Maple News reports that on February 10, Alberta invited 200 candidates from Canada’s Express Entry system to apply for a provincial nomination through the Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP). Notably, the minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score required for selection was just 301—making it one of the more accessible draws in recent times.
To receive an invitation, candidates needed to have a valid profile in the Express Entry pool. This federal system manages applications for three skilled worker immigration categories: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class. Eligible applicants are ranked based on CRS scores, which are determined by key human capital factors such as age, education, work experience, and language proficiency in English or French.
What makes this Alberta draw especially valuable is the significant CRS boost that comes with a provincial nomination. If selected by Alberta, candidates receive 600 additional CRS points, virtually guaranteeing an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence in a subsequent federal Express Entry draw.
While Alberta has historically drawn from a broad pool of candidates, current pandemic-related measures mean the province is prioritizing individuals who are already living and working in Alberta. In addition, candidates must have work experience in occupations that align with Alberta’s economic development and diversification goals. The AINP maintains a list of ineligible occupations that are not considered for nomination.
The Alberta Express Entry Stream provides an opportunity for skilled professionals to increase their chances of gaining Canadian permanent residence, especially those already contributing to the province’s economy and labor market. Alberta continues to play a strategic role in Canada’s broader immigration landscape by targeting workers who can support its post-pandemic recovery and long-term growth.
According to Maple News, this draw underscores the ongoing importance of provincial nominee programs in Canada’s immigration system, particularly for those with lower CRS scores who may otherwise struggle to receive a federal ITA.