Alberta invites 120 Express Entry candidates and BC targets tech occupations.
Alberta
The Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) issued 120 invitations to apply for provincial nomination through the Alberta Express Entry Stream on July 29. Candidates required a minimum CRS score of 473, an increase over the last draw on June 16 where the minimum CRS score was 300.
Although provincial nomination is not in itself the same as a permanent residence, it can significantly increase the chances of obtaining permanent resident status.
To be eligible for provincial nomination through Alberta’s Express Entry stream, candidates must already be in the Express Entry pool and be able to demonstrate strong ties to Alberta such as a family member already living in Alberta, or a job offer. They must also intend to move there permanently.
British Columbia
This week, more than 164 candidates were invited to apply for provincial nomination in British Columbia in the draw that occurred on August 3. British Columbia typically holds a provincial nomination draw each week.
There was no general draw this week. Instead, the province invited candidates from targeted categories, designed to fill gaps in BC’s labour force.
A total of 133 candidates from the skilled worker and international graduate category were invited in a targeted draw for tech occupations. Candidates required a minimum Skills and Immigration Registration System (SIRS) score of 90.
SIRS acts much like the Express Entry Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) but is only used for British Columbia’s PNP.
The province also held rounds of invitations for candidates working in the following occupations. These draws are identical to the draw that took place on July 26:
- 22 early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 4214) with scores of at least 60 points; and
- 9 healthcare workers with scores of at least 60 points.
