AAIP implements temporary changes due to recent wildfires
The Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) has implemented temporary changes in response to the recent wildfires that have severely impacted the province, specifically aiming to aid workers whose employment has been disrupted. These adjustments, which began on July 19, 2024, and are set to last until November 30, 2024, target the Alberta Opportunity Stream and the Tourism and Hospitality Stream. This initiative reflects Alberta’s efforts to support its workforce during a challenging time and help stabilise the economy, especially within the tourism and hospitality sectors that have been heavily affected.
The impact of wildfires
Alberta has faced an unprecedented number of wildfires this year, with over 100 fires burning in various parts of the province. These fires have not only devastated landscapes and homes but have also disrupted key economic activities. One of the hardest-hit areas is Jasper, a hub for tourism in Alberta. The hospitality sector in Jasper, which relies heavily on temporary and foreign workers, saw significant job losses and disruptions as businesses were forced to close or limit operations.
In recognition of the economic and social impact of these fires, the Alberta government has moved swiftly to make temporary changes to its immigration program to accommodate those affected. The aim is to ensure that workers, particularly those tied to the tourism and hospitality sectors, can continue working in the province even if they have lost their jobs due to fire-related business closures.
Waiving work experience requirements
Under normal circumstances, the Alberta Opportunity Stream requires candidates to have at least 12 months of full-time work experience in their current occupation in Alberta within the past 18 months. Alternatively, candidates could qualify with 24 months of full-time work experience in the same occupation in other parts of Canada or internationally within the past 30 months. Post-Graduation Work Permit holders must have at least six months of experience in their occupation in Alberta within the last 18 months.
The Tourism and Hospitality Stream similarly has work experience requirements, mandating six consecutive months (780 hours) of employment in Alberta’s hospitality sector. This was particularly challenging for workers affected by the fires, as many hotels, resorts, and other hospitality businesses faced operational setbacks.
To mitigate these difficulties, the Alberta government decided to temporarily waive these work experience requirements. For the duration of this measure, workers who are eligible under these streams do not need to meet the usual work experience criteria. The decision aims to help those who may have lost their jobs to quickly find new employment opportunities without being constrained by past requirements.
Open work permits as a solution
In addition to waiving work experience requirements, the AAIP now accepts open work permits issued by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for workers affected by the wildfires. Open work permits allow individuals to work for any employer in Alberta, providing flexibility for those needing to find new jobs after losing their previous positions. This adjustment ensures that workers can continue to live and work in Alberta without having to leave or undergo lengthy permit reapplication processes.
The acceptance of open work permits aligns with Alberta’s goal of maintaining a stable workforce while businesses in the tourism and hospitality sectors recover. Workers can continue contributing to Alberta’s economy, and employers can access a broader pool of potential employees during the recovery period.
Further support for affected individuals
These eligibility changes are part of a broader range of measures that Alberta has implemented to support those affected by the wildfires. The IRCC has also introduced several initiatives to assist individuals who lost vital documents such as citizenship certificates, immigration papers, or travel documents. Those impacted by the fires can replace these documents free of charge, helping them recover their status and maintain eligibility for immigration programs.
Additionally, the government offers the option for workers to extend or restore their temporary resident status. Workers unable to continue with their current employers due to the fires can transition from employer-specific permits to open work permits, providing them the flexibility to find new opportunities without leaving the province.
Maintaining other eligibility criteria
Despite the temporary removal of work experience requirements, all other eligibility criteria for the affected streams remain in place. Applicants must still demonstrate their qualifications, language proficiency, and educational credentials as stipulated by the AAIP guidelines. This ensures that, while the province is flexible in response to extraordinary circumstances, the program maintains its standards to attract and retain skilled and qualified workers.
The Rural Renewal and Express Entry pathways remain unaffected by these changes as they do not have specific work experience requirements. These streams continue to operate under their standard criteria, offering alternative options for workers looking to establish themselves in rural or different parts of Alberta.
Economic recovery
The economic impact of the wildfires extends beyond immediate job loss. Alberta’s tourism sector, which contributes significantly to the province’s GDP, faces a long road to recovery. The fires disrupted operations during the peak tourist season, affecting not only businesses but also the local workforce that relies on this seasonal influx.
The Alberta government has emphasized that these measures are temporary and subject to ongoing review. By offering flexible immigration pathways and responding proactively to the challenges posed by natural disasters, Alberta is demonstrating its commitment to supporting both its workforce and economy. The temporary changes to the AAIP eligibility criteria are an essential part of these efforts, providing relief to those directly impacted while ensuring the province remains attractive to skilled immigrants in the long run.
If you are looking to Study, Work, Visit or Migrate to Canada, talk to I Can Help Immigration Services, at +1 778 239 7861 with RCIC # R413239, Canada’s No.1 Immigration & Visa Company to get the best help you need.
