Details of first draws through new Express Entry-linked immigration stream released for Alberta

Alberta has released the first details of draws conducted through its Express Entry- linked stream since its introduction in June.  Eligible Express Entry candidates with CRS scores as low as 301 have been invited through Alberta Express Entry Stream.

A total of seven draws have been held since then, with the first and largest issuing 155 Notifications of Interest (NOIs) on July 6 to Express Entry candidates with Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores as low as 302.

The Alberta Express Entry Stream allows the Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP) to search the federal Express Entry system for candidates who meet the stream’s eligibility requirements and invite them to apply for a provincial nomination for permanent residence.

Express Entry candidates with a provincial nomination are awarded an additional 600 points toward their  CRS score, effectively guaranteeing an invitation from the Government of Canada to apply for permanent residence. The CRS ranks Express Entry candidates based on points awarded for factors such as age, skilled work experience, education, proficiency in English or French.

Eligible Express Entry candidates must have a CRS score at least 300 and they must be working in an occupation that “supports Alberta’s economic development and diversification,” among other criteria, the AINP says.

Candidates with a job offer and/or work experience in Alberta, a degree from a Canadian post-secondary institution and/or a parent, child or sibling already living in Alberta may be prioritized for an NOI.

Candidates must be already have a profile in the Express Entry pool in order to be considered for this stream. Express Entry profiles that expire in three months or less prior to a given draw date may not be considered, the AINP warns.