Social Worker — Northern Territory Nomination
Northern Territory Migration Program · Darwin
At a glance
- Program
- Northern Territory Migration Program
- Currently open
- Yes (per latest data — verify with state program)
- Capital
- Darwin
- Program notes
- Skilled occupation list with high need for regional workers. NT residency or job offer strengthens nomination prospects.
Official program page: https://theterritory.com.au/migration
Skills assessment
For Social Worker, the assessing authority for migration purposes is AASW.
Social Worker in Northern Territory — nomination overview
Social Worker (ANZSCO 272511) is listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) and is eligible for state nomination in the Northern Territory under the Northern Territory Skilled Migration program. The Northern Territory employs social workers in child protection, family support, and community services across Darwin. Skilled migrants with a valid SkillSelect Expression of Interest may be invited to apply once the NT opens nominations for this occupation; the Territory applies competitive criteria including points score, English proficiency, and willingness to work in regional or remote settings. Skills assessment is conducted by the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW), which evaluates overseas qualifications, training, and professional social work experience against Australian standards. English language proficiency, health, and character requirements must all be satisfied. Two nomination pathways are available: the Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated visa, granting permanent residence on grant, and the Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa, a provisional visa requiring three years of regional residence and employment before the holder can apply for the Subclass 191 permanent visa. Nomination adds five points for Subclass 190 or fifteen points for Subclass 491. Government fees apply at nomination and visa stages, with processing in the NT typically taking a few weeks to two months. For advice tailored to your individual circumstances, always consult a registered MARA migration agent.
Content last generated: 2026-06-26
Visa pathways for Social Worker
All visa subclasses this occupation qualifies for, including the Subclass 190 and 491 pathways that Northern Territory nominates.
- 186Details →Employer Nomination Scheme visa
Permanent employer-sponsored visa for workers nominated by an approved sponsor.
- 189Details →Skilled Independent visa
Permanent points-tested visa for workers not sponsored by an employer, family member, or state.
- 190Details →Skilled Nominated visa
Permanent visa for workers nominated by a state or territory government.
- 482Details →Skills in Demand visa
Employer-sponsored temporary visa (formerly TSS) for occupations on the relevant list.
- 485Details →Temporary Graduate visa
Post-study work visa for recent graduates of Australian qualifications.
- 491Details →Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa
Five-year provisional visa for workers willing to live and work in regional Australia.
- 494Details →Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa
Five-year employer-sponsored provisional visa in regional Australia, with a path to PR.