Immigration Announcement
Northwest Territories Nominee Program Reopens with New Guidelines for 2025
The Northwest Territories Nominee Program (NTNP) is set to reopen its application intake from February 27 to March 6, 2025, bringing major changes to its selection process. Due to a reduced federal allocation, the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) has introduced new guidelines for 2025, including business size-based quotas for employers and a randomized selection process instead of the traditional first-come, first-served approach.
With only 90 new applications being accepted this year, candidates must ensure they meet all eligibility criteria and submit complete applications before the deadline.
Key Changes in the 2025 NTNP Intake
The NTNP’s nomination allocation for 2025 is set at 150 spots, but only 90 new applications will be considered in this intake period, as 60 applications from 2024 are already being processed under this year’s quota.
The breakdown of these 90 applications is as follows:
1. Employer-Driven Stream (Yellowknife Employers) – 70 Applications
35 applications for Entry-Level/Semi-Skilled Occupations:
- Candidates must have an expiring work permit in 2025.
- Must have worked full-time in the NWT for at least 12 months with the same employer.
35 applications for Skilled Worker and NWT Express Entry:
- Must have a permanent full-time job offer from an NWT employer.
- Must have 12 months of work experience in the nominated occupation.
- Must have an expiring work permit in 2025, OR
- Must have been working full-time for at least 18 months with the same employer.
2. Employer-Driven Stream (Outside Yellowknife) – 10 Applications
- 5 applications for Entry-Level/Semi-Skilled Occupations (same criteria as above).
- 5 applications for Skilled Worker and Express Entry (same criteria as above).
3. Francophone Stream or Employer-Driven Stream – 10 Applications
- Reserved for Francophone candidates or those applying through the Employer-Driven Stream.
- Employer Quotas Based on Business Size
A significant change in 2025 is the business size-based cap on employer applications:
| Number of Employees in NWT | Maximum Applications Allowed |
| 1-10 employees | 1 application |
| 11-49 employees | 2 applications |
| 50+ employees | 4 applications |
Randomized Selection Process
Unlike previous years, applications will not be processed on a first-come, first-served basis. Instead:
- 90 applications will be randomly selected after the intake period.
- Selected applications will be assessed based on work permit expiry dates.
- Applicants will receive email notifications about selection results.
Challenges & Alternatives for Applicants
With the limited number of applications being accepted, many potential candidates may not get a chance to apply in 2025. The GNWT acknowledges this challenge and encourages employers to explore federal immigration pathways, such as:
- Express Entry – A streamlined process for skilled workers.
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) of Other Provinces – Alternative nomination programs.
- Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) – A pathway for businesses facing critical labor shortages.
Preparing for the NTNP 2025 Intake
To increase your chances of success:
- Review the new guidelines carefully before applying.
- Prepare all required documents in advance.
- Ensure your employer is eligible under the new quotas.
- Submit your application before the March 6 deadline.
For further assistance, contact GNWT at 1 (855) 440-5450 or visit www.immigratenwt.ca
The Northwest Territories Nominee Program (NTNP) remains a crucial pathway for foreign workers and employers in the region. However, the new randomized selection system and strict employer quotas make this year’s intake highly competitive. If you’re considering applying, act fast and ensure your application meets all requirements.
