11/26/2025
AAIP: Rural Entrepreneur Stream
This program is intended for foreign entrepreneurs and businesspeople who wish to start or acquire a business in designated rural communities in Alberta, with the goal of obtaining Canadian permanent residency through investment.
The eligibility for Rural Entrepreneur Stream
Work Experience (within the last 10 years):
Have a minimum 3 years of experience as business owner or a minimum of 4 years of experience as a senior manager.
Education:
have completed high school and must provide proof that their foreign education is equivalent to a Canadian high school diploma through an Education Credential Assessment (ECA).
Language:
A minimum of CLB level 4 in each reading, writing, listening and speaking.
Net Worth:
A minimum net worth of $300,000 is required. All assets must be personally owned by the candidate or their spouse, or common-law partners.
Business Minimum Investment:
A minimum investment of $100,000 from the candidate’s own equity (and/or that of their spouse or common-law partner). Higher investment amounts will earn additional points.
Business Ownership:
For new business, the candidate must own at least 51% and their business partner must be Canadian citizens or permanent residents. Or for existing business, the candidate must have 100% ownership with the candidate assuming full control of the business.
Job Creation:
New business must create 1 full-time job for Canadian citizens or permanent residents (excluding relatives). Additional job creation will result in more points. These jobs must be maintained for a minimum of 6 months.
Existing business does not require job creation.
Community Support Letter:
Applicants must secure a Community Support Letter from the community they have selected.
