Maple News reports that Alberta has kicked off 2026 with a robust start to its immigration efforts, issuing a total of 1,169 invitations through four separate draws held between January 26 and February 2 under the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP). These early draws span across key streams designed to attract skilled professionals in health care, technology, and other priority sectors.
The largest draw took place on February 2, when the province issued 915 invitations under the Alberta Opportunity Stream. This one draw accounted for nearly 80% of all invitations issued during the week, with a relatively low cut-off score of 57, indicating an inclusive selection process.
On January 29, Alberta conducted an Express Entry-linked draw under the Accelerated Tech Pathway, distributing 148 invitations to candidates with a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 63. This pathway aims to support the province’s growing demand for tech talent.
In a move to address ongoing shortages in the health care sector, Alberta held two draws through its Dedicated Health Care Pathways. The non-Express Entry draw on January 27 issued 43 invitations, with the lowest cut-off score of the week at just 45. Meanwhile, the Express Entry-aligned draw on January 26 invited 63 health professionals with a minimum score of 61.
These invitations form part of Alberta’s 2026 strategy to focus on immigration streams aligned with its labour market needs. According to the AAIP, the province will prioritize candidates in key sectors including health care, technology, construction, manufacturing, aviation, agriculture, and rural communities through the Rural Renewal Stream.
While Alberta’s selection process emphasizes these priority areas, the province has clarified that invitations may also be extended to candidates in other occupations, depending on labour demands and other economic considerations.
It’s worth noting that AAIP draws are not pre-scheduled, and while minimum scores are published, selection can also depend on various factors such as occupation, work experience, and settlement plans in Alberta.
As Alberta continues to make data-driven immigration decisions in early 2026, prospective applicants should pay close attention to evolving trends, particularly in key sectors where demand is rising across the province.