Geography of Yukon

Yukon is located in the far northwest corner of Canada, bordered by Alaska to the west, the Northwest Territories to the east, and British Columbia to the south. It spans approximately 482,443 square kilometers, making it the smallest of Canada’s three territories. Despite its size, Yukon has a population of only about 42,000 people, which contributes to its reputation for vast, unspoiled landscapes and peaceful, rural living.

Yukon is known for its stunning natural beauty, with towering mountain ranges, pristine rivers, and abundant wildlife. The territory is part of the larger boreal forest region, with dense forests and wetlands in the southern areas. To the north, the landscape becomes more rugged and remote, with tundra and mountains such as the Saint Elias Range. One of the territory’s most famous geographical features is the Yukon River, which runs through much of the territory, providing a vital waterway for both historic travel and modern commerce.

The climate of Yukon is classified as subarctic, with long, cold winters and short, warm summers. In the winter, temperatures can plummet to below -30°C, particularly in the interior regions, while summers bring more temperate conditions with daily highs ranging from 15°C to 20°C. The land’s vast wilderness, along with its sparse population, offers incredible opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, kayaking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The territory is also home to several national parks and protected areas, including Kluane National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its towering glaciers and high mountain peaks.

Yukon’s economy is heavily influenced by its natural resources, with industries such as mining, tourism, and government services forming the backbone of the economy. The territory is rich in mineral resources, including gold, silver, and copper, and has a long history tied to the Klondike Gold Rush. Tourism also plays a significant role, drawing visitors to experience its stunning wilderness, rich cultural heritage, and unique landscapes.

Yukon Nominee Program (YNP)

The Yukon Nominee Program (YNP) is designed to help individuals who wish to immigrate to Yukon through the provincial nominee system. The YNP allows the territory to nominate skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and other individuals who meet the territory’s labor market needs. If you are a qualified applicant, the YNP offers a pathway to permanent residency in Canada.

The YNP operates in alignment with Canada’s federal immigration system and provides a nomination that can help applicants apply for permanent residency. Candidates are selected based on their work experience, skills, education, and ability to contribute to the economy and community of Yukon. There are several pathways within the YNP, each tailored to different types of applicants.

Key Streams of the Yukon Nominee Program

1. Skilled Worker Stream The Skilled Worker Stream is for individuals who have the necessary skills and experience to work in an occupation in high demand in Yukon. To qualify, candidates must have a full-time job offer from a Yukon employer in a skilled occupation (NOC 0, A, or B). Applicants must also meet certain language requirements (typically a CLB level of 4 or higher in either English or French) and demonstrate that they have the required qualifications and work experience for the position. This stream allows individuals with in-demand skills to live and work in Yukon permanently.
2. Critical Impact Worker Stream This stream is intended for individuals who have a job offer from a Yukon employer in a low- or semi-skilled occupation (NOC C or D). The Critical Impact Worker Stream addresses the immediate labor market needs of Yukon’s employers in industries such as hospitality, construction, retail, and manufacturing. The program allows foreign workers to settle in Yukon with a pathway to permanent residency once they have accumulated sufficient work experience in the territory.
3. Express Entry Stream The Yukon Express Entry Stream is for candidates who are already in the federal Express Entry pool and who meet the criteria for immigration to Canada. If an applicant is eligible for Express Entry and has a valid job offer in Yukon, they may be nominated for permanent residency through the YNP. Express Entry candidates who are nominated by Yukon receive an additional 600 points toward their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, dramatically improving their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) from the federal government.
4. Business Nominee Program The Business Nominee Program is aimed at entrepreneurs who wish to invest in and manage a business in Yukon. To qualify, applicants must have the skills and financial resources to invest in a business that will create jobs and contribute to the economy. Applicants are required to submit a business proposal outlining their investment plans and demonstrate their previous business experience. This program allows business owners and entrepreneurs to gain permanent residency in Yukon once their business has been established and is operating successfully.
5. International Graduate Stream The International Graduate Stream is intended for students who have completed their post-secondary education in Yukon. Graduates who have obtained a diploma, degree, or certificate from a recognized institution in Yukon and have a job offer from a Yukon employer may be eligible to apply through this stream. This stream helps to retain talent that has already become familiar with the local community and economy.
6. Skilled Trade Worker Stream The Skilled Trade Worker Stream is for individuals who have a valid job offer from a Yukon employer in a skilled trade. Applicants must have the necessary qualifications and work experience in their trade, and the job offer must align with Yukon’s labor market needs. This stream helps to fill specific skilled trade positions in the territory, such as electricians, plumbers, and carpenters.

Why Choose Yukon?

Yukon offers a unique opportunity for those looking to live in a peaceful, close-knit community with access to spectacular outdoor activities and a high quality of life. With its growing economy, demand for skilled workers, and beautiful natural surroundings, Yukon has become an increasingly popular destination for immigrants seeking a fulfilling life in Canada.

The cost of living in Yukon is relatively affordable compared to larger cities in southern Canada, and housing costs are lower in most areas of the territory. Yukon also boasts a strong healthcare system, excellent educational opportunities, and a supportive community that welcomes newcomers from all backgrounds. Immigrating to Yukon offers individuals the chance to contribute to a developing economy, while enjoying the benefits of a quieter, more relaxed lifestyle.

How to Apply for the Yukon Nominee Program

To apply for the Yukon Nominee Program, applicants must first determine which stream is best suited to their qualifications and experience. Once the appropriate stream is identified, candidates must submit an application, which will be reviewed by the Yukon Immigration office. If successful, candidates will receive a provincial nomination, which can be used to apply for permanent residency through the federal Express Entry system or other immigration pathways.

Start Your Immigration Journey with Yukon

If you’re ready to take the next step in your immigration journey and make Yukon your new home, we can help guide you through the application process. Our team of immigration professionals is here to provide assistance with your application, ensuring a smooth and successful transition to life in the beautiful Yukon territory.