The Northern Territory (NT) has opened its General Skilled Migration (GSM) nomination program for 2025-26 under an interim allocation, making it more important than ever to understand the eligibility requirements. Whether you are applying for the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) or the Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190), meeting the NT Government’s nomination criteria is essential before you can be invited to apply.
General eligibility
To qualify for NT nomination, applicants must:
- Hold a valid skills assessment in an occupation listed on the NT’s skilled occupation list.
- Meet English language requirements.
- Achieve at least 65 points on the GSM points test.
- Show a genuine commitment to live and work in the Northern Territory for the long term.
Additional requirements for onshore applicants
If you are already in Australia, the NT Government applies extra criteria to ensure applicants are genuinely settled and contributing to the Territory:
- Employment must be in the NT
- Your job must be physically based in the Northern Territory.
- Your employer must have been actively trading in the NT for at least 12 months.
- Roles based in serviced offices or hot-desking arrangements are not usually accepted.
- Market salary
- Your wages must align with market salary rates. Applications may be refused if your role is underpaid compared to industry standards.
- Employment in nominated or related occupation
- You are expected to work in your nominated occupation or a closely related one.
- Exceptions may be made if you are employed in critical sectors, such as:
- health
- aged or disabled care
- education and childcare
- hospitality
- construction and the trades
- Employer support for 457/482 visa holders
- If you currently hold a subclass 457 or subclass 482 visa, you must provide a letter of support from your employer confirming:
- they support your NT nomination application, and
- they understand you will no longer be tied to their business if granted a GSM visa.
- If this letter cannot be provided, you must submit a written explanation, and the NT Government may verify your circumstances with your employer.
- If you currently hold a subclass 457 or subclass 482 visa, you must provide a letter of support from your employer confirming:
- Commitment to NT settlement
- You must demonstrate a genuine intention to live and work in the NT long term, with evidence of employment, lifestyle, and connections to the Territory.
Why these requirements matter
The NT Government is prioritising applicants who can genuinely contribute to the Territory’s workforce and community. By focusing on stable employment, fair wages, and strong local ties, the nomination program ensures skilled migrants remain in the NT and fill critical skill shortages.
Final thoughts
With the 2025-26 GSM nomination program already open under an interim allocation, now is the time to review your eligibility carefully. Ensuring that your employment, employer, and supporting documents align with NT’s nomination requirements will give you the best chance of success in securing a subclass 491 or subclass 190 nomination.
How Aurelia Legal can help
At Aurelia Legal, we guide skilled migrants through the NT nomination process with tailored advice. Whether you are applying for the subclass 491 or planning ahead for the subclass 190, our team can help you prepare a strong application and ensure compliance with NT requirements.
Contact us
📞 (03) 9125 8820
📧 info@aurelialegal.com.au
🌐 www.aurelialegal.com.au
Disclaimer: This blog provides general information only and should not be taken as legal advice. For advice specific to your circumstances, please consult a registered migration agent or immigration lawyer.