Maple News reports that Alberta continues to prioritize skilled immigration with five targeted draws held throughout October 2025. Through the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP), the province issued a total of 199 invitations to candidates in high-demand sectors such as technology, healthcare, aviation, and agriculture. The selections were made via both Express Entry-aligned and non-Express Entry pathways, aiming to address persistent workforce challenges across the province.
On October 21, Alberta issued 89 invitations under the Accelerated Tech Pathway, part of the Alberta Express Entry Stream. Candidates with a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 60 were invited, emphasizing the province’s commitment to strengthening its rapidly growing tech sector in Edmonton, Calgary, and other urban centers.
The aviation industry, essential for remote and northern communities, also received targeted support. On October 16, Alberta invited 13 candidates through the Priority Sectors (Aviation) initiative within the Express Entry Stream. The minimum score for this draw was 46, reflecting the ongoing demand for pilots, aviation technicians, and other specialists in air transport services.
In a further effort to strengthen Canada’s food production and rural economy, 10 invitations were issued on October 15 through the Agriculture-focused Priority Sectors stream. The selected candidates, who had CRS scores of at least 67, will help fill critical roles in farming, livestock operations, and agri-business.
Alberta also took significant steps to address healthcare shortages. On October 10, 41 non-Express Entry invitations were issued under the Dedicated Healthcare Pathway, with a minimum score of 45. Just days earlier, on October 8, 46 healthcare professionals from the Express Entry pool were invited with a minimum score of 52, supporting hospitals, long-term care, and clinics across Alberta where staffing challenges remain severe.
These efforts through the AAIP allow Alberta to nominate skilled workers for permanent residency based on sectoral demand. Candidates interested in applying should first ensure they meet the eligibility criteria of the relevant stream. For Express Entry-based pathways, maintaining an up-to-date federal profile is essential. Qualified candidates may receive a Notification of Interest from Alberta before applying, with nominations significantly boosting their chances of receiving permanent residency through the federal system.
The AAIP remains a key mechanism for aligning immigration with economic development. By continuing to invite candidates in targeted occupations, Alberta is not only addressing immediate labor shortages but also building a resilient, future-ready workforce.