NT Skilled Migration Report (March 2025): Top Jobs & Visa Trends

The Northern Territory continues to attract skilled migrants to strengthen its distinctive regional economy, address workforce shortages, and support community growth. The following information is based on the Department of Home Affairs’ Temporary Resident (Skilled) Report, which is current to 31 March 2025 and is subject to change. This report shows consistent skilled visa grants in high-priority occupations and industries and is essential for skilled workers seeking state nomination for permanent and provisional visas.

Northern Territory Skilled Migration Overview

The Northern Territory Government plays a crucial role in managing skilled migration. As of 31 March 2025, the Northern Territory approved 810 primary skilled visa applications, an increase of 49.6% from the previous year, reflecting its targeted approach to filling critical skill gaps.

Key Industries and Employment in the NT

The Temporary Resident (Skilled) Report highlights these industries as leading drivers of skilled visa grants in the NT:

• Health Care and Social Assistance: 220 grants (+133%)
• Construction: 140 grants (+130.5%)
• Accommodation and Food Services: 100 grants (+63.3%)
• Other Services: 80 grants (-5.9%)
• Education and Training: 50 grants (+51.5%)
• Professional, Scientific and Technical Services: 50 grants (-4.1%)

These figures show strong demand for healthcare professionals, construction trades, and hospitality workers. Australian Migration Lawyers understands these sector-specific demands and can guide both onshore and offshore applicants through the visa process.

High-Demand Occupations in the NT

The report also identifies the top nominated occupations for the 2024–2025 program year:

• Registered Nurse (Medical): 50 grants (+327.3%)
• Resident Medical Officer: 50 grants (+155.6%)
• Child Care Worker: 40 grants (+29%)
• Motor Mechanic (General): 40 grants (+150%)
• Aged or Disabled Carer: 30 grants (+163.6%)
• Welder (First Class): 20 grants (+20%)
• Cook: 20 grants (+25%)
• Chef: 20 grants (+216.7%)

These trends reinforce the NT’s reliance on skilled professionals in health care, trades, and community services.

Top Source Countries for Skilled Migrants

The Northern Territory attracts skilled migrants from across the globe, with the highest numbers from:

• Philippines: 190 grants (+11.7%)
• India: 110 grants (+181.6%)
• United Kingdom: 60 grants (-1.7%)
• Nepal: 40 grants (+28.6%)
• Indonesia: 30 grants (+123.1%)
• Sri Lanka: 30 grants (+16%)
• South Africa: 30 grants (steady)
• Vietnam: 30 grants (+350%)

This diverse intake highlights the NT’s global appeal. Meeting English language requirements is a crucial part of the application process, and our team can provide guidance in this area.

Key Skilled Visa Pathways in Northern Territory

For prospective visa applicants, aligning your occupation, skills, and personal goals with the right visa stream can significantly improve your chances of securing a nomination and achieving permanent residency.

Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa

This is a permanent residency pathway for skilled workers who receive a nomination from the Northern Territory government. To be eligible, visa applicants must have a nominated occupation featured on Northern Territory’s current nomination list and satisfy all other eligibility criteria, including a valid skills assessment and meeting competent English language requirements.

Australian Migration Lawyers can help assess your eligibility for this visa subclass 190 and guide you through the visa nomination process, including the Australian Government's points test. This pathway is particularly appealing for those who wish to live in Darwin or other major regions in the Northern Territory.

Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa

This is a five-year provisional visa designed for skilled workers who are prepared to live and work in designated regional areas of Northern Territory. This pathway offers a clear route to permanent residency after fulfilling specific regional work and residence requirements. It provides an excellent opportunity for offshore applicants and those seeking opportunities outside of major metropolitan centres.

The 491 visa also offers a pathway to permanent residency, which can be an attractive option for many skilled migrants. Australian Migration Lawyers can provide further information on securing a Northern Territory visa nomination under this provisional visa stream.

Understanding the Points Test and Skills Assessment

The Australian government's points test is a crucial part of the skilled visa application process. Your total score depends on factors like your age, English language ability, work experience, and educational qualifications. You might be able to claim additional points for a state or territory nomination or if your partner has certain skills.

A valid skills assessment is a core requirement for subclasses 190 and 491, as it proves that your skills and qualifications meet Australian standards for your nominated occupation. This assessment is conducted by a relevant assessing authority, which is approved by the Department of Home Affairs.

Our team at Australian Migration Lawyers can help you navigate this complex process and assist with all aspects of your skilled visa nomination application.

Employer Sponsored Visa Pathways

It is important to note that the data in this report also highlights the significance of employer sponsorship. In fact, the Temporary Resident (Skilled) Report shows that Employer Sponsored visas are the most common pathway for skilled workers transitioning from temporary visas. If you have a job offer in the state, Australian Migration Lawyers can provide expert assistance with these applications in addition to state nomination pathways.

Navigating Your Application to the Northern Territory

With strong demand across healthcare, trades, and hospitality, the Northern Territory offers excellent opportunities for skilled migration. Two primary state-nominated pathways are available:

• Permanent Visas: This is a permanent residency pathway for skilled workers nominated by the NT Government who show a genuine commitment to living and working in the Territory.
• Provisional Visas: This is a pathway for skilled workers prepared to live and work in the NT, offering a clear route to permanent residency after meeting specific residence and work requirements.

A successful application requires careful preparation and a thorough understanding of all eligibility criteria. Preparing a decision-ready application is essential to avoid delays and maximise your prospects. Australian Migration Lawyers can guide you through every step, from assessing your eligibility and preparing a competitive Expression of Interest (EOI) to ensuring your final submission is accurate, complete, and aligned with the requirements of the Department of Home Affairs.

Contact Australian Migration Lawyers today for tailored support for your Northern Territory visa nomination and take the next crucial step towards securing a permanent visa and building your future in Australia. Whether you are applying from within Australia or overseas, our team can provide comprehensive advice on eligible occupations, points criteria, and nomination processes. We are well-versed in the intricacies of state and territory nominations and can offer clarity on various visa subclasses and other requirements.