The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) has announced a major milestone for the region’s immigration strategy, the restoration of its full 2025 nominee allocation under the Northwest Territories Nominee Program (NTNP). The announcement was made by Caitlin Cleveland, Minister of Education, Culture and Employment (ECE), who confirmed that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has reinstated the full allocation of 300 nominations, returning to pre-2025 levels. “This is an important step forward for Northern communities,” said Minister Cleveland. “Restoring our full nominee allocation ensures that small businesses, families, and local economies have the support they need to grow and thrive.”

A Result of Persistent Northern Advocacy

Earlier in 2025, the federal government had cut the Northwest Territories’ allocation in half, dropping it from 300 to 150. This reduction had raised concerns among business owners and community leaders about labour shortages and population sustainability in the region.

Since then, the GNWT has actively worked with IRCC and federal officials to advocate for the restoration of the province’s immigration capacity. Minister Cleveland credited the change to constructive collaboration with Minister Lena Metlege Diab, who she praised for her leadership and responsiveness.

“This decision reflects a renewed spirit of cooperation and shared vision between the territories and Ottawa,” Cleveland noted. “Together, we’ve ensured that Northern priorities remain a part of Canada’s national immigration strategy.”

What the Restoration Means for Northern Employers and Communities

With the full allocation now reinstated, employers across the Northwest Territories will once again have access to skilled workers through the Employer-Driven and Francophone Streams of the NTNP.

This restoration means:

• Businesses can fill critical labour shortages and maintain operations.
• Newcomers gain a more secure pathway to permanent residency and long-term settlement.
• Small and remote communities will have renewed opportunities to grow their populations and local economies sustainably.

The GNWT has confirmed that the next intake for the NTNP will open soon, with details to be announced once program updates are finalized.

Northwest Territories Nominee Program: Supporting Economic Growth and Workforce Stability

The Northwest Territories Nominee Program (NTNP) allows the territorial government to nominate skilled foreign workers, international graduates, and Francophone professionals for Canadian permanent residency. The program helps address labour market needs across sectors such as healthcare, trades, hospitality, and transportation — all vital to the Northern economy.

Key Facts About the NTNP

Year	Allocation	Status
Pre-2025	300	Full allocation met in 2024
Early 2025	150	Allocation cut in half
August 2025	197	Partial restoration
October 2025	300	Full allocation restored

The GNWT met its full allocation for the first time in 2024, signaling a strong demand for skilled immigration and the growing success of its Employer-Driven and Francophone streams.

Northern Immigration: A Cornerstone of Canada’s Growth

Minister Cleveland emphasized that immigration is more than an economic necessity; it is a nation-building tool that strengthens Canada’s sovereignty and enriches Northern communities. “Immigration is not just a workforce strategy,” she said. “It fills vital gaps in our labour market, supports local employment, and reinforces Canada’s presence in the Arctic. A strong, inclusive North depends on people, and today’s announcement brings us closer to that goal.”

The restoration of the NTNP allocation marks a turning point for the North, reaffirming the federal and territorial governments’ shared commitment to economic growth, cultural diversity, and community stability.

A Promising Future for the Northwest Territories Nominee Program

The full restoration of the Northwest Territories Nominee Program (NTNP) allocation to 300 nominations represents a clear victory for employers, immigrants, and communities alike. It strengthens the region’s capacity to attract and retain skilled talent, ensures workforce stability, and supports sustainable population growth all while reinforcing Canada’s broader immigration goals.

As the GNWT prepares to open the next NTNP intake, now is the time for skilled professionals and employers to act. The program continues to offer one of the most direct pathways to Canadian permanent residency for those ready to live and work in the North. For personalized guidance on how to apply under the NTNP or other Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), connect with ImmigCanada, your trusted partner in achieving your Canadian immigration goals.