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- calendar_today October 13, 2026
Overview of Recent AAIP Draws
The Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) recently conducted four draw rounds, issuing a total of 476 immigration invitations between September 24 and October 7, 2026. These AAIP draws targeted candidates in various streams, emphasizing the province’s priorities in regional and sector-specific labor needs.
Details of Draw Rounds and Streams
The draws featured the following streams and selection categories:
- September 24, 2026 – Rural Renewal Stream: 131 invitations, minimum score 51
- September 29, 2026 – Alberta Express Entry Stream, Priority Sectors: General: 200 invitations, minimum score 64
- October 2, 2026 – Alberta Opportunity Stream: 123 invitations, minimum score 54
- October 7, 2026 – Alberta Express Entry Stream, Priority Sectors: Aviation: 22 invitations, minimum score 56
The largest share of invitations went to the general priority sectors round in the Alberta Express Entry Stream, while the aviation sector also received focused attention. The remaining candidates were invited via the Rural Renewal Stream and the Alberta Opportunity Stream.
Understanding Alberta’s Immigration Priorities
The AAIP draws highlight Alberta’s focus on key sectors such as health care, technology, construction, manufacturing, and aviation, as well as communities involved in the Rural Renewal Stream. These priority sectors are central to the province’s strategy to align immigration with economic and workforce demands.
However, an identified sector does not provide automatic eligibility or guarantee an invitation. Candidates must meet specific requirements for their chosen AAIP stream, including employment, work experience, licensing, language proficiency, or Express Entry qualifications where applicable.
For instance, employment in aviation alone does not qualify an applicant for the aviation-focused draw. Similarly, candidates considering the Rural Renewal Stream must fulfill community endorsement and other requirements particular to that stream.
Minimum Scores and Selection Criteria
The reported minimum scores for the four draws ranged from 51 to 64. While these minimums provide context, Alberta cautions that more factors than the Expression of Interest score are used in selection decisions. AAIP draws do not operate on a fixed timetable and may adapt according to emerging provincial needs.
It’s also important for applicants not to directly compare Alberta’s selection scores to the federal Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) used in Express Entry, as the two serve fundamentally different purposes.
AAIP Invitations and Next Steps for Candidates
As of October 7, 2026, Alberta has issued 13,172 immigration invitations across AAIP streams for the year. However, this number refers to invitations to apply, not actual nominations or permanent residence approvals. Alberta reported 5,541 nominations issued out of a 2026 provincial allocation of 6,603. Receiving an invitation is a step toward provincial nomination but not a guarantee of permanent residence.
Candidates considering AAIP are advised to:
- Identify the AAIP stream that fits their profile, such as the Alberta Opportunity Stream, Rural Renewal Stream, or Alberta Express Entry pathway.
- Confirm their eligibility based on occupation, work experience, job offers, and work permits as outlined by each stream's unique rules.
- Keep their online profiles updated, accurate, and backed by documentation.
- Monitor official Alberta immigration sources for changes in draw priorities or requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Latest AAIP Draws
How many candidates were invited in these AAIP draws?
A total of 476 candidates received invitations: 131 via the Rural Renewal Stream, 200 through Alberta Express Entry (general priority sectors), 123 via the Alberta Opportunity Stream, and 22 in the aviation sector selection.
What is the lowest minimum score reported?
The lowest reported minimum score was 51 in the September 24, 2026 Rural Renewal Stream draw. Minimum scores vary by stream and draw.
Does meeting the AAIP minimum score guarantee an invitation?
No. Selection is determined by a combination of profile information and program priorities, not just the score.
Are Alberta Opportunity Stream and Alberta Express Entry the same?
No. These are distinct pathways within AAIP, each with its own eligibility rules and requirements.
Does an AAIP invitation mean permanent residence?
No. An invitation allows the candidate to proceed in the process but does not automatically grant nomination or permanent residence, which are determined at later stages.
Source: immigcanada.com.
