Northwest Territories Nominee Program (NTNP)

The Northwest Territories is a Canadian territory characterized by its large land area and slightly milder climate compared to other territories. Due to its low population density, there are numerous employment opportunities for foreign workers. Below are the pathways to qualify for permanent residency through the NTNP.

Northwest Territories PNP Skilled Worker Stream

Note: The Self-Employed Stream of the Business Driven Program is permanently closed.

Foreign nationals with a job offer in a skilled occupation from a Northwest Territories employer may qualify if they meet the necessary licensing, certification, and language requirements. Employers must:

• Have a vacancy and a candidate to nominate.
• Be in good standing with the Workers’ Safety and Compensation Commission (WSCC) and the Employment Standards Office.
• Have operated a registered business for at least one year.
• Have made recruitment efforts among Canadian citizens and permanent residents, providing a summary of these efforts.
• Submit a positive Labour Market Opinion (LMO) or complete Section 1.C of the Skilled Worker Application Form if they do not have an LMO.

After the employer's application, the nominee must demonstrate:

• Accreditation or certification for the position, meeting territorial requirements.
• Relevant work experience.
• Sufficient financial resources to support themselves in the Northwest Territories.
• Proficiency in English or French.

Note: Refugee claimants are not eligible for nomination under this program.

Employer Driven Program - Northwest Territories Express Entry Stream

Candidates eligible for the federal Express Entry pool through the Federal Skilled Worker, Federal Skilled Trades, or Canadian Experience Class programs may also qualify for the Northwest Territories Express Entry Stream, which nominates individuals meeting the Skilled Worker Stream criteria.

Northwest Territories PNP Critical Impact Worker Stream

This stream is for foreign nationals in low-skilled or unskilled jobs who have been working in the Northwest Territories for at least six months. Eligibility requirements include:

• Receiving a full-time, permanent job offer.
• Meeting necessary skills, experience, and language proficiency for the job.
• Demonstrating financial self-sufficiency.

Employers must:

• Have a potential candidate for the vacant position.
• Be in good standing with the WSCC and the Employment Standards Office.
• Have been registered as a business for at least six months.
• Provide evidence of recruitment efforts among Canadian citizens and permanent residents, including a summary of results.
• Submit a positive Labour Market Opinion (LMO).

Nominees must also apply and demonstrate:

• A temporary work permit allowing them to work in Canada.
• At least six months of experience in the same position.
• Any required work experience for the position.
• Proficiency in English or French, validated by language testing from an approved agency.

Note: Refugee claimants are not eligible for nomination under this program.

Business Driven Program - Northwest Territories PNP Entrepreneur Business Stream

Individuals wishing to invest in or start a business in the Northwest Territories may qualify if they meet the following criteria:

• Plan to invest at least CAD $300,000 in a Yellowknife business or CAD $150,000 outside Yellowknife.
• Demonstrate a net worth of at least CAD $500,000 for businesses in Yellowknife or CAD $250,000 outside.
• Make a refundable deposit of CAD $75,000 to guarantee execution of a Performance Agreement.
• Show knowledge of the local market and economy.
• Have basic proficiency in English or French.
• Meet minimum skills and education requirements for their business plan.

Northwest Territories PNP Self-Employed Business Stream

This stream is designed for individuals whose skills or professions are in demand in the territory and who hold the necessary licenses or accreditation. To qualify, applicants must:

• Demonstrate basic proficiency in English or French.
• Have knowledge of the social, economic, and geographic conditions in the Northwest Territories.
• Show sufficient funds to support themselves while practicing their profession for at least six months.
• Prepare a detailed business plan outlining their proposals for practicing in the territory.
• Be employed in an occupation that is considered a professional skill shortage.
• Meet any specific requirements for their profession in Canada (such as necessary certifications or accreditations).