ATTENTION EMPLOYERS
Effective October 28, 2024 the Town of Olds has extended the temporary hold on its RRS Program. Our Employer Application portal will remain closed for the months of November and December 2024. More details are available below in the RRS Updates section.
The Alberta Advantage Immigration Program - Rural Renewal Stream (RSS) is designed to assist our local Employers address ongoing labour gaps. Please note the Town of Olds will only work with interested Employers. Program guidelines do not permit applications directly from interested workers. Inquiries from interested workers or questions pertaining to information that is available online will not receive a response.
RRS UPDATES:
Employers are responsible to ensure they meet all updated criteria at the time of submission. Partially completed applications are subject to all criteria changes up until the date they are submitted.
Effective October 28, 2024, the following changes have been made to the Olds RRS Program:
Effective October 28, 2024 the Town of Olds extended the hold on its RRS Program to include the months of November and December 2024. Our Employer Application Portal will remain closed until further notice.
RRS Employer Applications will be accepted monthly, during the following dates:
November 2024 Closed
December 2024 Closed
January 2025 (Dates To Be Confirmed)
Effective August 28, 2024, the following changes have been made to the Olds RRS Program:
On August 7th the Province of Alberta announced changes to AAIP that affect the Rural Renewal Stream. “AAIP will launch a new expression of interest system on September 30, 2024. After a candidate submits an expression of interest, they will be placed in a selection pool. AAIP will invite selected candidates from that pool to apply based on candidate ranking and provincial labour needs and priorities. As a result of this new system, AAIP will not proceed with the remaining monthly application acceptance dates for 2024 as the new system will allow for ongoing intake of expression of interests.”
This means AAIP is not accepting applications from RRS candidates until after September 30th. Details regarding this new system are currently very limited. As a result, effective August 28, 2024 the Town of Olds placed a hold on its RRS Program for the months of September and October 2024. Our Employer Application Portal will remain closed until further notice. The Town of Olds must ensure that candidates who receive endorsement letters are in alignment with “provincial labour needs and priorities”, and this cannot be determined until the Province releases more detailed information.
RRS Employer Applications will be accepted monthly, during the following dates:
September Closed
October Closed
November 1 – 7 (To Be Confirmed)
December 3 – 9 (To Be Confirmed)
Note: The Application portal will open at 9:00 am on the first day. The portal will close once four applications are received, or at 4:00 pm on the last day, whichever occurs first.
Effective July 3, 2024, the following changes have been made to the Olds RRS Program:
A maximum of four (4) RRS Employer Applications will be accepted each month.
RRS Employer Applications will be accepted monthly, during the following dates:
July 3 – 9
August 1 – 7
September 4 – 10
October 1 – 7
November 1 – 7
December 3 – 9
Note: The Application portal will open at 9:00am on the first day. The portal will close once four applications are received, or at 4:00pm on the last day, whichever occurs first.
Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) placed a cap on the number of eligible candidates some Employers can support for the RRS Program based on factors that include gross annual revenue, number of full-time employees, and number of years in operation in Alberta.
Details are available at Employer Requirements.
Employers are responsible to ensure they meet the criteria to support their eligible candidate’s application under the AAIP cap.
Employers can recruit a maximum of 25% of their full-time workforce under the Town of Olds RRS Program. Full-time work is defined as a minimum of 30 hours per week.
Introduction:
The Alberta Advantage Immigration Program – Rural Renewal Stream (AAIP-RRS) is designed to support the economic development and growth of rural communities in Alberta. RRS addresses ongoing labor shortages by supporting Employers in the attraction and retention of skilled workers. As a member of the Innisfail Rural Renewal Stream Community Partnership, the Town of Olds is able to assist its local businesses address their ongoing labor demands. Designed for business, the program allows Employers unable to fill job vacancies locally to recruit and hire foreign job seekers and apply for community endorsement. Candidates must possess the necessary skills to address identified job shortages and demonstrate the ability to provide for their families. While direct applications from eligible candidates are not accepted, they are encouraged to speak with local Employers to discuss nomination. The program facilitates long-term settlement and integration into the community, offering candidates the opportunity to apply for permanent residence status along with their families.
By participating in the RRS the Town of Olds demonstrates a strong commitment to addressing labour shortages and ensuring that local businesses have the skilled workforce they need to thrive. Through this initiative, we are dedicated to creating a welcoming environment for newcomers, helping them integrate into our community, and contributing to the overall prosperity of the Town of Olds businesses and residents.
