Northern Territory Occupation List 2026
Last Update: 1 June 2026
Northern Territory Skilled Occupation List
The Northern Territory (NT) offers skilled migration pathways for eligible workers through state nomination programs and employer-sponsored pathways. Occupation requirements may vary depending on the migration stream, applicant location, and current Northern Territory workforce needs.
This guide explains the Northern Territory Occupation List, including occupations available through the Skilled Occupation List, Northern Territory Designated Area Migration Agreement (NT DAMA) occupations, and offshore nomination opportunities.
Whether you are already living in Australia or applying from overseas, understanding the relevant occupation requirements is an important first step when assessing your migration options.
Which NT Occupation List Should You Use?
The Northern Territory uses different occupation lists depending on the migration pathway you are applying under. Before checking an occupation list, make sure you select the pathway that applies to your situation.
NT Offshore Migration Occupation List
Use this occupation list if you:
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are living outside Australia; and
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are applying for Northern Territory nomination under the Priority Occupation Stream.
The NT Offshore Migration Occupation List contains occupations currently accepted for offshore applicants seeking Northern Territory nomination.
NT DAMA Occupation List
This occupation list relates to the Northern Territory Designated Area Migration Agreement (NT DAMA).
The NT DAMA is an employer-sponsored visa program. Individual workers cannot apply directly under the NT DAMA and must be sponsored by an eligible Northern Territory employer.
Being on the List Does Not Guarantee Nomination
The NT Government will decide whether you are offered a nomination.
The NT Government considers a range of factors when assessing each application, including your employment prospects in the NT and whether they meet the needs of NT industries.
The NT Government grants nominations under the subclass 491 and 190 visa programs for individuals who meet the visa eligibility criteria set by the Australian Government's Department of Home Affairs and can demonstrate strong employment outcomes in the NT and a long-term commitment to the NT workforce.
Meeting these guidelines does not guarantee a nomination. Each application will be assessed on its own merits. NT nominations are issued at the discretion of the NT Government.
What You Need to Meet Before Checking the List
Before checking whether your occupation is on the relevant NT list, you must also meet the following minimum requirements.
Age: You must be under 45 years of age at the time of nomination.
Skills assessment: You must have a valid full skills assessment from a relevant Australian Government skills assessment authority for your nominated occupation.
English: You must have at least Competent English unless otherwise specified by the relevant assessing, licensing or registration body for your nominated occupation. The NT Government accepts all English tests approved by the Department of Home Affairs.
Points test: You must obtain a minimum of 65 points in the Department of Home Affairs skilled migration points test.
Commitment to the NT: You must commit to living and working in the NT in your skilled occupation or a closely related skilled occupation for at least 3 years from visa grant.
Check NT Nomination Eligibility
What Does Accepting an NT Nomination Mean?
Accepting a nomination from the NT Government means you are agreeing to the following conditions:
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live and work in the NT in your skilled occupation or a closely related skilled occupation for at least 3 years from visa grant
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let the NT Government know the status of your visa application when your visa is granted and when you arrive
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regularly provide your current contact details to the NT Government
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participate in surveys conducted by the NT Government
The NT Government does not issue release letters for transfer to other states or territories outside of the NT under any circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the NT Migration Occupation List?
The NT Migration Occupation List identifies skilled occupations that are in demand in the Northern Territory and are eligible for NT Government nomination under the General Skilled Migration program. Occupations on the list are not job vacancies. You are responsible for finding your own employment once you arrive in the NT.
Do I need to be on the NTOMOL if I am already living in the NT?
No. If you are already living in the NT as an NT resident or NT graduate, your nominated occupation must be on the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs current list of eligible skilled occupations. The NTOMOL applies only to offshore applicants applying under the NT Priority Occupation stream.
My occupation is not on the NTOMOL — can I still apply for NT nomination from overseas?
Yes, in some circumstances. Offshore applicants applying under the NT Family stream or the NT Job Offer stream can nominate any occupation on the national eligibility list. Only the NT Priority Occupation stream requires an occupation on the NTOMOL.
Does being on the NT occupation list mean there is a job waiting for me?
No. Occupations on the NT Migration Occupation List are not job vacancies. You will be responsible for finding your own employment and accommodation once you arrive and settle in the NT. The NT Government does not provide financial assistance and is not responsible for finding you employment.
Does the NT Government prioritise applicants with higher points scores?
No. The NT Government does not prioritise applicants by points score. Each application is assessed on its own merits.
Can I apply for nomination under both subclass 190 and subclass 491?
You do not need to submit separate applications. If you lodge an application for a subclass 190 nomination and are found not to be eligible, your application will be considered for a subclass 491 nomination.
What happens after my occupation is confirmed on the list?
Confirming your occupation is eligible is the first step. You must also meet NT Government nomination eligibility requirements for your stream — NT graduate, NT resident, or offshore applicant — and submit an application through the MigrationNT online portal.
Related Migration Pathways
Already living and working in the NT? Review the eligibility requirements for NT residents and NT graduates applying for a subclass 190 or subclass 491 nomination. NT Nomination Eligibility
Applying from overseas? Check whether your occupation is on the NTOMOL, or whether the NT Family stream or NT Job Offer stream applies to you. NT Offshore Migration Occupation List
Have a job offer from an NT employer? Talk to your employer about whether they can sponsor you directly under the NT Designated Area Migration Agreement. NT DAMA
Ready to apply? Review the documents you need and submit your application through the MigrationNT online portal. How to Apply for NT Nomination
Have questions? Read answers to the most common questions about the NT nomination process. Common Questions About NT Nomination
Sources
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NT Government Visa Nomination — australiasnorthernterritory.com.au
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NT Offshore Migration Occupation List — australiasnorthernterritory.com.au
Need Help With Northern Territory Skilled Migration?
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