In a landmark announcement, the Northwest Territories (NWT) has reached its nomination cap for the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) for the first time in 2024. On July 22, the territory revealed that it had exceeded its cap of 300 nominations for the Northwest Territory Nominee Program (NTNP), allocated by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
As a result, the program will no longer accept new applications for the remainder of the year. However, exceptions will be made for foreign nationals with work permits expiring in 2024 and those who meet all eligibility criteria and have been working in the NWT during the year.
The 300 nomination cap was specifically set for the Employer-Driven and Francophone Streams, while the NWT will continue to accept applications for the Business Stream. According to the territorial government, applications currently under review will receive a decision by fall 2024.
This early cap achievement highlights a surge of interest in Canada’s northern regions. In comparison, the territory issued 139 nominations in 2023, 100 in 2022, and only 62 in 2021. While the NWT’s nomination numbers are smaller compared to other provinces, the increase in applications suggests that the territory could benefit from a higher annual nomination allocation in future years.
PNPs exist across Canada, with the exception of Quebec and Nunavut. Each province and territory receives a set number of nominations from the IRCC, allowing them to select economic immigration candidates best suited to local labor markets. Once nominated, candidates are in a stronger position to secure permanent residency.
The number of nominations allocated depends on factors such as population size and economic needs. For instance, Ontario, the most populous province in Canada, received the highest number of nominations in 2024.
Canada’s territories—NWT, Yukon, and Nunavut—cover vast areas north of the Arctic Circle but are sparsely populated. Despite covering 40% of Canada’s land mass, they account for only 3% of its population. The harsh climate and long winters contribute to this low density. The NWT, with a population of 44,920, boasts the highest median household income in the country, making it an attractive option for newcomers.
Territories differ from provinces in their governance. While provinces have constitutional powers, territories operate under the authority of the Canadian Parliament.
This surge in interest could mark a significant shift in economic immigration trends in Canada’s northern regions.