Maple News reports that Alberta’s latest Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw took place on July 14, with the province inviting 181 Express Entry candidates through the Alberta Express Entry Stream. The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score needed for this round was 301 — one of the lowest thresholds seen this year, making it a notable opportunity for prospective immigrants.
This draw continues Alberta’s steady immigration activity in 2021. Since resuming draws in January after a pause during the latter part of 2020, the Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP) has now issued a total of 2,613 invitations to Express Entry candidates. The province is authorized to grant up to 6,250 nomination certificates in 2021.
Compared to Alberta’s previous draw in June, this round saw a higher number of invitations and a slightly lower CRS requirement. This trend may offer renewed hope for candidates who might not meet the federal draw cut-offs but demonstrate strong potential through provincial nomination.
The Alberta Express Entry Stream enables the province to search the federal Express Entry pool for promising candidates who align with Alberta’s labor market needs and have the potential to contribute to its economy. Candidates selected in this stream will receive a Notification of Interest (NOI) letter and may then apply for a provincial nomination.
Express Entry is the federal system used to manage applications for three key skilled immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class, and Federal Skilled Trades Program. Applicants are ranked based on CRS points, which factor in age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and other adaptability components.
While it’s possible to receive an invitation to apply for permanent residence through Express Entry without a provincial nomination, obtaining a PNP significantly boosts an applicant’s chances. Provincial nominees receive an additional 600 CRS points, potentially raising their total score above 900 — well above recent federal draw cut-offs.
With Alberta’s relatively low qualifying CRS score in this round and its proactive approach to selecting candidates with strong ties to the province or in-demand skills, those looking to enhance their Express Entry profiles may find strong opportunities through this stream.
Maple News will continue to monitor updates from Alberta and other provinces as they issue invitations under their respective PNPs, following Canada’s broader immigration targets for 2021 and beyond.