Key Information: Employers
To qualify for the Rural Renewal Stream (RRS), employers must meet the following criteria:
The Employer who is providing a job offer must demonstrate to AAIP’s satisfaction that they meet the criteria outlined on the AAIP website at Employer Requirements.
- The Employer who is providing a job offer must also:
- Possess an active Town of Olds Business Licence.
- Have a clean record with no violations documented by Alberta Health Services in the last 12 months (applies to Restaurant and Food Services only)
- Not have any Occupational Health & Safety complaints in the last 12 months
The job offer or employment contract must be bona-fide, signed, and offer:
- Continuous paid work under an employer-employee relationship
- Full-time work, defined as a minimum of 30 hours per week
- Employment for 12 months or more
- Wages and benefits that meet or exceed the lowest starting wage for your eligible candidate’s occupation across all industries in Alberta
The complete list of job-offer requirements is available on the AAIP website at Job Offer Requirements
The AAIP defines certain occupations and job offers as ineligible for the Rural Renewal Stream. For more information on ineligible job offers visit the AAIP website at Ineligible Applicants Based on Job Offer. A complete list of ineligible occupations is available on the AAIP website at Ineligible Occupations.
Additionally, the Town of Olds will not endorse eligible candidates in the following occupation codes:
- Food Service Supervisors – ALIS 6311/ NOC 62020
- Food and Beverage Servers – ALIS 6513 / NOC 65200
- Food Counter Attendants, Kitchen Helpers and related Support Occupations – ALIS 6711 / NOC 65201.
Due to the high cost of living in the area, the Town of Olds will only endorse candidates who have a job offer with a starting wage of $18.00/hour or more.
Before submitting a RRS Application, Employers hiring to fill a vacant position must advertise an active job posting for a minimum of 60 days on the following platforms:
This ensures an Employer has made a reasonable effort to recruit and hire a Canadian citizen or Permanent Resident locally. As part of the RRS application process, Employers are required to:
- Submit documentation from each of these three posting platforms to confirm the date the job was posted and the total number of candidates that applied.
- Provide the number of candidates interviewed and the reason(s) you did not find the interviewees suitable.
The Town of Olds will only endorse eligible candidates who currently reside in Canada and hold a valid work permit. Employers must submit a copy of their eligible candidate’s work permit as part of the RRS application process.
Note: Employers may still recruit out-of-county for jobs they are unable to fill locally but cannot make application to the Town of Olds RRS Program until their eligible candidate is legally residing in Canada on a valid work permit and meets all the established criteria.
Under no circumstances are Employers or Employment Agencies allowed to charge employees fees for a job or employment offer. All costs incurred for the RRS Program are the sole responsibility of the Employer and cannot be recovered from your eligible candidate. Employers who charge employees fees of any kind will be reported to the Government of Alberta.
Employers are responsible for creating a safe and welcoming environment for candidates. The following resources are available to assist Employers:
- The Employers Roadmap; Hiring & Retaining Internationally Trained Workers
- Attracting and Retaining Immigrants: Employers Guide
A safe and welcoming workplace creates an environment where all employees are valued, included, treated with respect, and reasonably free from physical and psychological danger. A safe and welcoming workplace can be created by:
- Including appropriate onboarding and training, establishing policies and procedures that clearly outline the company’s culture and values, defining performance expectations, and providing equitable opportunities for professional growth and/or advancement.
- Maintaining a work environment that prohibits all forms of harassment, discrimination, and racism by ensuring that effective policies are in place both for reporting and responding to any incidents that may occur.
- Recognizing that newcomers may require additional levels of support upon arrival, such as language or skill building, a community orientation, and/or a mentorship program, which help to set newcomers up for successful integration into the workplace and community.
Key Information: Candidates
The Town of Olds works exclusively with Employers. The RRS Program is designed to assist our local businesses fill ongoing labour gaps. Program guidelines do not allow us to accept applications directly from eligible candidates or anyone seeking employment. It is the Employer who is responsible for submitting the online application on your behalf. Inquiries from candidates, interested workers, or anyone seeking employment will not receive a response.
