On February 13, 2024, the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) unveiled plans for a new Tourism and Hospitality Stream, which is set to launch on March 1, 2024. In 2022, Alberta experienced a notable surge in tourism spending, reaching $10.7 billion—a $600 million increase from 2019. This growth marks a robust recovery from the pandemic-induced downturn and positions the province to surpass previous year-over-year visitor expenditure records. To foster further economic growth, the province is introducing this immigration stream dedicated to attracting skilled professionals to the tourism and hospitality industry. The AAIP will prioritize a select number of applications, aiding businesses in attracting and retaining essential workers, thereby bolstering the economy. Comprehensive details on eligibility and application procedures will be accessible from March 1, 2024. Alberta’s tourism and hospitality sector significantly contributes to economic growth and job creation, particularly in rural areas and communities outside major urban centers.
