YouTube Raises The Bar: New Creators Will Need Double The Watch Time And Views To Earn

KATHMANDU, August 12, 2026

YouTube Sets Higher Bar For Future Creators

YouTube is introducing stricter requirements for creators who want to earn money through its YouTube Partner Program (YPP). Starting February 1, 2027, new creators will need to achieve higher performance targets before becoming eligible for advertisement and premium revenue sharing. The platform says the changes are designed to improve content quality and create a stronger creator economy.

The updated rules will apply to creators joining the monetization program after the new system comes into effect.

Current Monetization Requirements

Currently, creators can qualify for the YouTube Partner Program by meeting one of these requirements:

• Long-form video creators: Need 4,000 valid public watch hours within the last 12 months.

These requirements allow eligible creators to start earning through YouTube advertisements and other revenue-sharing features.

New Monetization Requirements From 2027

Under the updated rules starting February 1, 2027, YouTube will increase the eligibility requirements:

• Long-form video creators: Will need 8,000 valid public watch hours within 365 days.

• Shorts creators: Will need 20 million valid Shorts views within 90 days.

The new system means beginners will need to build a larger audience and generate significantly more engagement before accessing monetization.

Existing Creators Will Not Face New Entry Rules

The changes will not affect creators who are already part of the YouTube Partner Program.

YouTube has stated that more than 3 million existing monetized creators will continue receiving their current benefits under the existing conditions.

The updated requirements will mainly apply to new creators trying to enter the program after February 2027.

Shorts Creators Must Maintain View Targets

YouTube is also introducing new conditions for creators earning revenue from Shorts advertisements.

Under the updated system:

• Creators must maintain at least 10 million Shorts views within a 90-day period to continue receiving Shorts ad revenue.

• Channels that fall below the required view count may temporarily lose Shorts monetization.

• Earnings can resume automatically once creators reach the required view target again.

Why YouTube Is Raising The Requirements

YouTube says the changes are focused on supporting creators who consistently produce valuable content and maintain strong audience engagement.

The company believes higher eligibility standards will help create a healthier platform by rewarding creators who build long-term communities rather than relying on short-term viral content.

New Support Options For Smaller Creators

Alongside stricter monetization requirements, YouTube is also planning additional ways to support smaller creators who are still growing.

Possible opportunities include:

• Creator bonus programs

• Brand partnership opportunities

• Shopping features

• Additional earning options outside traditional advertisements

These features are expected to provide alternative ways for emerging creators to earn while building their audience.

YouTube Expects Higher Creator Earnings

Despite increasing the requirements, YouTube says creators could receive higher overall payments in 2027 compared to 2026.

The company is also expanding revenue opportunities through subscription services, including Premium-based earnings, where creators receive revenue based on viewer engagement.

Creators Must Accept Updated Terms

Before the new rules officially begin, creators participating in the YouTube Partner Program will need to review and accept the updated terms through YouTube Studio.

Future creators will need to focus on consistent uploads, audience growth, and improving engagement to meet the new standards.

Impact On Future YouTubers

The new requirements could make it more difficult for beginners to start earning from YouTube.

However, YouTube says the changes are intended to create better opportunities for dedicated creators who consistently produce engaging content and develop loyal audiences.