An additional 36 occupations are now available to overseas nationals in the Northern Territory, after a new bilateral migration agreement took effect yesterday.

The second Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA II) between the NT Government and the Federal Government identifies 117 shortage occupations where employers can recruit skilled migrants if they are unable to fill positions locally.

Unlike the first groundbreaking agreement between the two jurisdictions, DAMA II visa holders can now apply for permanent residency after working in the Territory for at least three years.

NT Chief Minister Michael Gunner said the addition of the pathway to permanent residency in DAMA II gave skilled migrants a big incentive to move to the NT and stay long-term.

Please see the full joint media release from the NT Government and Federal Government attached, along with the full list of 117 shortage occupations identified in DAMA II.