Alberta To Introduce Provincial Immigration Legislation

This Insight was prepared with the assistance of Terri-Lynn Mitchell, an Articling Student in our Saskatoon office.

Earlier this year, Alberta’s Immigration Oversight Act (the “Act”) (formerly Bill 26) received royal assent. It will come into force on proclamation, a date for which is yet to be set. The Act will expand Alberta’s oversight of immigration matters in the province through a new framework requiring employer registration and the licensing of recruiters and immigration consultants. This is similar to legislation already in place in Saskatchewan, British Columbia and Manitoba.

It also sets out a compliance regime, including offences and prohibited practices, applicable to employers, recruiters and consultants. The Act’s stated intention is to increase transparency, strengthen accountability and protect newcomers from exploitation. The Ministry of Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration will be responsible for the Act’s roll-out and administration.