Proposed changes to immigration policy by Alberta's Premier are meeting resistance from organizations that support newcomers to the province. Advocates in Calgary argue that a separate, made-in-Alberta immigration system is not required and could foster harmful narratives.
Advocates Label Proposal as 'Divisive Rhetoric'
Premier Danielle Smith recently suggested exploring a provincial immigration policy similar to Quebec's, which would allow Alberta to vet newcomers based on shared language, culture, and economic potential. However, this idea has been criticized by immigrant support groups. Paula Calderon, CEO of the Canadian Immigrant Women's Association, characterized the premier's comments as "divisive rhetoric" that risks fueling anti-immigrant sentiment.
"It feeds into this anti-immigrant sentiment, that they're a problem and not a solution which has proven to be inaccurate," Calderon stated. She expressed concern that such scrutiny unfairly positions immigrants as a burden on society.
Details of the Proposed Provincial System
In discussions with Postmedia in December 2025, Premier Smith outlined potential criteria for a provincial immigration framework. Key elements could include:
- Stringent requirements for financial stability and English language fluency.
- A primary focus on an immigrant's ability to secure employment.
- A minimum number of years of employment before becoming eligible for social benefits, including healthcare and publicly-funded education for children.
Smith pointed to policies in Europe, including those discussed under the United Kingdom's government, as models. "Maybe you don't bring your kids over to be educated in our publicly-funded education system or use our taxpayer-supported child-care system until you have a certain number of years as a taxpayer. You have to pay into the system," she explained.
Federal System Already Adjusting, Say Critics
Advocates counter that the existing federal immigration framework is already undergoing necessary adjustments. Calderon emphasized that gaining legal entry to Canada is not an easy process and noted that Ottawa has recently lowered its immigration quotas while placing a greater emphasis on economic criteria.
"All these immigration classes have always been in place and we will receive economic class immigrants in the future," she said. "Personally, I don't think there's a need for it, the federal government is adjusting."
Calderon also raised practical concerns, questioning how a solo move by Alberta on immigration would impact federal funding for settlement services, especially at a time of high demand and constrained resources. The premier has defended the concept, arguing that provincial control is needed to ensure sustainability, claiming current immigration levels have overwhelmed social programs and pushed public servants to a "breaking point."
The debate highlights a growing tension between provincial autonomy in immigration selection and the existing federal system, with newcomer advocates in Alberta urging caution against what they see as a potentially exclusionary and unnecessary policy shift.
