Alberta Rural Entrepreneur Stream

Am I eligible?

You're wondering, "Am I eligible?" for Alberta's Entrepreneur Stream (non-farm, nor graduate), here's a breakdown. To qualify, you'll need specific criteria under your belt. From work experience to education, language proficiency, financial prerequisites, and even creating jobs, it's a comprehensive package. Let's delve into the essentials that make you a potential candidate for this exciting opportunity!

• Work Experience: Either 3 years as an active business owner/manager or 4 years as a senior manager in the last 10 years.

• Education: High school equivalent with an Education Credential Assessment (ECA).

• Language Proficiency: CLB 4 for English or NCLC 4 for French in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Valid tests include CELPIP, IELTS, TEF Canada, and TCF Canada. Check IRCC for test equivalency.

• Financial Eligibility: A net worth of $300,000 and a minimum investment of $100,000 in equity.

• Business Establishment: Ownership requirements vary based on new business (51% ownership) or succession (100% ownership). Job creation is mandatory for new businesses but not for succession.

• Job Creation: New businesses need to create at least one full-time job for Canadian citizens or permanent residents for at least 6 months.

• Community Support: A Community Support Letter from a participating rural Alberta community is required.

• Additional Information: The AAIP website lists designated ECA organizations, ineligible businesses, and resources for starting a business in Alberta.

What is the procedure if I am eligible?

Once eligibility is confirmed, the roadmap to your Alberta entrepreneurial journey unfolds. Start with an exploratory visit, in-person or via video, to assess your fit in a rural Alberta community. Research markets, connect with locals, and document these interactions for the Exploratory Visit Report. Share your Business Proposal Summary, aiming for community endorsement via a Community Support Letter.

Next, submit your Expression of Interest (EOI) to the AAIP. The AAIP evaluates EOIs alongside key documents and awards points based on the Rural Entrepreneur Stream Points Grid. High-ranking candidates may be asked for a Business Application, evaluated against criteria with possible follow-ups for more info.

For entrepreneurs with established rural Alberta businesses, demonstrate alignment with the Points Grid criteria. Businesses must have operated for at least a year before EOI submission, and a Community Support Letter is mandatory.

Successful EOIs undergo scoring and potential selection for a Business Application. Established business owners skip an additional one-year operation requirement post-AAIP application. If nominated, maintain operations while navigating the permanent residence application with IRCC, seeking guidance for post-nomination steps.

Eligible business and ineligible business

Eligible Businesses

Ensure your proposed business aligns with criteria for eligible businesses, as failure to meet these could lead to a declined EOI or Business Application. Eligible businesses must:

• Aim for active or earned income, not passive, through goods or service sales.

• Adhere to federal, provincial, and municipal laws and licensing requirements.

• Comply with Alberta trade certification if applicable.

• Maintain a physical presence in a rural Alberta community.

• Fulfill ownership and residency criteria for new or established businesses.

Ineligible Businesses

Businesses falling into the following categories are deemed ineligible:

• Businesses in violation of immigration laws or involving passive investment.

• Ventures lacking significant economic contributions.

• Passive investment or property rental businesses.

• Seasonal, home-based, or certain succession plan-related businesses.

• Businesses associated with explicit or disreputable services, per AAIP determination.

Our role in your application

As your immigration consultant,  here is how we ensure your success every step of the way:

1. Eligibility Clarity: You want reassurance that you meet AAIP criteria. We'll thoroughly assess your profile, leaving no stone unturned to confirm your eligibility, setting a solid foundation for your application.

2. Strategic Direction: You seek guidance for a successful exploratory visit. We'll plan it meticulously, helping you connect effectively and compile a standout Exploratory Visit Report that showcases your potential.

3. Documental Excellence: You want peace of mind regarding your application documents. We'll assist in preparing every document meticulously, ensuring accuracy and alignment with AAIP standards.

4. Crafting Your Proposal: Your business idea needs to shine. We'll collaborate to present it persuasively, aiming for community endorsement and solid support.

5. Point Optimization: You aim for a strong point score. We'll strategize to maximize your points within the Rural Entrepreneur Stream Points Grid, boosting your chances for a Business Application.

6. Application Support: Submitting is just the start. We're here to follow up, clarify doubts, and provide additional information as needed to AAIP officers.

7. Continuous Guidance: Post-nomination, our support continues. We'll guide you through the permanent residence process, ensuring business operations are on track as you move towards residency.

With specialized expertise in the intricacies of the Alberta Advantage Nominee Program (AAIP), we excel in navigating its complexities to ensure the seamless progression of your application. Our approach revolves around tailored assistance, recognizing that every journey is unique; we offer personalized guidance, catering to your specific needs at every phase. Reach out today, and let's embark on a conversation to shape your future in Alberta.