Immigration pathway assists Alberta health care

Strengthening the province's health care system is a top priority for Alberta's government. By attracting experienced international health professionals to the province, critical supports are added to the province's health system so Albertans can access care when and where they need it.

In April 2023, Alberta's government created a Dedicated Health Care Pathway through the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program. This program helps attract international health care professionals to Alberta to help address labour shortages.

Since its launch, the Dedicated Health Care Pathway has successfully nominated 122 health care professionals in 2023, and 258 in the first half of 2024. Nine professions are eligible under this pathway, including doctors, nurses, physiotherapists and psychologists. More than 150 professionals are heading to communities outside Edmonton and Calgary.

"I am proud of the incredible success of the Dedicated Health Care Pathway, and very pleased to see so many experienced health professionals going to areas outside of Calgary and Edmonton. With this program, we are increasing timely access to care for Albertans, no matter where they live."

Muhammad Yaseen, Minister of Immigration and Multiculturalism

The Dedicated Health Care Pathway is designed to attract and retain health care professionals who have received authorization to practice in Alberta and have an Alberta job offer in the health care sector. Once nominated, the individual then applies for permanent residence through the federal government as a provincial nominee.

"We are committed to recruiting and retaining health care workers in Alberta by reducing barriers and improving opportunities for them. Through the Alberta Health Workforce Strategy, programs like the Dedicated Health Care Pathway provide solutions for those who come to work in health care in our province to stay and build a life here. We will continue to plan for the talent required to address Albertans' existing and emerging health care needs."

Adriana LaGrange, Minister of Health

"The Government of Alberta has been responsive to the urgent need for more health care professionals, and we are grateful for the continued support and collaboration. The Dedicated Health Care Pathway has made a significant impact on our ability to attract international applicants to AHS, particularly trained nurses who bring the knowledge and experience that we currently need."

Athana Mentzelopoulos, president and CEO, Alberta Health Services

The Alberta Advantage Immigration Program helps strengthen and grow the province's economy by addressing labour challenges across all sectors, including health care.

Quick facts:

• 2023: Of the 122 health professionals nominated in the pathway, 59 were destined for locations outside Calgary and Edmonton, including 19 physicians and 25 registered nurses.
• 2024: Of the 258 health professionals nominated as of July 2024, 93 were destined for communities outside Calgary and Edmonton, including 14 physicians and 61 registered nurses.

• To be eligible, applicants must have received authorization to practice in Alberta by the relevant regulatory college and have a job offer in Alberta's health care sector.

Related information

• Dedicated Health Care Pathway

Public link

Please use the above public link if you want to share this noodl on another website.