Maple News reports that Alberta has issued 200 invitations to Express Entry candidates through its Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP) on November 9. This draw required a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 343, marking a notable increase from the program’s typical threshold of 300.
The Alberta Express Entry Stream, an enhanced stream under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), allows the province to select candidates from the federal Express Entry pool who demonstrate strong potential to contribute to Alberta’s labor market and economic development. By receiving a provincial nomination, candidates automatically gain an additional 600 CRS points, significantly boosting their chances of receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residence in Canada.
This latest draw highlights Alberta’s continued engagement with the federal Express Entry system, even as the total number of invitations issued in 2021—now at 6,359—has surpassed the annual allotment of 6,250 nomination certificates. Alberta began issuing invitations again in January 2021 after a pause in late 2020. Given that the province is likely nearing its maximum quota, this may be one of the final selection rounds for the year.
Candidates eligible for Express Entry are ranked using the CRS, which considers factors such as age, education, work history, language proficiency in English or French, and other adaptability criteria. While many candidates receive invitations to apply for permanent residence directly from the federal government, those with lower scores may find increased opportunity through a provincial nomination, especially from proactive provinces like Alberta.
For example, applicants who received the minimum required score of 343 in this latest Alberta draw would see their overall CRS score jump to 943 upon nomination—virtually guaranteeing an invitation in the national Express Entry draws.
Maple News continues to monitor provincial nominee trends and federal immigration policies to keep aspiring immigrants updated with the latest information.