Immigrating to Alberta

After you are nominated

If you have received an approval package from the Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP) containing your nomination documents, this section is for you. If you have an authorized representative you will not receive a nomination package as the nomination letter is sent directly to your representative.

This section will tell you what to do after you are nominated by the AINP.

Apply for your permanent residence to Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC)
While you wait for a decision from CIC

Apply for your permanent residence to CIC

Your AINP Nomination is valid for six months. Your application must arrive at the CIC visa post before your nomination expires. CIC is responsible for granting you permanent residence. The following steps will help you prepare your application to CIC:
  1. Review your nomination package from the AINP. Your nomination document will tell you what CIC visa office you must apply to. It also contains important information about your nomination. Read it carefully. If there are any mistakes on your nomination you need to contact us.

  2. The CIC Visa Office Specific Instructions included in your nomination package will tell you everything you must send to the visa office. As a Provincial Nominee you must include only the documents in the “P” column of the guide.

  3. Review your CIC forms and make any necessary updates and changes. Your CIC forms must be filled out completely. Do not leave any gaps in your timelines on your Schedule 1 Form. Use the “Tip Sheet” in your nomination package to review the information that is most often missed.

  4. Submit your complete application to CIC. Include:
    • your original AINP Nomination (keep a photocopy for your records)
    • your completed CIC forms
    • all other required documents and fees listed in the “P” column of the CIC guide
    If your forms are not complete or you do not include all required documents, CIC will return your application to you.

  5. CIC will send you a file number after they receive your application and CIC will tell you the next steps. CIC will conduct health, criminal, and security checks on you and your dependants. Visit the CIC website to see how long your CIC application may take to process.

  6. You and your dependants will become Permanent Residents (PR) of Canada if you all pass the health, criminal, and security checks.

  7. You must notify the AINP as soon as you have become a permanent resident. You must also notify the AINP of any changes to your contact information by facsimile at  (780) 427-6560.

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While you wait for a decision from CIC

While you wait for CIC to process your Application for Permanent Residence, don’t forget the following:

  1. If your address, email or phone number changes contact the AINP. Download the contact information form and fax it to the AINP at (780) 427-6560.

  2. Search for a job in Alberta if you don’t already have one. If you were nominated under the Family Stream or the Strategic Recruitment Stream, visit the Working in Alberta section of our website for information on searching for a job in Alberta.

  3. If you are working in Alberta, your work permit must not expire. If your work permit expires before CIC makes a decision on your application for permanent residence, you must apply to CIC for a work permit renewal.

  4. If you were nominated under the Employer-Driven Stream and there are any changes to your job in Alberta, such as working less or more hours, being laid off or working for a new employer, contact us.

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Date Updated: Jul 23, 2010
RDP-962