Maple News reports that the Government of Yukon has successfully obtained 67 additional nomination allocations for its Yukon Nominee Program (YNP), increasing its total to 282 for 2025. This is a notable rise from the 215 nominations initially allocated by the federal government, following a nationwide reduction in Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) allotments by 50% earlier this year.
The announcement, made on August 21, 2025, comes amid rising pressure from Yukon employers seeking immigration pathways to bring in international talent. The increased quota allows the territory to better support labour market demands and strengthen its local economy by retaining skilled immigrants.
Due to previously issued Invitations to Apply (ITAs), carry-over applications from 2024, and 13 recent ITA withdrawals, Yukon currently has 80 new ITAs available to distribute in August 2025. This provides a key opportunity for qualified applicants who meet the territory’s strict eligibility requirements.
Earlier this year, the YNP transitioned to a new Expression of Interest (EOI) system, launched on March 31. Yukon received over 500 EOI submissions from employers within a short intake window that closed on April 22. Nearly 400 of these submissions matched the territory’s strategic immigration priorities.
Under Yukon’s new selection criteria, ITAs are being offered to candidates who demonstrate strong community ties or high integration potential. These include individuals who have either lived and worked in Yukon for at least one year, graduated from a territorial post-secondary institution, are French-speaking (Francophone), or have obtained a Temporary Measure Letter of Support—making them eligible for a special Yukon work permit.
To date, 54 carry-over applications from 2024 were processed by January 22, 2025, leaving 161 nomination spaces. Between May 23 and May 27, Yukon issued 153 ITAs, showing its commitment to filling positions aligned with local needs while supporting long-term immigration goals.
By negotiating additional nomination spots, Yukon has enhanced its ability to respond to local labour market demands and strengthen pathways to permanent residence for international workers and graduates already contributing to the territory’s economy.
This proactive approach underscores Yukon’s determination to address workforce shortages and ensure that immigration continues to serve the region’s development priorities effectively.