Employer-Driven Stream Fully Transitions to EOI Model
According to the official announcement, the new EOI selection system will apply solely to the Employer-Driven Stream under the provincial nominee program. This stream encompasses three specific application pathways:
- Entry Level/Semi-Skilled Occupations
- Skilled Worker
- NWT Express Entry
The updated process requires joint participation from both the employer and the prospective nominee. The employer initiates the process by registering for an online account and selecting the appropriate Employer-Driven stream. Once the employer completes their portion, the candidate must fill out an EOI survey, which automatically generates a profile that is placed into a candidate pool for screening.
EOI Scoring System and Point Distribution
Once in the pool, the Northwest Territories government will score and rank candidates based on several key indicators. The highest-scoring profiles will be invited to apply in subsequent EOI draws. The scoring categories and their maximum respective points are as follows:
- Connections to the NWT labour market: maximum 340 points
- Adaptability to the NWT: maximum 130 points
- Language: maximum 125 points
- Work experience: maximum 100 points
- Education: maximum 100 points
- Age: maximum 50 points
Applicants can review the detailed point breakdown in the official Points Grid document.
It is important to note that the Francophone Stream and the Business Stream remain unaffected by the new EOI system and will continue to operate on the existing first-come, first-served basis. Furthermore, official applications submitted by invited candidates will be assessed in the order they are received.
Background of the Policy Shift and Public Feedback
The decision to transition to an EOI model follows public consultations conducted in September 2025. During these sessions, participants—including local employers, prospective immigrants, and community members—expressed a clear preference for a more straightforward application process, enhanced system transparency, and a nominee program better tailored to the territory's actual labor market demands.
The territorial government noted that the Employer-Driven Stream generates the highest demand and interest. The new EOI screening mechanism will effectively help the government manage the large volume of applications, while other streams with comparatively lower demand do not require such a system.
Caitlin Cleveland, Minister of Education, Culture and Employment, commented on the shift: “These changes will ensure the NWT benefits from the talent it needs and help more newcomers build lasting roots in our communities—strengthening both the territory’s social and economic vibrancy for the long term.”
Outlook for 2026 EOI Draws
The Northwest Territories plans to conduct multiple EOI draws for the Employer-Driven Stream throughout 2026. The inaugural draw is slated for March 25, which is expected to issue invitations to up to 65 eligible candidates. As of this writing, the territorial government has not explicitly announced the total number of draws planned for the entire year.
