Northern Territory Offshore Migration
Occupation List 2026

Northern Territory Skilled Migration Program 2026 — Overview

The Northern Territory (NT) is one of Australia's most strategically significant regions, actively seeking skilled migrants to address workforce shortages across healthcare, construction, engineering, trades, and social services. With a smaller population compared to major Australian states, the NT offers genuinely accessible pathways for qualified professionals living overseas.

The NT Government nominates skilled workers for the Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional – Provisional) visa through its offshore migration stream. This page covers the full occupation list applicable to offshore applicants applying under the Priority Occupation Stream.

What Is the NT Offshore Migration Occupation List?

The NT Offshore Migration Occupation List is a curated selection of occupations for which the Northern Territory Government is actively seeking skilled migrants from abroad. Unlike states that accept the entire national Skilled Occupation List, the NT publishes its own tailored list based on regional workforce needs.

If your occupation appears on this list, it means you may be eligible for NT nomination under the Subclass 491 visa. Appearing on the list does not guarantee nomination — the NT Government evaluates your full profile, including your skills assessment, points score, English language ability, and demonstrated connection to the NT.

Visa Pathways — Subclass 491 & 190

Offshore applicants nominating through the NT are generally considered only for Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional – Provisional) nominations. Here is a quick comparison of the two regional visa pathways:

For the most current visa requirements, always refer to the official Department of Home Affairs – Subclass 491 page.

Key Sectors in Demand — NT 2026

The NT's occupation list reflects genuine workforce shortages across several critical industries. If your profession falls within any of these sectors, your chances of receiving a nomination are significantly stronger:

Who Can Apply Under the NT Offshore Priority Stream?

To be considered for NT nomination under the offshore priority occupation stream, you generally need to meet all of the following criteria:

• Be living outside Australia at the time of applying for NT nomination
• Hold a relevant skills assessment from the appropriate Australian assessing authority
• Have an occupation on the NT Offshore Migration Occupation List (see below)
• Have submitted an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect
• Meet the minimum points threshold for the Subclass 491 visa
• Demonstrate sufficient English language proficiency (IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, or OET)

Certain regulated occupations additionally require evidence of Australian licence or registration eligibility — these are clearly marked in the occupation list below.

Licensing & Registration Requirements

A number of occupations on the NT list carry a mandatory requirement: applicants must either provide evidence of an Australian licence/registration, or a formal written statement confirming their eligibility to obtain registration to work in that occupation in Australia.

This applies to regulated professions including but not limited to:

• Medical practitioners, specialists, and nurses
• Teachers (early childhood, primary, secondary, special education)
• Electricians, plumbers, and licensed trades
• Psychologists, social workers, and allied health professionals
• Pilots and aviation professionals
• Solicitors and legal professionals

Full NT Offshore Migration Occupation List 2026

How to Apply — Step-by-Step

Step 1: Check Your Occupation

Confirm your occupation appears on the NT Offshore Migration Occupation List above. Cross-check your ANZSCO code using the ANZSCO classification tool.

Step 2: Obtain a Skills Assessment

Submit an application to the relevant assessing authority for your occupation (e.g., Engineers Australia, AHPRA, AITSL, TRA). This step is mandatory before you can submit an EOI.

Step 3: Submit Your EOI via SkillSelect

Create an account on SkillSelect, complete your Expression of Interest, and nominate the NT as your preferred state/territory. Ensure all details — especially points, English scores, and work experience — are accurate and up to date.

Step 4: Receive an NT Nomination Invitation

If the NT Government selects your EOI, you will receive an invitation to apply for NT nomination. At this stage, you will submit supporting documents including your skills assessment, English test results, employment history, and any required licence documentation.

Step 5: Apply for the Subclass 491 Visa

Once NT nomination is granted, apply to the Department of Home Affairs for the Subclass 491 visa within the specified timeframe. You must have the required points (minimum 65) plus the 15-point bonus for regional nomination.

For Pakistani Applicants — Key Considerations

Pakistani nationals applying for NT nomination under the offshore priority stream should be aware of the following:

• English Language: IELTS Academic or General Training (minimum 6.0 per band for most visa subclasses), PTE Academic, or OET are widely accepted. Always check occupation-specific requirements.
• Skills Assessment Bodies: Depending on your profession, your assessment may go through Engineers Australia, AHPRA (healthcare), AITSL (teachers), TRA (trades), VETASSESS, or AIM. We recommend starting this process early — assessments can take 3–6 months.
• Points Test: Pakistani applicants typically score well in age and qualification categories. A strong points score (75+) significantly improves your invitation chances.
• Health and Character: You must meet Australian health and character requirements. This includes a medical examination through an approved panel physician and providing police clearance certificates.

Our registered migration agents at Immigration Experts Pakistan have helped hundreds of Pakistani professionals successfully navigate the Australian skilled migration process. Book a free consultation today.

Frequently Asked Questions