YouTube is reportedly making monetization tougher for new creators by increasing the watch-time requirement needed to qualify for its Partner Program. Under the reported changes, creators may need 8,000 valid public watch hours within the required period, while Shorts creators could need 20 million Shorts views within 90 days to meet the alternative threshold.
The stricter requirements could create a major challenge for smaller channels that are still building an audience. New creators will now have to focus more heavily on consistent content, viewer retention and genuine audience engagement to reach monetization targets.
For creators relying on long-form videos, reaching thousands of hours of watch time can take considerable effort, particularly for channels without an established subscriber base. Shorts creators, meanwhile, face the challenge of generating millions of views in a relatively short period.
YouTube Introduces New Parental Controls to Limit or Block Shorts for Kids
The move is likely aimed at ensuring that monetized channels demonstrate meaningful audience engagement and consistent content performance rather than relying on low-quality or mass-produced uploads.
For aspiring YouTubers, the message is clear: building a sustainable audience may matter more than simply chasing viral views.
Will these new requirements make it harder for Pakistani creators to earn from YouTube? Share your thoughts below.
