YouTube has officially lowered the threshold to join its Partner Program, enabling more creators to start monetizing their content sooner.
However, Pakistan is notably absent from the list of countries eligible for the updated program.
As part of this global expansion, creators in select countries can now apply for the YouTube Partner Program (YPP) once they reach 500 subscribers, have three valid public uploads in the last 90 days, and meet either of the following watch criteria:
3,000 public watch hours in the past 12 months, or
3 million valid Shorts views in the last 90 days.
This move is designed to give earlier access to fan funding features such as Super Thanks, Super Chat, Super Stickers, and channel memberships. Some creators may also access Shopping features, if eligible.
To qualify, creators must also comply with YouTube’s monetization policies, enable 2-Step Verification on their Google Account, and have (or be ready to set up) an AdSense for YouTube account.
Despite the exciting update, creators in Pakistan will not benefit from this lowered threshold at this time. The expanded program is currently available in over 100 countries, including India, UAE, USA, UK, Saudi Arabia, Canada, Australia, and Nigeria, among others.
Creators who already meet the higher monetization standards—1,000 subscribers with 4,000 watch hours or 10 million Shorts views—will continue to enjoy ad revenue sharing and YouTube Premium earnings.
YouTube advises creators outside the supported regions, including Pakistan, to continue working toward the existing eligibility criteria. Pakistani users are encouraged to use the “Get Notified” option in YouTube Studio to receive updates if or when the new criteria become available in their country.
For now, Pakistani creators must still meet the old benchmarks to monetize—a continued challenge for emerging YouTubers in the region.
The absence of Pakistan from the expanded list has sparked disappointment among local content creators, who feel that despite strong engagement on the platform, they are being left behind in monetization opportunities. Many are now calling on YouTube to recognize the country’s growing creator community and extend the program’s benefits to Pakistan as well.