Alberta Advantage Immigration Program: Processing Times and Application Levels

On August 19, 2024, the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) conducted a draw, issuing 41 Notifications of Interest (NOIs) with a primary focus on healthcare professionals. This initiative aligns with Alberta’s ongoing efforts to attract skilled workers to address labor shortages in critical sectors. The draw, which required a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 301, highlights Alberta’s dedication to bolstering its healthcare workforce. The CRS score for this draw is slightly higher than the previous one, suggesting a strategic adjustment while still maintaining accessibility compared to federal Express Entry thresholds.

The AAIP provides critical insights into the number of nominations issued, application volumes, and processing times across its various streams. This article summarizes the data as of August 19, 2024, highlighting the allocation of nominations, processing timelines, and the recent updates in the application processes.

Nominations Issued and Available (2024)

In 2024, the AAIP received a total of 9,750 nominations across various streams, reflecting a strategic distribution aligned with provincial needs.

Table 1: 2024 AAIP Nominations

Application Volumes and Processing Times

The processing times and the number of unprocessed applications give insight into the program’s current status. The table below outlines the unprocessed applications and the dates up to which applications are being assessed.

Table 2: Application Breakdown

For the Entrepreneur Streams, processing times vary based on the stage of the expression of interest and the business application. On average, it takes up to four months to process each stage.

New Application Process

Starting September 30, 2024, AAIP will implement a new expression of interest system. Candidates will be placed in a selection pool, and invitations will be sent based on their ranking and provincial labor market priorities. This change will replace the existing monthly application acceptance dates, allowing for continuous intake.

Table 3: Applications Accepted for Assessment

For the Accelerated Tech Pathway, there are currently 444 web form submissions in the pool, received between May 23 and June 11, 2024.

Table 4: Invitations to Apply to the Accelerated Tech Pathway

Express Entry Draws and Draw Parameters

The Alberta Express Entry Stream has conducted multiple draws focusing primarily on the Dedicated Healthcare Pathway. The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score requirements, draw parameters, and the number of Notification of Interest letters issued are listed below.

Table 5: Express Entry Draws

The number of NOIs issued has varied, with a peak of 99 in May 2024, followed by a gradual decrease in subsequent draws. The August 19 draw saw 41 NOIs, indicating a moderate level of activity that may suggest a more targeted approach rather than a broad invitation strategy. The minimum CRS score has remained stable, with the August 19 draw maintaining a score of 301, consistent with the previous draw on July 2. This stability suggests Alberta is keeping the threshold relatively low to attract candidates, especially in essential sectors like healthcare.

Alberta’s focus on healthcare professionals aligns with its economic priorities, addressing immediate labor shortages and reinforcing the province’s appeal as a destination for skilled immigrants. Looking ahead, the launch of a new expression of interest system on September 30, 2024, will introduce a more dynamic selection process, potentially leading to more frequent and diverse draws. The August 19, 2024, draw under the AAIP reflects Alberta’s strategic immigration approach, focusing on key sectors crucial to the province’s economic stability and growth. The consistent CRS score and targeted invitations for healthcare professionals highlight Alberta’s dedication to addressing labor needs while remaining an attractive option for skilled immigrants. As the new expression of interest system is implemented, it will be crucial to monitor its impact on future draws and Alberta’s overall immigration landscape.

The AAIP continues to align its processes with Alberta’s labor market needs, implementing changes to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of its immigration streams. The updates in application processes, processing times, and the draw parameters ensure that the program remains responsive to both applicants and the province’s economic requirements.