YouTube is raising the minimum requirements for creators to qualify for revenue sharing through the YouTube Partner Program (YPP), making it harder for new creators to begin earning from the platform.
Under the new requirements, creators applying to YPP will need 8,000 qualified watch hours within 365 days or 20 million qualified Shorts views within 90 days. Both thresholds are double the previous requirements.
Existing creators will not automatically be removed from YPP for falling below the new thresholds. However, from February 1, 2027, channels will need at least 10 million qualified Shorts views within 90 days to remain eligible for advertising and subscription revenue sharing on Shorts.
Creators who fall below that threshold will remain in YPP and can continue earning from long-form content, with Shorts revenue sharing resuming once they reach 10 million views again.
YouTube also says it plans to introduce new earning opportunities for creators below the Shorts threshold, including bonuses linked to YouTube Shopping, incentives for brand deals and rewards for helping start and grow trends.
The changes highlight how major digital platforms are increasingly adjusting the requirements creators must meet before accessing revenue-sharing programmes.
