The Yukon Nominee Program allocation for 2026 has been officially confirmed, with the territorial government receiving 282 nomination spaces to support employers facing ongoing labour shortages. According to the announcement, the program will operate through two structured intake periods, giving businesses a clearer and more predictable pathway to hire and retain foreign workers already contributing to Yukon’s economy.

The intake windows for 2026 are scheduled for January 19 to January 30 and July 6 to July 17, during which employers can submit an online expression of interest for candidates they wish to nominate.

A More Targeted Intake Model for Employers

Under the updated system, employers will provide basic information about the foreign national they are sponsoring through an online form. Each submission will be scored against priority criteria, with the highest-ranking expressions of interest invited to submit a full application.

Employers who submitted expressions of interest in 2025 but were not selected will receive additional points, giving them a stronger chance in the upcoming intakes. This scoring-based approach is designed to balance fairness with Yukon’s urgent workforce needs.

Priority Categories for the 2026 Yukon Nominee Program

The Government of Yukon has outlined clear priority groups for the 2026 program. These include:

• Regulated health care professionals
• Employers located in rural Yukon
• Foreign nationals who have strong Yukon ties, including those who:
• Have lived and worked in Yukon for at least 1 year
• Graduated from Yukon University
• Are Francophone or French-speaking
• Received a Temporary Measure Letter of Support in 2024 or 2025

Candidates who received Temporary Measure Letters of Support in previous years do not need to submit a new expression of interest. These individuals will be contacted directly with instructions on how to complete their applications.

Focus on Retention, Not Just Recruitment

Yukon’s approach reflects a broader shift toward retaining workers who are already integrated into the territory, rather than relying solely on new arrivals. By prioritizing candidates with local experience, education, or long-term settlement plans, the program aims to strengthen communities while easing pressure on employers.

Minister of Economic Development Jen Gehmair emphasized that the program is designed to remain fair and transparent while continuing to support local businesses and residents who have already chosen Yukon as home.

Yukon’s Role Within Canada’s Immigration Framework

Nominee allocations are issued annually by the federal government, which determines how many permanent residence applications each province or territory can approve. In 2025, Yukon nominated 312 individuals, highlighting the territory’s continued reliance on immigration to support its economy.

The 2026 allocation comes alongside broader federal immigration initiatives, including new Express Entry categories and expanded pathways for health care professionals across Canada.

What Employers and Candidates Should Do Next

With limited nomination spaces and defined priority categories, preparation will be key. Employers are encouraged to review eligibility criteria early, gather documentation, and ensure their submissions align with Yukon’s economic needs.

For foreign workers already living in the territory, maintaining valid status and clear employment ties will remain essential as competition for nominations continues. Yukon’s 2026 Nominee Program reflects a clear strategy: support local employers, retain committed workers, and focus on sectors that matter most. Candidates with strong Yukon connections will continue to hold a competitive edge.

If you are an employer in Yukon or a foreign worker planning to apply under the Yukon Nominee Program in 2026, early preparation will be essential. Understanding priority categories, documentation requirements, and intake timelines can significantly improve your chances of success. For personalized guidance on provincial nominations and long-term settlement options, connect with ImmigCanada today.