Key Changes in Northern Territory Visa Nominations | Australia Immigration News

MigrationNT continues to process onshore nomination applications. Offshore applications will reopen on Wednesday, 14 August 2024, but only for the NT Family Stream and Job Offer Stream.

Due to a high volume of applications, the Priority Occupations Stream will remain suspended for now. Existing offshore applications under the Priority Occupations Stream will still be assessed, but significant delays are expected.

Applicants are advised to review the eligibility criteria and submit an expression of interest through the SkillSelect system before applying for nomination. It is important to note that nominations may not be guaranteed before visa expiry dates.

Individuals with expiring onshore visas should seek professional advice on visa options and ensure compliance with Australian regulations.

What is Northern Territory Government Nomination?

The Northern Territory Government can nominate individuals for a skilled visa if they:

• Meet the standard requirements of the Australian Government.
• Fulfill the NT Government’s nomination eligibility criteria.
• Commit to living and working in the Territory within their skilled occupation for at least three years upon visa grant.

Important Points to Note:

• The NT Government will determine whether a nomination is offered.
• A condition of the nomination is that the individual agrees to live, work, and settle in the NT for at least three years after the visa is granted.
• The NT Government will assess employment prospects and needs of NT industries when deciding on nominations.
• A nomination does not guarantee employment.
• Occupations on the NT Migration Occupation List are not job vacancies.
• Individuals are responsible for securing their own employment and accommodation upon arrival. The NT Government can provide information and limited assistance.

By applying for a nomination, individuals must understand that:

• The NT Government supports nominations solely within the NT and does not apply outside of it.
• The NT Government is not responsible for finding employment, accommodation, or providing financial assistance.
• The NT Government is not liable for inaccuracies or omissions in the information provided and will not issue release letters for transfer to other states or territories.

Visa Granting Authority:

The Department of Home Affairs grants visas, not the NT Government.

General Skilled Migration Visas:

The NT Government participates in the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) (subclass 491) and Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) visa schemes.

Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) (Subclass 491) Visa:

• Requires nomination from an Australian state or territory government or an eligible family member.
• This provisional five-year visa allows living, working, and studying in a regional area like the NT.
• Nominees must live, work, and study in the NT for at least three years to qualify for a permanent residency pathway.
• Reporting commitments to the Department of Home Affairs may apply, and evidence of living and working in regional Australia may need to be provided. The NT Government may conduct compliance checks.

Skilled Nominated (Subclass 190) Visa:

• Requires nomination from an Australian state or territory government.
• This is a permanent visa allowing indefinite stay in Australia.
• Nominees are expected to live and work in the NT for at least three years from visa grant.

Visa Application Steps:

1. Assess eligibility against Department of Home Affairs requirements (e.g., age, English level, skills assessment, migration points test).
2. Assess eligibility for NT nomination.
3. Submit an expression of interest through SkillSelect.
4. Apply for NT Government nomination using the online application system. Refer to the checklist of documents for guidance.
5. If nominated, receive a SkillSelect invitation to apply for a visa.
6. Submit the visa application through the Immi account on the Department of Home Affairs website.
7. Await the Department of Home Affairs' decision on the visa application.
8. If granted, fulfill long-term commitments to living and working in the NT.