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Yukon introduces new EOI system for its Nominee Program

In a significant shift to its immigration strategy, the Yukon territory has introduced a new Expression of Interest (EOI) system for the Yukon Nominee Program (YNP) in 2025. This change aims to streamline the permanent residency (PR) nomination process and align it more closely with the territory's labour market needs.

Previously, the YNP operated on a first-come, first-served basis, allowing employers to submit applications directly for foreign workers. However, with the increasing demand for nominations and a reduced allocation from the federal government, Yukon recognised the need for a more strategic approach. The EOI system replaces the traditional model, enabling the territory to prioritise candidates who best meet its economic and community objectives.

In January 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) informed Yukon of a 50% reduction in its nominee program allocations for the year, decreasing from 430 to 215 nominations. This significant cut necessitated a more efficient and targeted selection process to ensure that the limited spots are allocated to candidates who can make the most substantial contributions to the territory.

The new EOI system is designed to manage the high demand for nominations by allowing employers to express their interest in nominating foreign workers without submitting a full application initially. Instead, employers complete a simplified online form providing basic information about the prospective nominee. The Yukon government then reviews these expressions and invites selected employers to submit comprehensive applications based on predefined priorities.

Given the limited number of nominations available, Yukon has established specific criteria to prioritise candidates who are most likely to contribute positively to the territory. The priorities for 2025 include:

• Individuals who have completed their studies at Yukon University.
• Foreign nationals who have lived and worked in Yukon for at least one year.
• French-speaking individuals who have taken the required language proficiency test in French.
• Candidates who have received a letter of support under the temporary measure for expiring work permits.

Temporary measure for expiring work permits

To support foreign workers whose work permits are expiring, Yukon introduced a temporary measure allowing eligible individuals to apply for a Yukon-specific work permit valid for up to two years. To qualify, candidates must have been living and working in Yukon as of May 16, 2024, have a work permit that expired or will expire between January 1 and December 31, 2025, and have an employer planning to nominate them for PR through the YNP in 2025 or 2026.

The request period for this temporary measure opened on March 19, 2025, and closed on April 2, 2025. This initiative aims to provide stability for workers and employers during the transition to the new EOI system.

Each EOI must be submitted separately for each foreign worker, and only the primary employer should submit the expression if the worker has multiple employers.

What happens next?

After the EOI intake period closes, the Yukon government reviews all submissions and selects candidates based on the established priorities and the territory's labour market needs. Selected employers receive invitations to submit full applications for their nominees. It's important to note that submitting an EOI does not guarantee an invitation to apply or a nomination.

Once a full application is submitted and approved, the nominee can apply for permanent residency through IRCC. During this process, the nominee may continue working in Yukon under a temporary work permit until their PR application is processed.

Yukon's shift to an Expression of Interest system for its Nominee Program in 2025 reflects a strategic approach to immigration, focusing on the territory's specific labour market needs and community integration goals. By prioritising candidates who are already contributing to the local economy and society, Yukon aims to build a more sustainable and responsive immigration framework.

While the reduced federal allocation presents challenges, the new system offers a structured and transparent process for selecting nominees who are most likely to thrive in Yukon. Employers and foreign workers must adapt to this new model, ensuring that their applications align with the territory's priorities to enhance their chances of success.

As Yukon continues to refine its immigration strategies, the EOI system stands as a testament to its commitment to fostering a vibrant, diverse, and economically resilient community.

If you are looking to Study, Work, Visit or Migrate to Canada, talk to I Can Help Immigration Services, at +1 778 239 7861 or +1 647 453 7660 with RCIC # R413239, Canada’s No.1 Immigration & Visa Company to get the best help you need.