone, may also qualify.
5. Status Maintenance: Applicants must show they maintained their legal status throughout the process or qualify for restoration of temporary resident status.

How the Temporary Measure Works

Eligible applicants will be issued a letter of support by the AAIP, which they can use to apply for an open work permit valid for up to 2 years. This open work permit ensures applicants can continue working while their AAIP nomination is processed. For those whose work permits have already expired, demonstrating legal status maintenance or eligibility for restoration is crucial.

The AAIP will contact eligible applicants directly, using the work permit expiry date declared at the time of their application. It’s important to note that this initiative does not require applicants to apply themselves. The AAIP will perform an initial assessment to determine eligibility based on each applicant’s case.

Benefits to Employers and Workers

This temporary measure is a lifeline for Alberta’s businesses that depend on international skilled workers. Employers, especially in high-demand sectors, face significant challenges when workers leave due to expired permits. By keeping these skilled workers employed, the program prevents operational disruptions and the costs associated with hiring and training replacements.

For workers, this initiative offers peace of mind. The ability to extend their work permits ensures job security and allows them to stay in Alberta while their permanent residency applications are finalized. It also reinforces Alberta’s commitment to supporting its immigrant workforce and helping them build long-term careers in the province.

Future Impact and Final Assessments

The open work permit granted under this policy serves as a temporary bridge, giving the AAIP additional time to review and finalize nominations. Final decisions on many of these applications are expected in 2025, ensuring that applicants remain employed and eligible while their cases are assessed.

Moreover, the AAIP will use this time to prioritize applications with work permits that expired between January 1, 2024, and May 6, 2024, as well as permits set to expire in early 2025. These cases will be given priority throughout the remainder of 2024, within the program’s available allocation.

Conclusion

This temporary measure reflects Alberta's dedication to balancing economic stability with the needs of its immigrant workforce. By allowing applicants to extend their work permits and continue contributing to Alberta’s economy, the AAIP reinforces the province’s reputation as a forward-thinking, immigrant-friendly destination.

For applicants and employers alike, staying informed about these updates is crucial to ensuring a smooth transition and continued success in Alberta’s dynamic workforce.

For more information about the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program and other immigration options to Canada, you can contact Zane Immigration Inc.

Contact details: +1 289-541-4261 /  [email protected] /  https://zaneimmigration.ca/