Alberta, Canada Launched New Tourism & Hospitality Candidates
Tourism and Hospitality stream
Who qualifies?
The eligibility criteria for applying to AAIP’s Tourism and Hospitality stream are as follows:
- A minimum of six months of work experience in a relevant industry is required.
- A full-time, non-seasonal job offer from an Alberta employer within the industry is mandatory.
- Residency in Alberta is a prerequisite.
Additional information detailing the eligibility requirements and application process will be disclosed when AAIP begins accepting applications on March 1, 2024.
Explosive Growth in Alberta’s Tourism and Hospitality Sector
Statements from Canadian Officials:
Muhammad Yaseen, Minister of Immigration and Multiculturalism:
“The future of Alberta’s visitor economy relies on a robust tourism and hospitality sector that can meet the growing demands of visitors across the province. This new stream directly addresses the industry’s persistent labor shortages, responding to concerns voiced by stakeholders.”
Darren Reeder, President and Chief Executive Officer, Tourism Industry Association of Alberta:
“Alberta’s tourism and hospitality sector plays a vital role in employment and economic well-being. The government’s commitment to more than doubling the value of Alberta’s visitor economy underscores the significance of the new Tourism Hospitality Stream in developing a year-round tourism workforce. This will contribute to the creation of new tourism products and services that align with the preferences of global travelers.”
Joseph Schow, Minister of Tourism and Sport:
“The tourism and hospitality immigration stream will unlock opportunities across the province, attracting skilled workers to well-paying jobs that support their families. As Alberta’s visitor economy flourishes, it is crucial to equip our tourism and destination operators with the workforce necessary for success.”
Tracy Douglas-Blowers, President and Chief Executive Officer, Alberta Hotel & Lodging Association:
“The AHLA welcomes the establishment of a dedicated immigration stream for Alberta’s tourism and hospitality industry. While Canadians respond to Alberta’s call, our member hotels continue to face acute labor shortages. This stream will aid hotels in attracting and retaining skilled staff, enhancing the guest experience, and strengthening the provincial tourism economy.”
Mark von Schellwitz, Vice-President, Western Canada, Restaurants Canada:
“Alberta’s restaurants, facing a job vacancy rate of nine percent—double the provincial average—have struggled with labor shortages hindering post-pandemic recovery. We express gratitude to the Alberta government for addressing these concerns through the dedicated Tourism and Hospitality Stream, providing crucial support to revitalize restaurants and access the labor needed for thriving communities.
Immigration Routes to Canada
For those aspiring to settle in Alberta, seeking a Canada PR visa from India is possible through the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP).
If you are a skilled worker, Alberta presents the following pathways:
- Alberta Opportunity Stream
- Alberta Express Entry Stream
- Rural Renewal Stream
Entrepreneurs have their options as well, with streams like:
- Rural Entrepreneur Stream
- Graduate Entrepreneur Stream
- Farm Stream
- Foreign Graduate Entrepreneur Stream
Keep in mind that each of these streams has distinct eligibility criteria, application processes, and requirements. Ensure to review these details before initiating your application.
Alberta boasts 11% of Canada’s tourism-related businesses.
In 2023, AAIP facilitated the arrival of 9,750 newcomers to Alberta. The new federal Immigration Levels Plan 2024-2026 aims to welcome 110,000 newcomers through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) by the end of 2024.
You could be among them!
