YouTube pilots allowing terminated creators to request new channels

YouTube on October 9, 2025 announced a limited pilot that will allow some creators whose channels were previously terminated to request a new account and potentially republish videos, provided they meet eligibility requirements and wait at least one year after termination. The program marks a departure from the platform's longstanding stance that termination was permanent and is being rolled out gradually as YouTube reviews applications individually.

Under the pilot, eligible creators who log into YouTube Studio on desktop with credentials linked to a terminated channel may see an option to request a new channel. If approved, they will receive a fresh channel with no subscribers, no monetization and no preserved safety net. Creators may reupload past videos only if those videos comply with YouTube's current Community Guidelines. They can apply for the YouTube Partner Program for monetization once the new channel meets eligibility criteria, but enforcement will proceed as with any new account and repeat offenses can result in permanent removal with no further reinstatement.

YouTube said applications will be judged on factors including the severity and persistence of prior...