All newcomers are welcome in Calgary

Immigrate to Calgary as a skilled worker

Express entry is an option for skilled immigrants who want to settle in Canada permanently and work in our economy – where there are limitless opportunities.

There are three immigration programs managed through Express Entry. If you’re eligible for one of the programs, you can also apply through Express Entry for the Provincial Nominee Program. In Alberta, the program is called the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program. If you’re nominated, you’ll receive extra points that will help your application go quicker.

Immigrate to Calgary as a business owner or entrepreneur

If you are an entrepreneur or visionary, the Start-up Visa Program is an option if you plan to start a business and create jobs in Canada.

To be eligible for a start-up visa, you must have a qualifying business, a letter of support from a designated organization, meet the language requirements and bring enough money to settle.

Immigrate through the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP)

If you are a skilled refugee, the EMPP helps you immigrate to Canada through existing programs. The program combines refugee resettlement and economic migration.

Before you apply for the EMPP, you need to apply through the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program - the Provincial Nominee Program.

Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP)

The AAIP is the corresponding Provincial Nominee Program for newcomers interested in settling in Calgary, Alberta. Provincial Nominee Programs are designed to support and expedite eligible applications for immigration.

If you are interested in settling in Calgary, the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program nominates people for permanent residence in Alberta. Nominees must have the skills to fill job shortages or be planning to buy or start a business in the province. Explore the eight immigration streams to find which is the best fit for you.

Calgary is the perfect place to live, work and play. But before you do, you may need support settling in. We have advice on how to find schools, find a doctor and get around town.

As you get settled, you will need to navigate services in Calgary. The CLIP Newcomer Guide provides an overview of services – children programs, education, employment, food security, health care, housing, language, law, LGBTQ2+, financial and senior services – available in Calgary.