The Government of Yukon has announced a shift to an intake-based approach for the Yukon Nominee Program (YNP) beginning in 2025. This change aims to improve the management of applications and ensure a more structured nomination process.
Under the new system, the YNP will accept a fixed number of applications during scheduled intakes. Once the cap is reached for a specific intake, the program will temporarily stop accepting applications until the next round.
Key Details of the New System
On January 29, 2025, the Yukon Nominee Program (YNP) will open its initial intake, with a cap of 125 applications for nomination. Once this cap is reached, no further applications will be accepted until the next intake period.
The YNP plans to hold quarterly intakes, although no fixed schedule has been set. The timing and number of applications accepted during each intake will be determined by the nomination allocations Yukon receives from the Canadian federal government. In response to the growing demand, Yukon has formally sought an increase in its nomination allocations for 2025 to better accommodate the influx of applications.
Why the Change?
Previously, the YNP operated without fixed intake periods or caps, accepting applications year-round. However, 2024 saw a significant surge in applications, surpassing the territory’s nomination allocation.
As a measure to address the surge in applications, the YNP temporarily suspended the acceptance of applications from employers based in Whitehorse, Yukon’s capital city. The new intake system is designed to address these challenges by ensuring applications are distributed throughout the year, enhancing efficiency and accessibility.
About the Yukon Nominee Program
The YNP is an employer-driven immigration program that addresses local labor market needs by enabling employers to nominate skilled foreign workers for permanent residency.
Applicants must work closely with their employers to submit a joint application. Approved candidates are granted a territorial nomination, enabling them to proceed with their application for permanent residence to the federal government.
Implications for Applicants
This intake-based approach is expected to:
- Streamline application processing.
- Provide equal opportunities for applicants throughout the year.
- Ensure nominations are aligned with federal allocations.
The upcoming changes reflect Yukon’s commitment to adapting its immigration system to meet increasing demand while maintaining efficiency. For personalized assistance and expert guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
