Alberta has launched 2026 with a strong push in its provincial immigration efforts, issuing more than 1,100 invitations to apply for nomination under the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) in just a short period. Between late January and early February, the province conducted four separate draws, distributing a total of 1,169 invitations across different streams. This early activity signals Alberta's commitment to attracting skilled workers to support its economy, particularly in high-demand sectors.
The Alberta Advantage Immigration Program serves as the main pathway for skilled individuals, entrepreneurs, and others to gain permanent residency in the province. Through this program, Alberta nominates candidates who align with its labor market needs, allowing them to apply for Canadian permanent residence. Nominations from provinces like Alberta provide a significant advantage in the federal immigration system, often leading to faster processing and higher chances of success.
The four draws took place over a span of about a week, from January 26 to February 2, 2026. Each targeted specific streams or pathways, with varying minimum scores required for invitations.
First, on January 26, the Dedicated Health Care Pathway under the Express Entry-aligned stream issued 63 invitations. Candidates needed a minimum score of 61 to be selected. This pathway focuses on healthcare professionals who are already in the federal Express Entry pool, helping address shortages in Alberta's medical sector.
The following day, January 27, another draw under the Dedicated Health Care Pathway—this time for the non-Express Entry route—invited 43 candidates. The cut-off score here was notably lower at 45, marking the lowest threshold among the four draws. This stream supports healthcare workers who may not be in Express Entry but meet provincial criteria, broadening opportunities for those in essential roles.
On January 29, the focus shifted to technology with the Alberta Express Entry Stream’s Accelerated Tech Pathway. This draw issued 148 invitations to candidates with a minimum score of 63. The Accelerated Tech Pathway prioritizes tech professionals, reflecting Alberta's push to grow its innovation and digital economy. Tech workers benefit from faster processing when they have job offers or experience in priority occupations.
The largest draw occurred on February 2 through the Alberta Opportunity Stream, which sent out 915 invitations. The minimum score required was 57. This stream is designed for workers already employed in Alberta, offering a route to permanent residency for those contributing to the local workforce. It often targets a wide range of occupations, making it one of the more accessible options for in-province candidates.
Together, these draws highlight Alberta's strategic approach to immigration. The province prioritizes key sectors such as health care, technology, construction, manufacturing, aviation, agriculture, and rural communities through the Rural Renewal Stream. While invitations can go to candidates outside these priorities, the emphasis remains on filling critical gaps in the labor market. Selection is not based solely on minimum scores; factors like relevant work experience in priority occupations, status as a licensed physician in Alberta, or being a francophone newcomer can also influence who receives an invitation.
As of early February 2026, Alberta's total nomination allocation for the year stands at 6,403. By that point, 405 nominations had already been issued—mostly through the Opportunity Stream—leaving nearly 6,000 spaces available. This allocation allows the province to nominate candidates throughout the year, with ongoing draws expected. Additionally, federal spaces exist for certain groups like practice-ready physicians and francophones, which do not count against the provincial cap.
The Expression of Interest pool under worker streams remains substantial, with tens of thousands of profiles, indicating high interest in Alberta's pathways. The province manages this by conducting draws irregularly rather than on a fixed schedule, allowing flexibility to respond to economic needs.
These early 2026 draws demonstrate Alberta's proactive stance on immigration. By inviting over 1,100 candidates so quickly, the province is positioning itself to welcome skilled talent that can drive growth in vital industries. For prospective immigrants, this activity underscores the importance of aligning with priority sectors, maintaining strong profiles, and monitoring updates closely. Whether through healthcare, tech, or established employment in the province, opportunities continue to open for those ready to contribute to Alberta's future.
Written by Gagandeep Singh
