On August 23, 2010, the Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (“AINP”) announced that, in response to current job market conditions, it is no longer accepting applications for two immigration streams. Effective immediately, the AINP will not accept new applications in the Family Stream and the U.S. Visa Holder Category. This change is temporary but will be effective until further notice.

“Our focus needs to be on jobs for Albertans and Canadians first,” said Thomas Lukaszuk, Minister of Employment and Immigration. “We will continue to process applications for people who have the skills our growing economy needs.”

The federal government limits the number of people Alberta can nominate for permanent residence. In 2010 Alberta is allowed to nominate 5,000 people. With limited numbers, Alberta’s focus will be on nominating people who currently work in permanent jobs and those who have job offers in occupations that are in demand in Alberta.

The official news release appears here.