Updated as per IRCC & Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP)
Prepared by HCFL Immigration – Calgary, Alberta
The International Graduate Entrepreneur Stream (IGES) under the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program
(AAIP) allows international graduates from Alberta post-secondary institutions to apply for Permanent
Residence by establishing or purchasing a business in Alberta. This stream is designed to retain skilled
graduates who contribute to Alberta’s economy through innovation, investment, and job creation.
Who Can Apply
• Graduates from eligible Alberta post-secondary institutions
• Valid Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) holders
• Individuals intending to actively manage a business in Alberta
• Applicants with business ownership or management experience
Eligibility Requirements (Updated)
• Minimum 2 years of full-time education from an approved Alberta institution
• Valid PGWP at the time of Expression of Interest (EOI) submission
• Minimum CLB 7 (English) or NCLC 7 (French) in all four language abilities
• Language test results must be less than 2 years old at EOI submission
• Minimum 6 months of full-time business ownership or management experience

Accepted Language Tests
• IELTS – General Training
• CELPIP – General
• TEF Canada
• TCF Canada
Work Experience Details
• At least 6 months of full-time business ownership or management experience
• Experience can be gained inside or outside Canada
• Experience may be obtained before or after Alberta education
• Education and experience requirements must be met at EOI submission
Factors That Increase Selection Score
• Age between 21 and 49 years
• Close family relatives residing full-time in Alberta
• Strong economic benefit to Alberta (job creation, innovation, investment)
• Business located in rural Alberta
• Spouse or partner with Alberta work, education, or language proficiency
Application Process
• Submit Expression of Interest (EOI) to AAIP
• Receive Invitation to Apply based on EOI ranking
• Submit business application and business plan
• Establish and actively operate the business in Alberta
• Meet Business Performance Agreement conditions
• Receive Provincial Nomination
• Apply for Permanent Residence to IRCC
How HCFL Immigration Can Help
• Eligibility assessment and AAIP strategy planning
• Business concept development and evaluation
• Expression of Interest (EOI) preparation
• Business plan and application submission
• Compliance monitoring until PR approval
HCFL Immigration provides updated, compliant, and professional guidance to help Alberta graduates
successfully transition from study to business ownership and Permanent Residence in Canada.