NTNP issues first draw invitations for 2026 under new system
The Northwest Territories Nominee Program (NTNP) has conducted its first selection round of 2026 following a shift to an Expression of Interest (EOI) system earlier this year.
A total of 65 candidates were invited on March 25 through the Employer-Driven Stream, according to information released by the territorial government on April 16.
The draw marks the first instance of candidate selection under the updated intake model, reflecting changes implemented in response to increased demand for nominations.
- 65 invitations issued in the March 25 NTNP draw
- Selection conducted through the Employer-Driven Stream
- 295 candidate profiles were in the pool at the time of selection
- EOI scores ranged from 417 to 597
- Most invitations issued through the NWT Express Entry pathway
- Two additional draws scheduled for June and September 2026
March 25 draw results
The March 25 selection round invited the highest-ranked candidates from a pool of 295 profiles. Invitations were distributed across three pathways within the Employer-Driven Stream.
Of the total invitations issued, 32 were allocated to the NWT Express Entry pathway, while 20 were issued through the Skilled Worker category. A further 13 invitations went to candidates in the Entry Level/Semi-Skilled pathway.
Nearly half of all invitations were issued through the Express Entry-linked pathway, making it the largest share of the draw.
The minimum and maximum scores recorded in this round ranged from 417 to 597 under the EOI ranking system.
Upcoming draw schedule for 2026
The territorial government has confirmed two additional selection rounds for the Employer-Driven Stream in 2026. Each draw is expected to invite up to 65 candidates.
The next rounds are scheduled for June 25 and September 25. Submission deadlines apply ahead of each selection date.
For the June draw, candidate profiles must be submitted by June 22. For the September round, the submission deadline is September 22.
Authorities have indicated that score thresholds will vary for each round depending on the composition of the candidate pool at the time of selection.
Transition to an Expression of Interest system
The NTNP introduced an Expression of Interest system for the Employer-Driven Stream in early 2026, replacing the previous first-come, first-served intake approach.
The change was implemented following sustained demand for nominations, which exceeded available program capacity. The EOI model allows for ranking candidates based on defined selection criteria.
Under the new system, eligible candidates submit profiles and are assigned scores. Invitations are then issued to top-ranking individuals during scheduled draws.
EOI scoring factors
Candidate profiles are assessed using a points-based grid that considers several categories. Skills and experience account for the largest portion of available points, including language proficiency, education, work history, and age.
Additional points are awarded based on connections to the Northwest Territories, such as current employment, job offers in specific occupations, or prior work experience in the territory.
Factors related to settlement potential are also assessed, including family ties in the region or previous post-secondary education completed in the Northwest Territories.
The final score determines a candidate’s ranking within the selection pool.
Employer-driven application process
The Employer-Driven Stream requires participation from both employers and candidates. The process begins with a valid job offer from an employer based in the Northwest Territories.
Employers must first register in the NTNP online system and create a candidate profile. Candidates then complete and submit their Expression of Interest using the provided account.
Following submission, the territorial government evaluates and scores each profile. Candidates who receive invitations can proceed to the nomination application stage, which is submitted by the employer on their behalf.
Profiles that are not selected remain active in the pool for up to 12 months from the date of submission.
Context within provincial nominee programs
The NTNP is one of several provincial and territorial immigration pathways across Canada that operate independently to address regional labour market needs. These programs complement federal immigration systems, including Express Entry.
Many provinces, including Manitoba, have adopted similar selection models that rank candidates based on labour market alignment and settlement factors. Additional information about Manitoba’s system is available through the Manitoba PNP points framework.
Selection practices vary by jurisdiction, but EOI systems have become a common feature to manage high application volumes.
Ongoing updates expected
The release of draw results and the annual schedule provides greater visibility into NTNP selection activity for 2026. Further updates are expected following each scheduled round.
Additional details on candidate selection and nomination allocations may be published as the program continues to operate under the revised intake model.
Coverage of Canadian immigration programs continues to track developments across federal and provincial systems.