Northwest Territories’ Full Nominee Program Allocation Restored for 2025
The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) has confirmed that its full 2025 allocation under the Northwest Territories Nominee Program (NTNP) has been restored. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has approved a return to 300 nominations – reversing earlier federal cuts that reduced the number to 150 at the start of the year.
On This Page You Will Find
- Overview of the restored NTNP allocation
- Background on the federal cut and reversal
- Economic impact for employers and newcomers
- Details on program reopening and next intake
- Future plans for NTNP modernization
A Victory for the North
Minister of Education, Culture and Employment Caitlin Cleveland called the restoration “an important milestone” and a direct result of “persistent, constructive advocacy” from the territorial government and Northern communities.
She said the restored allocation will ensure that employers once again have access to the skilled workers they need to sustain and grow their businesses. It also provides newcomers with a clearer path to permanent residence and long-term settlement in the North.
Cleveland thanked federal Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab for her collaboration and understanding of the North’s distinct realities. She emphasized that the decision reflects a renewed partnership between Ottawa and the territories to support Northern growth and sovereignty.
Why the Restoration Matters
The 2025 allocation for the NTNP was initially cut in half to 150 nominations, then partially increased to 197 in August. The full restoration to 300 brings the program back to pre-2025 levels.
The GNWT met its entire allocation for the first time in 2024, demonstrating strong demand for skilled workers across sectors. With the full allocation now restored, ECE is preparing to reopen the next intake for employers and eligible applicants as soon as details are finalized.
Cleveland noted that the outcome was achieved through collective Northern advocacy – including Indigenous governments, employers, chambers of commerce, and newcomers who shared their experiences. Their input helped highlight the importance of immigration as both an economic and nation-building tool for the North.
Supporting Northern Growth
The Northwest Territories Nominee Program allows the GNWT to nominate foreign nationals for permanent residence who plan to live and work in the territory and meet its labour market needs. Restoring the allocation to 300 will strengthen small businesses, support community growth, and promote sustainable economic development.
Work is also underway to modernize the NTNP for 2026 and beyond, incorporating feedback from employers, Indigenous governments, and community partners to ensure it continues meeting the territory’s evolving needs.
FAQ
What is the Northwest Territories Nominee Program (NTNP)?
The NTNP allows the territorial government to nominate foreign nationals for permanent residence who intend to live and work in the Northwest Territories and meet local labour needs.
How many nominations does the NWT have for 2025?
The territory’s allocation has been restored to 300 nominations for 2025, returning to pre-cut levels after a temporary reduction earlier in the year.
Why was the allocation reduced and later restored?
The federal government initially reduced the allocation in early 2025 but later reversed the decision after strong advocacy from the GNWT and community stakeholders who highlighted the importance of immigration for the Northern economy.
What does this mean for employers in the NWT?
Employers will have greater access to skilled workers needed to sustain operations and grow their businesses. The restored allocation also helps newcomers secure long-term residency.
What are the next steps for the program?
The GNWT’s Department of Education, Culture and Employment is preparing to reopen intake for new applications soon and is consulting with partners to update the NTNP for 2026 and beyond.
