Maple News reports that the province of Alberta conducted a new Express Entry draw on May 5, issuing invitations to 250 immigration candidates with Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores as low as 300 — the lowest cut-off seen in over 12 months.
While this draw was smaller than Alberta’s highest this year (300 invitations), it marked a significant shift in accessibility, especially for Express Entry candidates with lower scores. According to Alberta’s immigration program, candidates who are selected through the Alberta Express Entry stream and later receive a provincial nomination are granted an additional 600 CRS points. This substantial boost almost guarantees an invitation to apply for permanent residence in a subsequent federal Express Entry draw.
The Alberta Express Entry Stream operates as an enhanced stream under the Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP), sourcing candidates directly from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s (IRCC) Express Entry system. Eligible candidates must first have a valid Express Entry profile before they can be considered for Alberta’s stream.
Express Entry itself is Canada’s flagship application management system for three economic immigration categories: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class. CRS points are awarded based on factors such as age, education, professional experience, and language proficiency in English or French.
Though Express Entry candidates can receive invitations directly through federal draws, those with lower scores often turn to Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) like Alberta’s to increase their chances. A nomination from a province not only adds 600 points to their profile but also aligns their application with specific provincial labor market and economic needs.
What’s unique about Alberta’s program is its strategic focus on candidates who have established ties to the province, such as prior work or education experience, or a valid job offer. The province also prioritizes applications that support its goals of economic diversification and growth.
This latest draw reflects Alberta’s commitment to selecting immigrants who can contribute to its local economy, while also providing a pathway to permanent residence for skilled workers struggling to meet higher CRS thresholds in federal draws.
Maple News will continue monitoring upcoming PNP and Express Entry developments to keep aspiring immigrants informed about their opportunities to settle in Alberta and across Canada.