Candidates are responsible to ensure they review, understand, and meet all the RRS eligibility criteria, including:
- Job offer requirements
- Occupation requirements (licensing, registration and certification)
- Qualifying work experience
- Language requirements
- Education requirements
- Settlement funds
As a candidate it is your responsibility to ensure both you and your Employer meet all eligibility requirements prior to submitting an application to the Town of Olds RRS Program.
The Town of Olds will only endorse eligible candidates who currently reside in Canada and hold a valid work permit. You must provide your Employer with a copy of your work permit as part of the RRS application process.
The Town of Olds does not pre-screen or maintain a list of eligible Employers. It is the Employer’s responsibility to confirm they meet all the eligibility criteria prior to submission of an application on behalf of an eligible candidate. Employer eligibility will be confirmed as part of the 3 to 6 week application review process.
Employers and Employment Agencies cannot charge employees fees for a job or employment offer. If an Employer is charging you a fee of any kind, call the Government of Alberta Information Line at 310-0000 and ask for Employment Standards or the Temporary Foreign Worker Advisory Office.
Application Process
The Town of Olds is a member of the Innisfail Rural Renewal Stream Community Partnership.
- Ensures an employer meets the minimum eligibility criteria to participate in the Town of Olds RRS Program
- Employers who meet the minimum eligibility criteria will receive an email link to Step 2: Employer Application Form.
Notes:
- The Pre-Screening Form is not considered an application. Employers must immediately complete step 2: Employer Application Form.
- Four (4) completed Employer Application Forms will be accepted for review each month.
- Once four (4) completed Employer Application Forms are submitted the application process will be closed and will reopen the following month.
Employers who meet the requirements of the Employer Eligibility Screening Form in Step 1 will receive an email with a link to the RRS Employer Application. This link is intended solely for the designated Employer and is not be shared or forwarded to anyone else.
Note: An RRS Employer Application received from a business that did not complete Step 1 will be not be accepted.
Applications require a 3 to 6-week administrative review period that includes an evaluation by the Town of Olds Rural Renewal Stream Review Committee to issue a recommendation.
The Town of Olds submits recommended applications to the Innisfail Rural Renewal Stream Community Partnership and requests an Endorsement of Candidate letter be issued.
Note: The Innisfail Rural Renewal Stream Community Partnership must support the Town of Olds request for an Endorsement of Candidate letter. The Town cannot issue a letter without Partnership approval.
The Innisfail Rural Renewal Stream Community Partnership and the Town of Olds issue a joint Endorsement of Candidate letter directly to your successful candidate.
Candidate applies for provincial nomination through the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program Rural Renewal Stream.
Resources: Directory for Newcomers
Call: 911
Mountain View Family Resource Network
The Mountain View Family Resource Network serves as a vital community hub in Alberta, Canada, offering essential support and resources to families. Dedicated to enhancing family well-being, the network provides a range of services such as counseling, parenting workshops, and community events. By fostering partnerships and promoting collaboration, the Mountain View Family Resource Network aims to strengthen family resilience and promote positive outcomes for all members of the community.
BGC of Olds & Area
BGC of Olds & Area (formerly known as the Boys and Girls Club) is a cornerstone of community support in Olds, Alberta. Dedicated to youth development, the club provides a safe and inclusive environment where young people can participate in a variety of programs and activities. From educational support to recreational opportunities, BGC of Olds & Area aims to empower youth, build positive relationships, and foster leadership skills, preparing them for a bright future.
Olds Registries
Olds Registries, located in Olds, Alberta, Canada, is a trusted service provider offering a range of essential registry services to the local community. From vehicle registrations and driver’s licenses to vital statistics and corporate registry services, Olds Registry ensures efficient and reliable transactions. With a focus on customer service and compliance with government regulations, Olds Registry serves as a convenient and accessible resource for residents and businesses alike.
Public Institutions
École Olds Elementary School, located in Olds, Alberta, Canada, is a vibrant educational institution known for its commitment to academic excellence and community involvement. Serving students from kindergarten through grade 5, the school offers a supportive learning environment enriched with diverse programs and extracurricular activities. École Olds Elementary School fosters a nurturing atmosphere where students can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally, preparing them for future success.
École Dear Meadow School, situated in Olds, Alberta, Canada, is a cornerstone of educational excellence and community spirit. Catering to students from kindergarten to grade 4, the school provides a nurturing environment where academic achievement and personal growth are prioritized. With a focus on inclusive learning and innovative teaching methods, École Dear Meadow School prepares students for a bright future in a supportive and engaging atmosphere.
