Alberta Business Immigration

Program Overview

The Rural Entrepreneur Stream supports foreign entrepreneurs who want to start or buy a business in rural Alberta communities (generally populations under 100,000) and actively manage it. Successful applicants who meet performance goals can be nominated for permanent residence. 

Who This is For

This stream is ideal for individuals who:

• • Want to settle in rural Alberta and contribute to local economic growth.
  • Have business experience and funds to invest.
  • Are prepared to commit to the community.

Core Eligibility Requirements

Program Process

1️⃣ Conduct an exploratory visit to your chosen rural community.

2️⃣ Secure a Community Support Letter with a business concept.

3️⃣ Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to AAIP.

4️⃣ If selected from the EOI pool, receive an Invitation to Apply.

5️⃣ Submit your full application with business plan and documentation.

6️⃣ If approved, receive a work permit support letter and move to Alberta.

7️⃣ Establish and operate the business according to your plan.

8️⃣ After meeting all conditions, receive a nomination and apply for permanent residency.

Why Choose the Rural Stream

• • Lower net worth and investment requirements compared to many other provincial entrepreneur streams.
  • Strong community support can enhance business success.
  • Rural Alberta offers lower operating costs and local market opportunities.

2. AAIP Graduate Entrepreneur Stream

Program Overview

The Graduate Entrepreneur Stream is for international graduates of Alberta post secondary institutions who want to establish or buy and run a business in Alberta and pursue permanent residency. 

Who This is For

This stream is ideal for individuals who:

• • Have completed at least two years of full time study at an Alberta Advanced Education publicly funded post secondary institution.
  • Have a valid Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) at the time of EOI submission.

Core Eligibility Requirements

Program Process

1️⃣ Prepare your business plan and supporting documentation.

2️⃣ Submit Expression of Interest (EOI) through the AAIP Portal.

3️⃣ If your EOI score is competitive, you may be invited to submit a Business Application.

4️⃣ Submit the full Business Application with required documentation and fees.

5️⃣ If approved, receive a nomination certificate.

6️⃣ Apply for Canadian permanent residence through IRCC.

3. AAIP Foreign Graduate Entrepreneur Stream

Program Overview

The Foreign Graduate Entrepreneur Stream targets foreign graduates from institutions outside Canada who want to launch start up enterprises or innovative businesses in Alberta.

Who This is For

This stream is ideal for individuals who:

• • Have completed a post secondary degree outside Canada.
  • Want to establish a start up or innovative business in Alberta

Core Eligibility Requirements

Program Process

1️⃣ Prepare a detailed business plan, pitch deck, and settlement funds documentation.

2️⃣ Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) via the AAIP Portal.

3️⃣ If selected, receive an invitation to submit a full Business Application.

4️⃣ Submit the complete Business Application including all mandatory documents and fees.

5️⃣ If approved, receive nomination and proceed with a work permit and permanent residence application.