Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) - Northern Territory

Overview

The subclass 491 visa is a points-tested provisional visa for skilled workers nominated by the Northern Territory government. It allows you to live, work, and study in the NT for five years. After holding the visa for three years and meeting regional residency and work requirements, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency.

Who qualifies

To qualify, you must be under 45 years of age, have a positive skills assessment for an occupation on the relevant skilled list, and achieve at least 65 points on the Australian points test. You must also receive a nomination from the Northern Territory government, which requires a commitment to live and work in the NT for at least three years.

Application steps

1. 1

   Step 1: Check Eligibility

   Ensure your occupation is on the relevant skilled occupation list and you meet the NT government's specific nomination criteria.

2. 2

   Step 2: Skills Assessment

   Obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority for your nominated occupation.

3. 3

   Step 3: Expression of Interest (EOI)

   Submit an EOI via SkillSelect and indicate your interest in the Northern Territory.

4. 4

   Step 4: Apply for Nomination

   Apply for Northern Territory state nomination through the official NT migration portal.

5. 5

   Step 5: Visa Application

   Once nominated, you will receive an invitation to apply for the subclass 491 visa. Lodge your application with the Department of Home Affairs.

Required documents

• Valid passport
• Positive skills assessment
• English language test results
• Evidence of points claims
• NT nomination approval
• Health and character clearances

PR, family, language & arrival

Common pitfalls

• Failing to maintain residency in the NT after visa grant
• Submitting an incomplete application causing processing delays
• Inaccurate points calculation
• Expired skills assessment at time of invitation