The Northern Territory (NT) has confirmed the opening of its General Skilled Migration (GSM) program for 2025-26 with a limited interim allocation. While the full allocation from the Australian Government is still pending, this partial release gives certain applicants a crucial opportunity to apply now.
If you are planning to live and work in the NT, you may be weighing up between the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) and the Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190). Here’s a breakdown of what each pathway offers, and which one may suit your circumstances best.
Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa
- Who it’s for: Skilled workers who commit to living and working in the NT for at least three years.
- Pathway to permanent residency: After meeting work and income requirements, 491 visa holders may transition to the subclass 191 permanent visa.
- NT eligibility: Applicants generally fall under the NT Graduate stream or the NT Resident stream.
- What’s open right now: With the interim allocation, subclass 491 nominations are currently available by exception for onshore applicants whose circumstances change before 31 December 2025:
- visa expiring before that date and no eligibility for a Temporary Graduate visa
- turning 45 before that date
- losing migration points due to age before that date (dropping below 65 points)
This makes the 491 visa the only immediately accessible pathway in NT under the interim allocation.
Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated (Permanent) visa
- Who it’s for: Skilled workers with stronger ties to the NT who are ready to apply directly for permanent residency.
- Pathway benefits: Immediate permanent residency, access to Medicare, and eligibility to apply for citizenship once residency requirements are met.
- NT eligibility: Similar to the 491, but with stricter criteria around long-term commitment to the Territory.
- Current status: The subclass 190 program is not available under the interim allocation. It is expected to open when NT receives its full 2025-26 allocation.
Which pathway is right for you?
- Choose the subclass 491 if your visa is expiring, you are close to turning 45, or your migration points will soon drop. This pathway allows you to secure your stay in the NT now.
- Consider the subclass 190 if you meet higher eligibility criteria, have strong NT ties, and are prepared to wait until the full allocation is released.
Both visas are valuable pathways, but the choice depends heavily on your timing, personal circumstances, and long-term goals.
Final thoughts
With the NT’s interim allocation now open, there is a small but critical window for eligible onshore applicants to act quickly. For others, patience will be required until the full program allocation is received. Understanding the differences between the 491 and 190 visas will help you prepare the strongest case once opportunities expand.
How Aurelia Legal can help
At Aurelia Legal, we help skilled migrants identify the right pathway and lodge strong applications under the Northern Territory’s nomination program. Whether you are eligible now under the subclass 491 or planning to apply for the subclass 190 when it reopens, our team can guide you every step of the way.
Contact us
📞 (03) 9125 8820
📧 info@aurelialegal.com.au
🌐 www.aurelialegal.com.au
Disclaimer: This article provides general information only and should not be taken as legal advice. Please seek tailored advice from a registered migration agent or lawyer for your specific circumstances.