Yukon Nominee Program (YNP) - How It Works • Peel Out

If you wish to live and work in Yukon, the Yukon Nominee Program (YNP) offers excellent prospects. Mostly oriented toward individuals who contribute to the economy in Yukon, it is a part of the Canadian Provincial Nominee program. Successful candidates go on to become provincial nominees and obtain the status of permanent residents. Below, you can see whether you meet the conditions and requirements needed to immigrate via the program.

Why Yukon?

Yukon is one of the three territories of Canada (alongside the Northwest Territories and Nunavut). English and French are the official languages. Additionally, the Yukon Government recognizes the importance of First Nation languages, and they are protected and considered a part of historical heritage. The city of Whitehorse is the cultural capital of northern Canada.

Yukon is home to Mount Logan, the highest mountain in Canada. In addition to hiking, tourism in the territory is heavily influenced by cold and long winters. There’s a possibility for numerous activities such as ice climbing, skiing, and snowboarding. Moreover, you can witness the majestic phenomenon of Aurora Borealis (northern lights) across the territory.

The industries that make up the economy of Yukon are hydroelectricity and manufacturing. Work-life balance is favorable, and social security is stable. Additionally, the healthcare system in Yukon is of great quality. Hence, it won’t be difficult to adapt to such profitable conditions if you immigrate to the territory.

Yukon Nominee Program (YNP) – From A to Z

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada and the Government of Yukon introduced the YNP to welcome individuals who can strengthen the economy. The legal requirements depend on a particular stream of the Yukon Nominee Program. There are four of them:

#1 – Skilled Worker Stream

Individuals with a permanent job offer from a Yukon employer can move under the Skilled Worker Stream. Your future employer should request the work permit for you. The condition is that they attest they were unable to find suitable candidates from Yukon residents and that you are the best candidate for the vacancy. Therefore, they should advertise the job vacancy at least four weeks before they submit the documentation proving effort was first made to find workers from Yukon.

Also, to qualify as a skilled worker, your profession should fit the in-demand position, as proposed by Yukon authorities. Most of the occupations from NOC skill levels 0, A, and B fall under this category. Nevertheless, even candidates who specialize in in-demand occupations may find it challenging to get a job offer in Canada. However, there are numerous ways to increase your chances of landing a job.

Furthermore, you ought to fulfill the language requirements of the stream:

For NOC skill level 0 & A, proof that your skills are at or above CLB 7,
For NOC skill level B, proof that your skills are at or above CLB 5.

Language tests that are valid for the verification of your proficiency are CELPIP-General Tests or IELTS for English, and TEF for French.

#2 – Critical Impact Worker Stream

Employment prospects also drive the Critical Impact Worker Stream. Thus, If you intend to settle in Yukon and have a full-time job offer in lower-skilled occupations, you can apply under this pathway. Also, you need a minimum of six months of related work experience. Similarly to the Skilled Worker Stream, your employer has to demonstrate that the job was advertised to Yukon citizens prior to your application. Also, for this stream, you can have a lower level of proficiency (equivalent to CLB 4).

#3 – Business Nominee Stream (Entrepreneur)

If you have what it takes to become a successful investor in a business in Yukon, you can become a part of its thriving entrepreneurial scene via this stream. The minimum criteria are:

Three years of experience as a senior manager or a major shareholder
The net worth of $CAD 500,000
Invest a minimum of $CAD 300,000

To set up a business in the territory, you need to send your application and the necessary documentation. If they determine that it is valid, you can book an appointment with a Yukon Government Immigration Officer. At the interview, you will propose your Business Plan, and they will grant you permission to establish a business. After you operate the business for two consecutive years, Yukon will evaluate your success. In other words, they will check whether you have adhered to the terms of the plan (e.g., created job opportunities in the territory). Provided that the outcome is positive, you’ll become a nominee under the Business stream.

#4 – Yukon Nominee Program Express Entry

Finally, Express Entry candidates can also apply for the Yukon Nominee Program if they have an employment offer in skilled occupations. The Express Entry Program is split into three categories. So, applicants under this stream also have to fulfill requirements for one of the Express Entry Streams. Competent candidates should submit an Expression of Interest for Yukon, which serves as a cue that they are interested particularly in this territory. The Yukon Department of Economic Development then selects the most successful candidates and invites them to apply for the YNP.

Final Words on Yukon Nominee Program (YNP)

Now that you’ve read the full eligibility criteria, you can determine whether you qualify for a certain category of the Yukon Nominee Program (YNP).

If you have the demanded skills, your application can lead to the status of the provincial nominee of YNP. It’s a straightforward route to become a holder of a permanent residence permit.