NT DAMA
482 Visa
The Northern Territory Designated Area Migration Agreement (NT DAMA) is an employer-sponsored visa program under the Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482), giving skilled workers access to a broader range of occupations specific to the NT region.
Visa Type
Subclass 482
Stream
Labour Stream
Duration
Up to 4 Years
PR Pathway
ENS 186
What is the NT DAMA?
The NT DAMA is a formal agreement between the Australian Government and the Northern Territory Government that allows NT employers to sponsor overseas workers for a wider range of occupations and with more flexible criteria than standard visa programs.
It addresses the unique workforce needs of the Northern Territory — one of Australia's most resource-rich and rapidly growing regions — where local labour supply is insufficient to meet employer demands.
Worker Requirements
Employer Conditions
Key Advantages
Wider Occupation List
Access 117+ occupations not available under the standard 482 visa, covering hospitality, trades, and agriculture roles.
Relaxed English
Lower English language requirements (IELTS 4.5) compared to the standard 482 visa (IELTS 5.0).
Age Flexibility
Applicants up to 55 years old may be eligible, compared to the standard 45-year age limit.
Family Included
Bring your partner and dependent children with full work and study rights in Australia from day one.
PR Pathway
After working in the NT for 3 years, transition to Permanent Residency via ENS (Subclass 186).
Regional Growth
Work in one of Australia's fastest-growing regions with strong employment demand across multiple industries.
Step-by-Step Guide
Employer Accreditation
Your employer must apply to become an approved NT DAMA sponsor through the Northern Territory Government.
Labour Market Testing
Employer demonstrates the position cannot be filled by an Australian worker (exemptions available for some roles).
Sponsorship Approval
The employer lodges a sponsorship application with the Department of Home Affairs.
Nomination Lodgement
Employer nominates the specific occupation and your details via the ImmiAccount portal.
Visa Application
You lodge your Subclass 482 visa application with all supporting documents including health and character checks.
Grant & Travel
Once approved, you and your family can move to the Northern Territory and begin work.
Industries Covered
Hospitality
Chefs, Cooks, Managers
Retail & Services
Store Managers, Supervisors
Construction
Labourers, Supervisors
Agriculture
Farm Workers, Supervisors
Healthcare
Nurses, Allied Health
Transport
Truck Drivers, Operators
Trades
Electricians, Plumbers
Tourism
Tour Operators, Guides
Common
Questions
Everything about the NT DAMA 482 visa.
Ready to Move to the
Northern Territory?
Let Migrate Zone handle your NT DAMA 482 application end to end. Our experts have helped hundreds of skilled workers build new lives in Australia.
