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At a glance

Quick facts

Minimum investment CA$500,000; Typical timeline 18 months; 3 highlights

Minimum investment
CA$500,000
Currency: CAD
Typical timeline
From application start
Highlights
  • Canada
  • Alberta
  • Self-Employed Farmer
~10 sec

Quick eligibility check

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1Question 1 of 2 Do you have at least 3 years of full-time farm management experience?
2Question 2 of 2 Can you invest at least $500,000 CAD in a farming business?

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Program overview

The Alberta Self-Employed Farmer Stream under the Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP) offers experienced farmers the opportunity to own and operate a profitable agricultural business in Alberta.
This stream provides a direct pathway to Canadian Permanent Residency (PR) for individuals who demonstrate strong farming experience, financial capacity, and a viable business plan that supports Alberta’s agricultural development.

Applicants must propose a primary production farming business, such as livestock, crop, dairy, or mixed farming, and invest a minimum of $500,000 CAD. Successful candidates can operate their farm under a temporary work permit before receiving a nomination for PR.

Investment overview

Applicants must invest at least $500,000 CAD in a primary production farm located in Alberta. The investment can be used for purchasing land, livestock, equipment, or starting new operations.
Applicants must also demonstrate a net worth of at least $500,000 CAD, verified by documents and/or a letter from a Canadian financial institution.
A detailed Farm Business Plan outlining operations, profitability, and market contribution is mandatory.

Costs & proof of funds

Costs & funds

Program fees & proof of funds

Fees listed: 4 line items. Estimated totals: CA$1,000,000 (CAD). Proof of funds items: 1.

Estimated program totals
CAD: CA$1,000,000
Required proof of funds
CAD: CA$500,000

Detailed fee table

Program fee breakdown with price, timing and notes.
ItemPriceWhenNotes
Minimum Business InvestmentCA$500,000At the time of establishing or purchasing the farm

Investment must be in a primary production farming business in Alberta.

Net Worth RequirementCA$500,000Before submitting the application

Applicant must show verified assets to start and operate the farm.

Government Application FeeCA$0At the time of submission

No provincial government fee is charged by Alberta.

Language Requirement (Recommended)CA$0During eligibility assessment

Minimum CLB 5 in English or French is recommended for applicants.

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Proof of funds

  • Proof of Net WorthCA$500,000

    Documented financial capacity or letter from a Canadian financial institution.

Required (CAD): CA$500,000

Figures are indicative and may change with family size, project selection and program updates.

Eligibility

  • Proven experience in farm management or ownership.
  • Minimum investment of CAD 500,000 in a primary production farm.
  • Net worth of at least CAD 500,000 verified through documentation.
  • Approved farm business plan from Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation.
  • Letter of financial support from a Canadian institution.

Key benefits

  • Pathway to Canadian Permanent Residency through farm ownership in Alberta.
  • Best suited for experienced farmers and agri-entrepreneurs.
  • No provincial deposit or extra government fees.
  • Access Alberta’s strong agriculture sector and market network.
  • Eligible family members can live, work, and study in Canada.

Application process

Process

How it works

  1. Step 1: Step 1 – Prepare Your Farm Business Plan

    Develop a comprehensive farm business plan showcasing investment strategy, operations, and profitability potential.

    GuidedAvg. 2–4 weeks
  2. Step 2: Step 2 – Submit Application to Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation

    Mail your complete application package, including business plan and proof of funds.

    GuidedAvg. 2–4 weeks
  3. Step 3: Step 3 – Attend Interview (if required)

    Discuss your proposed farm and experience with Alberta officials.

    GuidedAvg. 2–4 weeks
  4. Step 4: Step 4 – Receive Nomination Recommendation

    Once approved, Alberta issues a nomination recommendation for PR.

    GuidedAvg. 2–4 weeks
  5. Step 5: Step 5 – Apply for Temporary Work Permit

    Begin farm operations in Alberta under a work permit.

    GuidedAvg. 2–4 weeks
  6. Step 6: Step 6 – Apply for Permanent Residency

    After nomination, submit your PR application to IRCC for final approval.

    GuidedAvg. 2–4 weeks

Who this program is NOT for

  • Lack of proven farm management experience.
  • Unverifiable financial resources or incomplete documents.
  • Non-agricultural or passive investment proposals.

Not a match? Explore other programs in Canada.

Frequently asked questions

Eligible farms include crop, livestock, dairy, poultry, and mixed agricultural operations focused on primary production.

No, Alberta does not charge a government processing fee for this stream.

Yes, your spouse and dependent children can live, work, and study in Canada.

Yes, applicants must reside in Alberta and actively manage their farm business.

Applicants typically operate their farm under a work permit before being nominated for PR.
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