The Northern Territory (NT) is a key destination for skilled migrants, thanks to its unique economy and a strong need to fill local workforce shortages. This information is based on the Department of Home Affairs’ Temporary Resident (Skilled) Report (current as of 30 June 2025). This data provides the latest insights for anyone thinking about applying for a visa.
As of 30 June 2025, the Northern Territory granted 1,020 primary skilled visa applications, which is a significant 30.7% increase from the previous year. This shows the Territory's ongoing commitment to attracting skilled professionals. The NT government's proactive approach is a big reason many skilled migrants are choosing to call the NT home.
What Skilled Visas Are Available in the NT?
If you're looking to move to the Northern Territory, matching your skills with the right visa is the most important step. Here’s a breakdown of the key pathways.
Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa
The subclass 190 visa is a permanent residency pathway. It's for skilled workers who are nominated by the Northern Territory government. To be eligible, your occupation must be on the NT's current occupation list. You'll also need to meet other requirements from the Department of Home Affairs, like having a full migration skills assessment and competent English. In some cases, the NT government may also want to see evidence that you have lived and worked in the Territory for a continuous period before you apply.
Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa
The subclass 491 visa is a 5-year provisional visa for skilled workers who are willing to live and work in the Northern Territory. This visa offers a clear pathway to permanent residency, usually after three years, as long as you meet the regional work and residence requirements.
Applicants for the 491 visa can be nominated by the NT government. You might also be eligible if you are sponsored by an eligible relative who is a long-term resident of the Northern Territory.
Unsure which pathway (190 or 491) is right for you? Our registered migration agents can help clarify your options. Chat with us today.
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Book a Consultation
If you are interested in getting more information about a visa, get in touch with Australian Migration Agents for a consultation.
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Employer-Sponsored Visa Pathways
The report also shows just how important employer sponsorship is. Employer-sponsored visas are the most common pathway for skilled workers moving from temporary visas to permanent residence.
The Skills in Demand (SID) Visa (formerly Subclass 482)
The new Skills in Demand (SID) visa program started on 7 December 2024, replacing the old Subclass 482 (TSS) visa. This visa allows employers to sponsor skilled workers to fill labour shortages. It offers three different streams (Core Skills, Specialist Skills, and Labour Agreement) and provides a clear pathway to permanent residency for all applicants.
A verifiable job offer from an NT employer is essential for this visa. You must also meet other requirements, such as being employed in your nominated (or a related) occupation.
In-Demand Industries & Top Jobs in the NT
The June 2025 report shows that demand for skilled workers is strong across several key NT industries.
- Health Care and Social Assistance: 280 grants (+118.6%)
- Construction: 160 grants (+91.6%)
- Other Services: 140 grants (+2.3%)
- Accommodation and Food Services: 110 grants (+34.1%)
- Education and Training: 60 grants (+31.9%)
- Professional, Scientific and Technical Services: 60 grants (-1.6%)
These figures show big opportunities in healthcare, construction, and hospitality.
Top 15 In-Demand Occupations
The top nominated occupations for primary applications granted in the NT during 2024–25 include:
- Resident Medical Officer (253112)
- Registered Nurse (Medical) (254418)
- Child Care Worker (421111)
- Motor Mechanic (General) (321211)
- Aged or Disabled Carer (423111)
- Mechanical Engineering Technician (312512)
- Welder (First Class) (322313)
- Hairdresser (391111)
- Chef (351311)
- Cook (351411)
- Diesel Motor Mechanic (321212)
- Primary School Teacher (241213)
- Painting Trades Worker (332211)
- Retail Supervisor (621511)
- General Practitioner (253111)
This data shows the NT is prioritising skilled professionals in healthcare, education, and trades, as well as community services and hospitality.
Is your occupation on the list? Our team at Australian Migration Agents can check your eligibility and guide you on the next steps. Book a consultation today.
Key Requirements for an NT Nomination
Getting an NT state nomination involves meeting several key criteria.
Skills Assessment & Points Test
The Australian Government's migration points test is a key part of the process. Your score is based on factors like your age, English skills, and work experience. A migration skills assessment is mandatory for many skilled visa types. This checks that your qualifications and skills meet the Australian standard for your nominated occupation.
Tip: A positive skills assessment is mandatory for the 190 and 491 visas. These can take time to get, so it's a good idea to start this process as early as possible.
Your Skilled Employment
Your work history is a critical part of your nomination. For many applicants, you must show genuine and sustained efforts to find work in the NT. The NT government wants to know you are committed to settling in the region.
Some applicants may need to meet a six-month work experience requirement in their nominated occupation (or a closely related one). This work should be at ANZSCO skill level 1, 2, or 3. You may need to provide a verifiable job offer or detailed statements from your employer.
What Documents Will You Need?
To be successful, you must provide a range of documents. These include:
- A certified copy of your skills assessment.
- Your English language test results (e.g., PTE Academic or IELTS).
- A copy of your current visa and visa grant notice.
- Evidence of paid employment, such as payslips, contracts, and tax documents.
If you are relying on a job offer, your employment contract must be detailed. It needs to include your job title, the full names of you and your employer, business details, and a clear description of your duties.
Tip: Make sure your employment contract is robust and clear. It's a key piece of evidence, especially for proving your work history.
Top 15 Countries for NT Skilled Migrants
The NT attracts a diverse group of skilled migrants. The highest numbers of primary visa grants came from the following countries:
- Philippines: 240 grants
- India: 140 grants
- United Kingdom: 80 grants
- Sri Lanka: 50 grants
- Nepal: 40 grants
- Indonesia: 40 grants
- South Africa: 30 grants
- Vietnam: 30 grants
- China, Peoples Republic of (excl SARS): 30 grants
- Fiji: 30 grants
- United States of America: 30 grants
- Zimbabwe: 20 grants
- Japan: 20 grants
- France: 20 grants
- Ireland, Republic of: 20 grants
How We Can Help Your NT Visa Journey
The NT nomination process has many specific rules. Our team at Australian Migration Agents is here to help you gather the right evidence, prepare a strong application, and show your genuine commitment to the Territory. We can also provide guidance on what evidence is needed to prove your financial capacity and paid employment.
Chat with us today to get started on your NT migration journey.
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