Alberta Rolls Out 5 Major Immigration Changes in March & April 2025!

Alberta Advantage Immigration Pilot- River with arch bridge, red church spire, and green forests under a cloudy blue sky. Urban buildings in background, serene atmosphere.

Alberta is making big moves in the immigration space, and if you're planning to make this vibrant province your new home, these changes to the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) are essential to know.

From language tests to program closures, Alberta is adapting its strategy to better align with provincial needs — and you need to be ready.

Here are the 5 key updates you should know:

1. PTE Core Now Accepted Across All Streams

As of April 1, 2025, Alberta now accepts the Pearson Test of English (PTE) Core for all immigration streams under AAIP. Why does this matter? PTE Core offers faster results, flexible scheduling, and real-world English testing that many applicants find more accessible than other standardized tests.

Tip: Book your PTE Core early if you're planning to apply soon!

2. Application Fees Increased to $1,500

Also starting April 1, the application fee for worker stream applicants has increased to $1,500 CAD.While this may feel like a pinch, remember—provincial programs are investing in faster processing and more strategic immigration planning.

Budget accordingly and consider this a long-term investment in your future.

3. Express Entry Profile Updates Made Easier

Worried about your Express Entry profile expiring mid-process? Alberta introduced a helpful update—you can now refresh or update your Express Entry profile without restarting the entire application.

It’s a small tweak with a big impact for applicants in limbo.

4. Alberta Opts Out of Federal Fast-Track Work Permit Policy

In a surprising but strategic move, Alberta has chosen not to participate in the federal government's fast-track work permit pilot in 2025.Instead, the province will focus on tailoring work permits and immigration pathways to meet its local labour market needs.

This shift highlights Alberta’s independent direction and priority on long-term economic alignment.

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5. Closure of the Family Connection + Occupation in Demand Pathway

The Family Connection + Occupation in Demand pathway under Alberta’s Express Entry stream has officially closed.This program allowed applicants with relatives in Alberta to boost their chances—however, Alberta has retired the stream to make room for other priority areas.

Good news? You can still earn points for family ties through Alberta’s Expression of Interest (EOI) system.

What This Means for You

These aren’t just small policy updates — they represent a strategic shift in how Alberta attracts and retains talent.

Whether you're a:

Skilled worker
International graduate
Entrepreneur
Or someone with family ties in Alberta…these changes could seriously impact your path to permanent residence.

Action Tips

Book your PTE Core early.
Plan for the new application fees.
Keep your Express Entry profile up to date.
Re-evaluate your eligibility if you were counting on the Family Connection pathway.

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