École Olds High School
École Olds High School, located in Olds, Alberta, Canada, is a leading institution dedicated to academic achievement and student success. Serving grades 9 to 12, the school offers a comprehensive curriculum enriched with diverse extracurricular opportunities. École Olds High School emphasizes a supportive learning environment where students are encouraged to excel academically, socially, and personally. With a commitment to preparing students for future endeavors, the school fosters a culture of innovation and excellence.
Holy Trinity Catholic School
Holy Trinity Catholic School, located in Olds, Alberta, Canada, is a respected educational institution renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and Catholic values. Serving students from kindergarten to grade 12, the school provides a nurturing environment that promotes spiritual growth, community service, and academic achievement. With a focus on integrating faith-based teachings into everyday learning, Holy Trinity Catholic School prepares students to become responsible and compassionate leaders in society.
Chinooks Edge School Division
Chinooks Edge School Division in central Alberta, Canada, offers quality education to a diverse community. With schools in rural and urban areas, the division focuses on innovative programs that promote student development and success. Chinooks Edge is dedicated to creating a supportive environment that fosters academic achievement and personal growth.
Red Deer Catholic Regional School Division
Red Deer Catholic Regional School Division in central Alberta, Canada, provides comprehensive K-12 education with a focus on academic excellence and Catholic values. It prepares students for success in a supportive community environment, emphasizing both spiritual growth and academic achievement.
Post Secondary Institution
Olds College of Agriculture & Technology
Employment online resources
MV Careers
MV Careers in Mountain View County, Alberta, provides career development and employment support. They offer services like career counseling, job search assistance, and skills training, helping individuals reach their professional goals and connecting them with local employers to boost workforce development.
Indeed
Indeed is a leading global job search platform that connects job seekers with employers. It offers a comprehensive range of tools, including job listings, company reviews, and salary information, to help individuals find the right job. Employers can post jobs, search resumes, and manage their hiring process through Indeed, making it a valuable resource for both job seekers and employers worldwide.
Job Bank
Job Bank is Canada’s national employment service, offering a comprehensive platform for job seekers and employers. It provides job listings, career planning resources, and labor market information to help individuals find employment and make informed career decisions. Employers can post job opportunities and access a wide pool of candidates. Job Bank is a valuable resource for connecting Canadians with employment opportunities and supporting the country’s workforce development.
Career Assistance Network
Career Assistance Network, based in Alberta, Canada, provides personalized career development services to individuals and businesses. They offer career counseling, job search support, skills training, and employer services to help job seekers achieve their career goals and assist employers in finding qualified candidates. Dedicated to empowering the workforce, Career Assistance Network plays a crucial role in fostering economic growth and employment success in the community.
Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) is a community-based program in Alberta, Canada, dedicated to enhancing the well-being of individuals, families, and communities. FCSS provides a variety of preventive social services, including counseling, support programs, and community development initiatives. By focusing on improving quality of life and fostering resilience, FCSS aims to build stronger, more supportive communities throughout the province.
Mountain View Food Bank
Mountain View Food Bank, located in Alberta, Canada, is a vital community resource dedicated to alleviating hunger and food insecurity. It provides essential food assistance to individuals and families in need, ensuring they have access to nutritious meals. Through donations and community support, Mountain View Food Bank plays a crucial role in fostering a compassionate and resilient community.
Call: 211 (Interpretation Available)
Health Link: Call 811 (Interpretation Available)
Alberta Health Card
The Alberta Health Card is an essential identification card for residents of Alberta, Canada, enabling access to publicly funded healthcare services. It serves as proof of eligibility for healthcare coverage under the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). The card is issued by Alberta Health and provides individuals with access to necessary medical services, ensuring they receive healthcare without direct payment at the point of service.
- By mail (6 weeks)
- In-Person (via registries): FRIAR Registries or Airdrie Registry
Find a Family Doctor:
Alberta Find A Doctor
Alberta Find A Doctor is an online resource that helps residents of Alberta, Canada, locate healthcare professionals in their area. The platform provides detailed information about doctors accepting new patients, including their specialties and contact details. By simplifying the process of finding and connecting with healthcare providers, Alberta Find A Doctor ensures that individuals can easily access the medical care they need.
