Alberta conducted six draws under the AAIP

Alberta has undertaken a series of six draws under its newly established Expression of Interest system, part of the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program. This initiative has resulted in 1,189 invitations across various categories, strategically focused on meeting the province's labour market requirements.

The first of these draws occurred on November 8, 2024, aimed at law enforcement professionals under the Alberta Express Entry Stream. Candidates required a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 300 or higher, CLB scores of 6 or above, and a job offer from employers affiliated with the Alberta Association of Chiefs of Police (AACP). Only four invitations were issued, with a minimum score set at 41. This specialized draw highlights Alberta’s targeted approach in addressing specific needs in law enforcement, prioritizing quality candidates for niche roles.

Following this, on November 14, 2024, Alberta hosted another draw within the Alberta Express Entry Stream, focusing on construction sector occupations. This draw targeted candidates with Express Entry profiles scoring 300+ CRS points and required a CLB score of 5 or higher, along with a job offer in Alberta. A total of 150 invitations were issued, with a minimum score set at 50. This effort underscores Alberta's ongoing demand for skilled workers in the construction industry, ensuring a streamlined immigration process for qualified individuals.

On November 15, 2024, the Tourism and Hospitality Stream was activated, concentrating on workers holding LMIA-based work permits in eligible tourism and hospitality jobs. The minimum requirements included a CLB score of 4 or better and a job offer in Alberta. This draw resulted in issuing 412 invitations with a minimum score of 66. The initiative reflects Alberta's commitment to supporting and strengthening its tourism and hospitality sector, which is crucial for the provincial economy, by addressing immediate workforce shortages.

On November 21, 2024, the Alberta Express Entry Stream organized another draw, targeting individuals in healthcare occupations. Candidates needed to possess an Express Entry profile with a CRS score of 300 or more, a CLB score of 5 or higher, and at least 12 months of relevant work experience. This draw led to 96 invitations being issued, with a minimum score of 42. This effort aligns with federal immigration objectives while addressing ongoing workforce challenges in Alberta's healthcare system.

Continuing on November 22, 2024, the Alberta Opportunity Stream focused on candidates within healthcare occupations. The requirements included having a CLB score of 5 or higher, a minimum of 12 months of relevant work experience, and a job offer in a regulated or high-demand healthcare role, exclusions for candidates under the Dedicated Healthcare Pathways. This draw resulted in the issuance of 80 invitations, with a notably low minimum score of 40, emphasizing Alberta's urgent need to attract healthcare professionals to fill critical roles.

Finally, on November 27, 2024, the Alberta Opportunity Stream featured a draw specifically for Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) holders who completed their education in Alberta. To qualify, applicants needed a CLB score of 4 or higher, at least six months of work experience, and a job offer in Alberta, with specific exclusions set. 447 invitations were issued, and the minimum score was 71. This draw signifies Alberta’s commitment to retaining international graduates, particularly in sectors beyond business and sales, as the province seeks to integrate PGWP holders into its workforce effectively.

In summary, Alberta issued 9,276 nomination certificates and invited 2,671 candidates throughout 2024, showcasing a proactive approach to tackling labour market demands through its innovative immigration strategies.