Hey there, future Alberta resident! If you’ve been offered a full-time job in one of Alberta’s designated communities and have that coveted Endorsement of Candidate Letter in hand, you’re in for an exciting journey. In this blog, we’ll demystify the Alberta Rural Renewal Stream, a program tailored for individuals with job offers from employers in these designated communities. We’ll explore how it works, how it can benefit you, and what it takes to qualify.
What is the Alberta Rural Renewal Stream
The Alberta Rural Renewal Stream is a specialized component of the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP). It’s designed to attract talented individuals to designated rural communities in Alberta. This stream is an excellent opportunity to not only build a career but also become an integral part of a tight-knit community.
Let’s dive into the two-phase process that paves the way for your Alberta dream.
Phase 1: Job Offer from an Employer and Community Endorsement
The community plays an active role in this process, where they scout for newcomers to address labor shortages and furnish a letter of approval for the selected candidate.
List of Designated Communities:
As of September 7, 2023, here are the designated communities:
| Communities | Date |
|---|---|
|
City of Brooks (including: Town of Bassano, Village of Duchess, County of Newell, Village of Rosemary) |
May 13, 2022 |
|
City of Grande Prairie |
July 6, 2022 |
|
Town of Whitecourt |
July 20, 2022 |
|
Town of Taber (including: Municipal District of Taber, Town of Vauxhall, Town of Coaldale, Town of Picture Butte, Lethbridge County) |
July 20, 2022 |
|
Town of Innisfail (including: Town of Olds, Town of Bowden) |
September 9, 2022 |
|
Municipal District of Smoky River (including: Town of Falher, Village of Donnelly, Village of Girouxville) |
September 9, 2022 |
|
County of Grande Prairie (including: Town of Sexsmith, Town of Wembley, Town of Beaverlodge) |
September 9, 2022 |
|
Town of Trochu (including: Village of Acme, Town of Three Hills) |
September 9, 2022 |
|
Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo |
September 9, 2022 |
|
Municipality of Jasper |
September 13, 2022 |
|
Town of Edson |
November 8, 2022 |
|
County of Barrhead (including: Town of Barrhead) |
November 8, 2022 |
|
Town of Hinton |
November 8, 2022 |
|
Town of Fairview (including: Village of Hines Creek) |
January 13, 2023 |
|
City of Medicine Hat (including: County of Forty Mile, Cypress County, Town of Bow Island, Town of Redcliff) |
January 13, 2023 |
|
Town of Fox Creek |
February 13, 2023 |
|
City of Cold Lake |
March 10, 2023 |
|
County of St. Paul (including: Town of St Paul, Town of Elk Point, Summer Village of Horseshoe Bay) |
March 10, 2023 |
|
Town of Drayton Valley |
March 10, 2023 |
|
Athabasca County (including: Town of Athabasca, Village of Boyle) |
March 10, 2023 |
|
Town of Slave Lake (including: Sawridge First Nation, Municipal District of Lesser Slave River) |
March 10, 2023 |
|
City of Lloydminster |
March 29, 2023 |
|
City of Lethbridge |
March 29, 2023 |
|
Town of Westlock |
March 29, 2023 |
|
Municipal District of Greenview No.16 (including: The Town of Valleyview) |
March 29, 2023 |
|
Town of Peace River |
June 14, 2023 |
|
Town of Sylvan Lake |
June 14, 2023 |
|
City of Wetaskiwin |
August 2, 2023 |
|
Special Areas 2, 3, 4 (including: Town of Hanna, Town of Oyen, Village of Consort, Village of Empress, Village of Veteran, Village of Youngstown, Municipal District of Acadia No. 34) |
August 2, 2023 |
Phase 2: AAIP Application: The identified candidate then presents their application to the AAIP.
With your Endorsement of Candidate Letter secured, it’s time to submit your Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) application. This step solidifies your path to Alberta.
Find Out If You Are Eligible for Alberta Rural Renewal Stream
Before you dive in, it’s crucial to ensure you meet the program’s eligibility criteria. Here’s what you need to check:
Community Residency Requirement: At the time of application and assessment, you must intend to reside and work in your designated Alberta community.
Community Endorsement Requirement: You must possess a valid Endorsement of Candidate Letter from the Economic Development Organization (EDO) of your designated rural community in Alberta.
Job Requirements: You must have a bona fide full-time job offer or employment contract from an Alberta employer. The job should offer continuous, paid work, comprising a minimum of 30 hours per week, for at least 12 months. Wages and benefits must meet or exceed the lowest starting wage for your occupation in Alberta.
Licensing, Registration, and Certification: Ensure you possess the required licensing, registration, or certification for your occupation in Alberta.
Occupation: Most occupations under NOC TEER categories 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 are eligible under the AAIP.
Qualifying Work Experience: Temporary foreign workers should have a minimum of 12 months of full-time work experience in an eligible occupation within the last 18 months prior to application. EMPP refugee applicants require 12 months of full-time work experience in an eligible occupation within the last 10 years prior to application.
Language: Showcase language prowess in English or French as per NOC levels:
- NOC 0, 1, 2, 3: Achieve a minimum CLB/NCLC score of 5 for each skill.
- NOC 4, 5: Secure a minimum CLB/NCLC score of 4 for each skill.
Education: You must have completed at least a high school education equivalent to the Canadian standard or possess a foreign degree, diploma, or certificate.
Settlement Fund: Temporary foreign workers must meet settlement fund requirements.
| Family Members | Less Than 1,000 Population | 10,000 to 30,000 Population | 30,000 to 99,000 Population |
|---|---|---|---|
|
1 |
$8,992 |
$10,151 |
$11,093 |
|
2 |
$11,107 |
$12,636 |
$13,810 |
|
3 |
$13,655 |
$15,534 |
$16,977 |
|
4 |
$16,579 |
$18,861 |
$20,613 |
|
5 |
$18,803 |
$21,392 |
$23,379 |
|
6 |
$21,208 |
$24,127 |
$26,367 |
|
7 |
$23,611 |
$26,861 |
$29,356 |
|
Amount for each additional family member |
$2,404 |
$2,735 |
$2,989 |
How Alberta Rural Renewal Stream Can Help You Settle in Alberta
Now that you understand the process let’s explore how the Alberta Rural Renewal Stream can be a game-changer for your journey to Alberta:
Community Connection: One of the most significant advantages of this stream is the strong connection it fosters between you and your designated community. You’re not just moving for a job; you’re joining a community that values your contributions.
Welcoming Environment: Rural communities in Alberta often have a warm and welcoming atmosphere. You’ll find people who are eager to help you integrate into the community.
Lower Living Costs: Rural areas typically offer a lower cost of living compared to major cities. This means your earnings can go further, allowing you to save, invest, and enjoy a higher quality of life.
Quality of Life: Alberta’s rural communities boast breathtaking natural landscapes and recreational opportunities. Whether you’re into hiking, fishing, or simply enjoying the great outdoors, Alberta has something for everyone.
How Chitra & Associates Immigration Consultants Can Help
Embarking on your Alberta journey may seem daunting, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Chitra & Associates Immigration Consultants are here to guide you every step of the way. From evaluating your eligibility to preparing your application, our team of experts has the knowledge and experience to ensure your success.
Conclusion
The Alberta Rural Renewal Stream is your golden ticket to making Alberta your new home. With the right qualifications, support, and determination, your Alberta adventure awaits. So, embrace the opportunity, prepare your application, and get ready for a life full of promise and adventure in Alberta’s picturesque rural communities. Your future starts here!
