Health professionals remain at the forefront of Alberta’s immigration strategy as the province issued 81 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) through three distinct immigration draws in early April 2025. The invitations, distributed under the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP), were specifically directed at candidates working in critical health care roles, both through the federal Express Entry system and Alberta’s standalone (non-Express Entry) pathways.
This move comes amid a growing demand for health care services across Alberta and reflects the province’s proactive approach to building a sustainable medical workforce.
Also Read Alberta Issues 81 Invitations to Healthcare Professionals
Snapshot of April’s AAIP Draws
Alberta carried out immigration draws on three separate dates—April 1, April 4, and April 8—each targeting health care professionals with different eligibility criteria and score thresholds:
| Date | Immigration Pathway | Number of ITAs | Lowest Score Selected |
| April 1, 2025 | Express Entry – Dedicated Health Care Pathway | 34 | 60 |
| April 4, 2025 | Alberta Express Entry – Health Care Priority Sector | 19 | 71 |
| April 8, 2025 | Non-Express Entry – Dedicated Health Care Pathway | 28 | 53 |
Three Routes, One Goal: Attracting Health Talent
1. Express Entry: Dedicated Health Care Stream
In its first draw of the month, Alberta welcomed 34 candidates through a pathway connected to the federal Express Entry system. This stream was created to prioritize occupations vital to Alberta’s health system.
Candidates needed a minimum score of 60 to be eligible and must have had their health occupation listed as the primary job on their Express Entry profile.
Key Requirements:
- Eligibility under an Express Entry program;
- CRS score of 300 or higher;
- Valid job offer from a health care employer in Alberta;
- Primary occupation in one of the eligible health fields.
2. Alberta Express Entry – Priority Sectors (Health Care Focus)
The second draw on April 4 zeroed in on candidates working in designated high-demand sectors. Of the numerous sectors Alberta recognizes, health care remains a critical priority.
Only 19 candidates received invitations, and the competition was tighter with a minimum selection score of 71. This stream also required a valid Alberta job offer in a qualifying health role.
3. Non-Express Entry: Dedicated Health Care Pathway
The final draw, held on April 8, opened doors to health professionals who may not be part of the Express Entry system. Alberta invited 28 individuals through its base nomination stream, which accommodates applicants with slightly different qualifications and a lower score threshold of 53.
Who Qualifies?
- Must hold a job offer from an Alberta health care employer;
- Meet language standards—CLB 5 minimum in all skills;
- Submit verifiable licensure or eligibility to practice in Alberta;
Either hold a valid work permit or maintain legal status in Canada.
Eligible Occupations and Governing Authorities
Professionals in the following roles are eligible to apply under Alberta’s health care immigration pathways, provided they meet regulatory requirements for practice in the province:
| Profession | Regulatory Body |
| Physician | College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) |
| Registered Nurse | College of Registered Nurses of Alberta (CRNA) |
| Licensed Practical Nurse | College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta (CLPNA) |
| Nurse Practitioner | College of Registered Nurses of Alberta (CRNA) |
| Physician Assistant | College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) |
| Physiotherapist | College of Physiotherapists of Alberta (CPA) |
| Occupational Therapist | Alberta College of Occupational Therapists (ACOT) |
| Clinical Social Worker | Alberta College of Social Workers (ACSW) |
| Psychologist | College of Alberta Psychologists (CAP) |
Each of these professionals must provide documentation proving they meet Alberta’s licensing standards, either through certification or assessment by the relevant regulatory authority.
Why Alberta Is Focusing on Health Care Immigration
Alberta’s emphasis on health sector immigration reflects a broader national trend: the urgent need to address shortages across Canada’s public health infrastructure. By offering targeted immigration pathways, Alberta is not only filling immediate labor market gaps but also fostering long-term growth in its health care system.
These carefully designed streams ensure that newcomers arrive job-ready and credentialed, enabling them to integrate quickly and effectively into Alberta’s workforce.
What Prospective Applicants Should Know
For health professionals looking to settle and work in Alberta, timing is critical. Here are the steps you should take if you’re considering immigration through one of Alberta’s health-specific pathways:
- Review eligibility requirements and assess whether you qualify for the Express Entry or non-Express Entry stream;
- Obtain a job offer from a recognized health care provider in Alberta;
- Prepare documentation for licensure and language proficiency;
- Maintain or obtain legal status in Canada if already residing in the country.
Conclusion
Alberta’s latest draws highlight a clear and continued commitment to supporting the province’s health system through immigration. Whether you’re an international nurse, physician, therapist, or social worker, Alberta’s targeted streams offer a valuable route to permanent residency and career advancement in Canada.
As the province continues to innovate in its approach to economic immigration, skilled professionals from around the world are finding real opportunities to contribute to—and thrive in—Alberta’s dynamic health care landscape.