Olds Hospital and Care Centre
Olds Hospital and Care Centre, located in Olds, Alberta, Canada, is a comprehensive healthcare facility providing a wide range of medical services. The center offers acute care, long-term care, emergency services, and various specialized treatments to meet the healthcare needs of the community. With a commitment to high-quality patient care and community health, Olds Hospital and Care Centre plays a vital role in ensuring the well-being of residents in the region.
Peaks to Prairies Primary Care Network
Peaks to Prairies Primary Care Network, based in Alberta, Canada, is dedicated to providing comprehensive primary healthcare services to the community. The network focuses on delivering patient-centered care through a collaborative approach, involving doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. Services include chronic disease management, mental health support, and wellness programs. Peaks to Prairies Primary Care Network aims to enhance overall health outcomes and improve access to quality healthcare for residents in the region.
Housing online resources:
Central Alberta Legal Clinic
The Central Alberta Legal Clinic provides essential legal services and assistance to residents in the Central Alberta region. They offer support in various legal matters including housing issues, employment disputes, family law, and more. The clinic focuses on providing accessible and professional legal advice, helping individuals navigate their legal rights and responsibilities effectively.
Community Legal Clinic
A community legal clinic is a nonprofit organization that offers free or low-cost legal services to individuals who may not otherwise have access to legal assistance. These clinics typically serve residents within a specific geographic area and provide support in various areas of law such as housing, employment, social benefits, and family law. Community legal clinics aim to promote access to justice, advocate for the rights of marginalized individuals, and empower communities through legal education and advocacy.
Olds Municipal Library
The Olds Municipal Library serves as a vibrant hub of knowledge and community engagement in Olds, Alberta, Canada. It offers a diverse collection of books, digital resources, and educational programs for all ages. With its welcoming atmosphere and dedicated staff, the library provides a place for learning, research, and recreational activities. It plays a vital role in promoting literacy, lifelong learning, and cultural enrichment within the local community.
Care for Newcomers – Regional Settlement Practitioner
Care for Newcomers – Regional Settlement Practitioner is a program in Alberta, Canada, dedicated to assisting newcomers in settling into their communities. The program offers personalized support and guidance on various settlement needs such as housing, healthcare, employment, and education. Settlement practitioners work closely with newcomers to provide information, resources, and referrals to help them integrate successfully into Canadian society. They play a crucial role in facilitating the transition and promoting the well-being of newcomers in their new environment.
French- Red Deer Regional ACFA
The French-Red Deer Regional ACFA (Association canadienne-française de l’Alberta) is a community organization committed to promoting and preserving the French language and Francophone culture in the Red Deer region of Alberta, Canada. It provides a range of cultural, educational, and social activities, including language classes, cultural events, and support services for Francophone residents and French language learners. The ACFA plays a vital role in fostering a strong Francophone community and enhancing cultural diversity in the region.
Province of Alberta
The Province of Alberta, Canada, offers the Opportunity Alberta website as a comprehensive resource for immigrants looking to settle and work in the province. The website provides information on immigration programs, job opportunities, living in Alberta, and community resources. It aims to attract skilled workers and entrepreneurs to contribute to Alberta’s economy and community, highlighting the province’s diverse industries, quality of life, and opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Government of Canada
The Government of Canada’s “Find free newcomer services near you” website offers a valuable resource for newcomers to Canada seeking essential settlement services. It provides a searchable directory of free services available across the country, including language training, employment support, housing assistance, and cultural orientation. This platform helps newcomers access the support they need to integrate into Canadian society successfully, fostering community engagement and enhancing their overall settlement experience.
Frequently Asked Questions: RRS Program
Yes. An Employer may nominate a current employee who has been working for their business for a minimum of 60 days in the nominated position. The candidate must hold a valid work permit and meet all the RRS eligibility criteria. Employers will need to submit the original, signed job offer letter to confirm the date of hire. The 60 day job posting criteria is for Employers hiring to fill a vacant position.
No. An AAIP nomination is not an automatic work permit renewal. All AAIP candidates must apply to IRCC for a work permit renewal if their current work permit will expire before their permanent residence application is finalized. Eligible candidates should visit the RRS website to learn about options to extend a work permit.
No. All questions are to be directed through the AAIP website.
