The AAIP site announced on Tuesday, February 13, 2024, the unveiling of
a new PNP stream set to go live on March 1, 2024. However, due to overwhelming
demand, the new tourism & hospitality stream, which initially accepted 500
applicants, reached its capacity by the next business day. Subsequently, on
Friday, March 1, AAIP announced it would accept an additional 100 applications
in a subsequent stage after the initial 500.
As
of Monday, March 4, the stream remains closed for new intakes until the current
applications are processed, with the remaining spots expected to be filled
rapidly.
The
new stream is designed to expedite processing, likely in response to labor
shortages in the tourism and hospitality sectors, particularly in preparation
for the upcoming summer peak season.
Eligibility
criteria for the stream were disclosed on March 1, 2024, revealing that only
individuals already employed full-time in Alberta for over 6 months within the
Tourism and Hospitality sector, holding an employer-specific, LMIA-based work
permit and a job offer from that employer, would qualify. The fine print
stipulates that the employer must belong to an eligible industry as defined by
the Workers Compensation Board industry code or be exempt from WCB coverage but
a member of an eligible sector association.
Applicants
must demonstrate 6 months of relevant work experience and possess an
LMIA-supported job offer in one of the specified 18 occupations within the
sector. These occupations range from program leaders and instructors in
recreation, sport, and fitness to various roles in food service, accommodation,
and facility management.
