Skilled Visa Deadline Alert: Major Changes in Australian States

Australia's General Skilled Migration (GSM) program remains one of the most significant pathways for skilled professionals seeking permanent residency. For the Northern Territory (NT), the GSM nomination process continues to evolve in 2024-25, with critical updates particularly affecting onshore applicants. These updates are vital for anyone planning to live and work in NT under a skilled visa.

Let’s explore the significance of these changes and what they reveal about Australia’s broader migration strategy.

Significance of the NT GSM Nomination Update

1. Streamlined Focus on Onshore Applicants

The 2024-25 program year emphasizes onshore applicants with pressing visa deadlines. MigrationNT has finalized assessments for all onshore applications submitted after the suspension of offshore processing. This move indicates a strategic preference for migrants already contributing to the NT economy and workforce.

MigrationNT is accepting new onshore applications by exception for those whose visas expire before 31 December 2025 or are on the verge of losing eligibility due to age or migration points.

Understand more about NT's GSM process on the Northern Territory Visa Guide 2024.

2. Offshore Applications Remain Suspended

All offshore GSM nomination applications are currently suspended. However, applicants who applied before this suspension will receive outcomes by 30 June 2025. This pause signifies a temporary inward focus for the NT's skilled migration, prioritizing those already in Australia to fill immediate labor gaps.

This suspension also aligns with broader trends, as states and territories fine-tune their skilled migration strategies based on regional workforce needs.

For authoritative guidance on NT migration, visit The Territory’s Migration Portal.

3. Limited Subclass 491 Nominations for Specific Cases

MigrationNT has set aside a limited number of Subclass 491 visas for exceptional onshore applicants. These include individuals:

• Whose visas expire before 31 December 2025 and are ineligible for a Temporary Graduate Visa

• Who are about to age out of the GSM program (e.g., turning 45)

• Whose total points will drop below the eligibility threshold of 65 due to age changes

  
  

This indicates a highly selective process, rewarding timely, well-prepared applications.

For full eligibility details, consult the Northern Territory Government Nomination Criteria.

4. Urgent Need for Professional Advice

Given the complexity of criteria and visa timing, professional immigration advice has never been more critical. MigrationNT cannot guarantee processing timelines before visa expiry, making it essential for applicants to maintain lawful status and consult experts promptly.

Explore expert guidance and planning services on the A2Zimmi Homepage.

5. Strategic Migration Planning for 2025-26

The 2024-25 program officially ends on 30 June 2025, and new applications for 2025-26 will open once NT receives allocation from the federal government post-1 July 2025. This buffer period gives prospective migrants time to prepare robust applications aligned with NT’s skilled needs.

Understanding these cycles allows applicants to strategically time submissions and position themselves as strong candidates for nomination.

The NT GSM updates for 2024-25 reflect Australia's strategic prioritization of skilled, onshore migrants with urgent visa timelines. With limited nominations and specific eligibility requirements, acting fast and staying informed is crucial.

Whether you're already in Australia or planning to move, start preparing now. Understanding the rules and getting expert support can significantly increase your success rate.

Schedule a consultation with A2Zimmi to receive tailored advice on your migration options.