Northwest Territories Nominee Program Postponement Announced

The Northwest Territories government has announced a delay in the re-opening of its Northwest Territories Nominee Program (NTNP). Initially scheduled to open on January 16, 2025, the program's launch has been postponed due to changes in federal allocation targets.

What Was Planned for the NTNP Re-Opening?

The NTNP had originally planned to accept 100 applications for territorial nominations during its first intake period in 2025. These nominations offer foreign nationals a pathway to Canadian permanent residence.

However, due to recent developments, applicants looking to use the NTNP for their immigration journey will need to wait until a revised opening date is announced. The territorial government has assured that it remains committed to re-opening the program and will provide updates "as soon as possible."

Why Was the Re-Opening Postponed?

The delay stems from a significant reduction in the NTNP’s federal nomination allocation. In 2024, the NTNP had been allocated 300 nominations, but on January 15, 2025, the federal government informed the territory that its allocation for 2025 would be halved to 150 nominations.

This reduction prompted the territorial government to pause and re-evaluate its plans for the program to ensure it aligns with the new allocation limits.

Federal Reductions Impacting NTNP and Provincial Programs

The NTNP’s reduced allocation is part of a broader cutback by the federal government to the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). In its 2025 Immigration Levels Plan, announced on October 24, 2024, the federal government reduced the PNP's landing target from 110,000 in 2024 to 55,000 in 2025—a drastic 50% cut.

In contrast, overall immigration levels were reduced by only 20%, showing a more significant impact on provincial programs. Simultaneously, allocations for federal economic immigration programs managed through Express Entry increased, with 124,680 landings targeted in 2025 compared to 110,770 in 2024.

Focus on Federal Economic Immigration Programs

The federal government is channeling resources toward specific immigration categories, including:

• In-Canada Focus: Prioritizing applicants already residing in Canada.
• Federal Economic Priorities: Supporting French-speaking immigrants and those working in healthcare and trades.

What’s Next for NTNP Applicants?

Applicants hoping to use the NTNP for permanent residence will need to remain patient as the territorial government finalizes its updated plans. In the meantime, assessing eligibility for other enhanced PNP programs or exploring federal pathways through Express Entry might be worthwhile alternatives.