NWT Nominee Program Reopened November 10 With Updated Criteria – Now Closed for 2025

But those spots didn’t last long. The NTNP has now closed its 2025 intake, having received enough applications to fill its full allocation of 300 nominations, restored earlier this year by the federal government.

So, while the recent intake is officially wrapped up, here’s a clear look at what happened, what changed, and what options still remain for newcomers and skilled workers thinking about building their future in the Northwest Territories.

Why This Intake Matters 

Earlier this month, the Government of Canada restored the NWT’s full annual allocation of 300 nomination spots for 2025. That move followed months of persistent lobbying by the territorial government, proof that advocacy does sometimes pay off.  

Because of this boost, the GNWT had room to accept and process up to 103 more applications in 2025. To make sure those spots don’t go unused, several temporary eligibility changes were introduced.

The intake ran from November 10 to November 24, though nomination capacity was reached before, and it was announced on November 12 that the intake has now closed.

Key Changes That Applied During the November 2025 Intake

1. Employers aren’t capped anymore

In past intakes, businesses were limited in how many applications they could send based on their size. That meant a bigger company could sponsor more candidates than a small business, even if the smaller one desperately needed workers. 

Now, there are no limits. If your employer believes in you and wants to nominate you, they don’t have to juggle scarcity. 

For skilled workers already filling labour shortages in the NWT, this change alone may open doors that were closed before. 

2. Your work permit expiry date won’t hold you back

This one’s a relief. The previous rules tied eligibility to strict timelines around your work permit. The revised guidelines say: If you have a valid work permit and meet all other criteria, you can apply. 

For many migrants already worried about expiring documents, this takes some pressure off. It gives you room to breathe, gather your paperwork, and submit a complete application rather than rushing. 

3. Work experience rules are going back to the old system

Applicants to the Skilled Worker and NWT Express Entry streams must now show: 

• 1 year of full-time experience

• Within the last 10 years

• In the same or similar occupation as the job offer

• From one or multiple employers 

If you’ve built your experience across different jobs or companies, this is especially helpful. It reflects how most careers actually unfold for newcomers. 

Processing Priorities During the Intake

When applications were being reviewed, the GNWT prioritized them based on:

1. Work permits expiring within 3 months

2. The date the application was received

With the nomination cap reached, any remaining applications will now be withdrawn, and applicants will be invited to try again next year.

If yours is withdrawn, you’ll be invited to try again in 2026, which is at least a softer landing than an outright refusal.

Available Pathways for Newcomers Moving Forward

Even though the intake has closed, the message is clear: the NWT is committed to keeping workers who are already part of the community. Skilled newcomers keep hospitals running, child care centres staffed, restaurants open, and essential services functioning – especially in remote communities.

The NTNP is just one tool the territory uses to stabilize its workforce, and its impact is often felt immediately at the community level.

What’s Still Open?

While the Employer-Driven and Francophone Streams have reached their limits for 2025, the Business Stream remains open.

Employers looking to fill ongoing labour shortages may also consider:

• Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)

• Francophone Mobility Program (FMP)

Looking Ahead to 2026

If you’re planning to apply next year:

• Keep your documents up to date

• Stay connected with your employer

• Watch for the GNWT announcement on the next intake

• Prepare early so you’re ready when the window opens

If anything feels unclear, you can contact the GNWT for help.
 

Immigration programs can feel cold and mechanical, but this intake has a hint of optimism behind it. The NWT wants workers to stay. They want communities to grow. And they’re trying to make it happen. 

If you’re planning to apply next year, the GNWT has confirmed the program will open again in 2026, with more details coming at a later date.