Express Entry candidates in Alberta are selected through Alberta’s Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP). The AINP allows the province of Alberta to select a limited number of candidates from Canada’s Express Entry pool.

The AINP favours candidates who have strong ties to Alberta or who can help support the province’s economic development and diversification priorities. The program was created by the Province of Alberta together with the Federal Government of Canada in order to streamline immigration options. There are a variety of different streams available under this program including the Alberta Opportunity Stream, Alberta Express Entry Stream and the Self-Employed Farmer Stream.

How The Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program Selects Express Entry Candidates

Foreign applicants are only able to apply for the Alberta Express Entry stream after they have received a Notification of Interest (NOI) letter from the Province of Alberta. These candidates will be notified by AINP via their Express Entry profile after which, they may submit the application for a provincial nomination under the Express Entry stream for Alberta. There are a series of documents you will need to provide to accompany your application as well such as security clearance checks, medical checks, etc. More information on the documents required after you have received your AINP nomination package can be found here.

Candidates may receive a NOI successfully if they:

• Have an active express entry profile in the federal Express Entry pool;
• Are interested in immigrating permanently to Alberta;
• Are working in an occupation that supports Alberta’s economic development and diversification objectives; and
• Have a minimum Comprehensive Ranking Score (CRS) score of 300 although this score may change from time to time.

Having a valid job offer in Alberta, being a graduate of an Alberta post-secondary school or having a direct family member already living in Alberta may also enhance an individual’s application. However, it is important to note here that every application is unique and presents different circumstances – therefore it is wise to hire an Edmonton immigration lawyer to assist with the application.

Alberta Express Entry Stream

The Alberta Express Entry Stream allows individuals to apply for permanent residence in Alberta. As mentioned before – in order to be eligible for Express Entry into Alberta – candidates must have received a NOI from the Province first. Applicants cannot directly apply for Alberta Express Entry. Instead, the Alberta Express Entry Stream allows the Province of Alberta to nominate a number of qualified individuals from Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s Express Entry system. Once nominated, the individual may be asked to submit an application for Express Entry.

How Can An Immigration Lawyer Help With An Express Entry Application?

Navigating the legalities surrounding immigration matters can be very complex in Alberta. Having an immigration lawyer assist you with your application ensures that you receive legal guidance on a variety of available options to help reach your immigration goals. Verhaeghe Law is well aware of the stress and bureaucratic red tape that is very evident in our country’s complicated immigration statutes and are happy to help with your express entry application.

If you are in need of legal assistance with respect to an express entry visa application – contact our Edmonton law firm today and speak directly with an Edmonton immigration lawyer. We are conveniently located in the Mayfield Business Centre and have helped thousands of clients with respect to express entry visas. Call us today at 587-410-2500.

*Please note the content of this blog offers a general overview and does not constitute legal advice as every case is unique from one another. We encourage you to seek legal advice from an immigration lawyer for any answers related to immigration matters in Alberta.