Alberta Steps Up Immigration Efforts to Address Skilled Labour Shortages

Alberta is continuing its efforts to address increasing labour market demands by extending invitations to skilled foreign workers through the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP). In July 2025 alone, the province invited hundreds of applicants to apply for permanent residence, having a clear focus on filling gaps in essential sectors such as healthcare, aviation, agriculture, and law enforcement.

Also Read Alberta Focuses Immigration Efforts on Labour Shortages with Sector-Led PNP Draws

July 2025 Immigration Draws: A Snapshot

From July 3 to July 16, Alberta conducted six separate rounds of invitations under multiple AAIP streams. These draws targeted individuals both within Alberta and those in the federal Express Entry pool, depending on their professional background and connection to high-demand industries. The invitations were issued across a mix of base and enhanced streams.

Breakdown of July Draws:

DateImmigration StreamCut-Off ScoreInvitations Issued
July 16Express Entry – Law Enforcement Pathway49Fewer than 10
July 11Alberta Opportunity Stream72269
July 9Healthcare Pathway (non-EE)5332
July 8Express Entry – Aviation Sector5320
July 4Express Entry – Agriculture Sector6415
July 3Healthcare Pathway (Express Entry)6236

The Alberta Opportunity Stream continues to be the most active, offering the largest number of invitations—primarily to individuals already working full-time in Alberta with job offers from approved employers.

Targeting Key Sectors Through Express Entry

As part of its evolving strategy, Alberta is now using its Express Entry stream more selectively. Rather than issuing broad-based invitations, the province is focusing on professions that align with current labour market needs. Particular pathways have been worked upon for healthcare professionals, tech workers, and law enforcement personnel, while sector-specific draws target important occupations like construction, aviation, and agriculture.

High-Priority Sectors for 2025:

  • Healthcare
  • Agriculture
  • Aviation
  • Construction

This sector-based approach allows Alberta to ensure that newcomers are not just eligible on paper but can immediately contribute to the local economy in meaningful ways.

Progress Toward 2025 Immigration Goals

For 2025, Alberta has been allotted 4,875 nomination slots. As of mid-July, 2,895 of those have already been used, with 1,980 nominations still up for grabs. The Alberta Opportunity Stream has accounted for the lion’s share of these nominations so far, followed by healthcare-focused pathways and draws from priority sectors.

Nomination Statistics (as of July 16, 2025):

Stream2025 QuotaNominations GivenRemaining SlotsEOIs in Pool
Alberta Opportunity Stream2,5921,60898440,623
Priority Sector (Express Entry)4052441614,302
Healthcare (EE & Non-EE)5002512491,623
Law Enforcement20<10N/A116

In addition to those already invited, the province is still reviewing more than 2,300 applications—pointing to sustained interest among potential immigrants.

Opportunities for Skilled Professionals

For workers with relevant experience in key industries, Alberta’s targeted approach offers a significant opportunity. The province is actively looking for professionals with skills in sectors where demand is high and talent is short. Those already working in Alberta or with educational and professional backgrounds that match priority industries stand a strong chance of receiving a provincial nomination.

Prospective applicants should consider exploring streams such as:

  • Alberta Opportunity Stream
  • Priority Sector Draws (Express Entry)
  • Dedicated Healthcare Pathways
  • Tech and Law Enforcement Pathways

What’s Next?

With close to 2,000 nominations still available in 2025 and Alberta’s economy continuing to expand across several sectors, additional rounds of invitations are expected in the months ahead. Foreign workers hoping to be considered should ensure their Express Entry profiles are active and updated and review eligibility criteria for the various AAIP streams.

For detailed program updates, timelines, and eligibility resources, visit the official Alberta Advantage Immigration Program website or speak with a certified immigration consultant.

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