Northern Territory Continues Skilled Nomination with Focus on Local Workers

The Northern Territory Government is maintaining robust state-nomination activity under both the Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated) and Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional) visa streams. Recent announcements emphasise that priority will be given to applicants who are already residing and working in the Territory. According to reports, the NT has also requested an increase in nomination allocations to support its regional workforce demands.

If you are already working and living in the Northern Territory, your chance of a successful nomination may be stronger than if you are applying purely offshore as they are clearly signalling preference for applicants with established ties to the Territory.

If you are offshore and have no close ties to the Northern Territory, you will need to wait for the updated offshore occupation list and apply under the priority occupation stream if eligible.

If you are residing in the Northern Territory, or residing offshore but planning to apply under the family stream or job offer stream, you can submit your EOI for the Subclass 491 to be considered for nomination.

Check occupation eligibility — Make sure your occupation is on the NT offshore occupation list for application under the priority occupation stream and eligible for Subclass 491.

Build your NT credentials — If you’re onshore, maintain continuous employment in your nominated occupation located in the Territory, and gather proof of residence, employer contract, payment evidence.

Demonstrate settlement intent — Preparing a comprehensive statement and documenting evidence of financial capacity to show your intention to live and work in the NT, research into NT job market, and settlement plans will strengthen your profile.

Prepare the documentation — Skills assessment, English test, EOI (Expression of Interest) and NT nomination application (when opened) should be ready.

Keep a close watch on updates — Since nomination allocation and occupation lists can change, monitor the NT Government’s updates and invitation rounds so you can act as soon as they open.

For skilled migration applicants interested in the Northern Territory, now is a timely moment. While the NT continues to prioritise applicants already residing in the region, offshore candidates should not be deterred—preparation is key. By aligning your occupation, documentation, and settlement plans with the NT’s regional and workforce objectives, you position yourself strongly for nomination when the next invitation rounds open.