The Northern Territory (NT) has launched its 2024-25 skilled migration program, aimed at attracting skilled migrants to live and work in the region. The program includes provisions for both onshore and offshore applicants, offering pathways to permanent residency through various visa schemes.
Key Features of the 2024-25 Program
Visa Types and Allocations
The NT Government participates in two key visa schemes:
- Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) (subclass 491) visa: A provisional five-year visa requiring nomination from a state or territory government. Applicants must commit to living, working, and studying in the NT for at least three years to qualify for permanent residency.
- Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) visa: A permanent visa allowing indefinite stay. Nominees are expected to live and work in the NT for at least three years from the grant of the visa.
Eligible Occupations
The NT’s skilled occupation lists cover a range of industries critical to the region’s development. These include:
High-Demand Sectors:
- Health: Doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals.
- Science and Engineering: Engineers, scientists, and technicians.
- Finance: Accountants and financial managers.
- Agriculture: Farmers and agricultural scientists.
- Construction: Project managers and skilled tradespeople.
- Telecommunications and IT: ICT professionals and programmers.
- Hospitality: Chefs and hospitality managers.
Application Requirements
To be eligible for NT nomination, applicants must meet specific criteria, which vary for onshore and offshore applicants:
General Requirements
- Skills Assessment: A positive skills assessment for the nominated occupation.
- English Language Proficiency: At least ‘Competent’ English (IELTS score of 6 across all bands or equivalent).
- Migration Points Test: A minimum of 65 points.
Onshore Applicants
- Residency: Must have lived in the NT for at least 12 consecutive months.
- Employment: Full-time employment in the NT for at least six months in the nominated occupation.
- Commitment: Must commit to living and working in the NT for at least three years post-visa grant.
Offshore Applicants
- Occupation and Experience: Must have experience in high-priority occupations, family connections in the NT, or job offers from NT employers.
- Commitment: Similar commitment to live and work in the NT for three years.
Application Process
- Expression of Interest (EOI): Submit an EOI through SkillSelect.
- NT Nomination Application: Apply online for NT Government nomination.
- Invitation to Apply: If successful, receive an invitation to apply for the visa.
- Visa Application: Lodge the visa application with the Department of Home Affairs via ImmiAccount.