IRCC holds the first-ever Express Entry draw for Physicians in Canada with a record-low CRS of 169. Plus, (Alberta AAIP Surge) Alberta conducts 6 new AAIP draws and Nova Scotia streamlines the NSNP.
Strategic Shifts in 2026: Historic Draws for Physicians and Major Provincial Restructuring
As we progress through the third week of February 2026, Canada’s immigration landscape is defined by highly targeted recruitment and significant structural modernizations. From a groundbreaking federal draw exclusively for doctors to a major streamlining of Nova Scotia’s immigration pathways, the focus is squarely on efficiency and addressing critical labor market gaps.
Historic Express Entry Draw #397: Physicians with Canadian Work Experience
On February 19, 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted a milestone draw. Draw #397 was the first-ever category-based selection exclusively targeting Physicians with Canadian Work Experience.
Draw Highlights:
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Invitations Issued (ITAs): 391
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CRS Cut-off Score: 169 points (an exceptionally low score highlighting the acute demand for medical professionals).
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Tie-breaking Rule: January 03, 2026, at 03:25:14 UTC.
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Pool Status: As of February 15, there are 235,695 profiles in the Express Entry pool.
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Year-to-Date Impact: The Government of Canada has issued 30,848 ITAs so far in 2026.
This incredibly low CRS threshold proves that professionals working in priority sectors can bypass the intensely competitive general draws, fast-tracking their permanent residency.
Alberta AAIP: Six New Draws Target Rural and Tech Growth
Alberta continues its aggressive 2026 recruitment strategy. On February 18, the province released the results of six targeted draws held earlier in the month through the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP).
Draw Breakdown (February 6 – 11):
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Rural Renewal Stream: 212 candidates invited.
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Accelerated Tech Pathway: 147 Express Entry candidates invited.
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Priority Sectors: Over 90 candidates invited across three draws targeting manufacturing, agriculture, and construction.
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Law Enforcement Pathway: Up to 10 candidates invited.
With these recent rounds, Alberta has already invited 1,630 candidates in 2026, firmly positioning itself as a top destination for specialized talent and rural development.
Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) Streamlines Pathways
In a major bid to simplify the immigration journey, Nova Scotia has officially restructured the NSNP. Effective February 18, 2026, the province consolidated its ten separate streams into four clearly defined pathways.
The Four New NSNP Pathways:
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Nova Scotia Graduate
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Skilled Worker
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Entrepreneur
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Nova Scotia: Express Entry
This modernization applies only to new applications submitted after February 18. Existing applications and overall eligibility requirements remain unaffected, ensuring a seamless transition for candidates already in the system.
British Columbia: Strong Public Support for Tougher Extortion Measures
Amid an ongoing surge in extortion attempts and related violence in BC’s Lower Mainland, a new Research Co. poll highlights a strong public consensus on immigration enforcement.
Poll Findings:
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80% of British Columbians support expediting the deportation of non-citizens charged or convicted of extortion.
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The support crosses political lines, backed by 87% of Conservatives, 85% of NDP voters, and 73% of Greens.
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Furthermore, 72% want adolescents recruited for these activities to face adult criminal charges, signaling a growing demand for strict public safety and border security measures.
Why Choose Go Canada Services?
Go Canada Services (est. 2004) is the only Canadian Incorporation providing holistic Academic, Immigration, Integration, and Legal Services. We ensure your profile is optimized to take full advantage of 2026’s targeted draws and newly streamlined provincial programs.
Our Core Services:
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Permanent Residence Canada: Strategic advice for the new NSNP consolidated streams and AAIP draws.
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Study Permits: Placement in academic fields that lead directly to the Nova Scotia Graduate pathway.
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Family Sponsorship: Expert legal help for reuniting families in welcoming provinces.
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Free Immigration Assessment: Evaluate your 2026 eligibility for the AAIP Rural Renewal or Accelerated Tech pathways.
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Contact Our Experts: Personalized consultation for medical professionals seeking to leverage the new Physicians category.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What was the minimum CRS score for the Express Entry Physicians draw? The CRS cut-off score for Draw #397 was exceptionally low at just 169 points.
2. Who was eligible for Express Entry Draw #397? The draw exclusively targeted Physicians with recognized Canadian Work Experience.
3. How many new pathways does the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) have now? As of February 18, 2026, the NSNP has consolidated its programs into four main pathways: Graduate, Skilled Worker, Entrepreneur, and Express Entry.
4. Will the Nova Scotia changes affect my already submitted application? No, the consolidation only applies to new applications submitted after February 18, 2026. Existing applications remain completely unaffected.
5. How many candidates did Alberta invite in its latest AAIP updates? Alberta released the results of six draws, inviting hundreds of candidates, notably 212 through the Rural Renewal Stream and 147 through the Accelerated Tech Pathway.
6. Why is there a push for faster deportations in British Columbia? A surge in extortion cases and violence linked to foreign nationals has prompted 80% of BC residents to support expediting the removal of non-citizens charged with or convicted of these crimes.
7. I am a doctor working in Canada. How can I apply for permanent residency? You may be eligible for the new category-based Express Entry pathway for Physicians with Canadian Work Experience, which currently boasts very low CRS requirements. You should Contact Our Experts to prepare and submit your profile correctly.
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Secure Your Status Before Policies Change
With the government actively reducing temporary residents but inviting those already here (CEC), your strategy matters more than ever. Let Go Canada Services help you secure your Permanent Residence.