In a significant move to deepen connections between Australia and its Pacific neighbours, the Australian Government has launched the Pacific Engagement Visa (PEV), a new permanent residency pathway for citizens of participating Pacific countries and Timor-Leste.
Key Features of the Pacific Engagement Visa:
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Annual Allocation: Up to 3,000 visas, inclusive of partners and dependent children, will be available each year through a random ballot process.
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Eligibility Criteria:
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Aged between 18 and 45 years.
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Hold a valid passport from a participating country.
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Be born in, or have a parent born in, an eligible country.
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Pay a $25 registration fee to enter the ballot.
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Employment Requirement: Applicants must secure a formal, ongoing job offer in Australia before the visa is granted. The PEV Employment Support Service assists successful applicants in connecting with employers and preparing for life in Australia.
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Family Inclusion: Successful applicants can include their partner and legally dependent children in their visa application.
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Access to Services: As permanent residents, visa holders will have access to Australia’s universal healthcare system, public schools, and other government services.
Participating Countries:
The program is open to citizens of the following countries:
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Federated States of Micronesia
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Fiji
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Nauru
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Palau
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Papua New Guinea
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Solomon Islands
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Timor-Leste
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Tonga
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Tuvalu
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Vanuatu
Application Process:
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Register for the Ballot: Eligible individuals must register online through the Department of Home Affairs’ ImmiAccount during the designated registration periods.
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Ballot Selection: Registrations are randomly selected, and those chosen will be invited to apply for the visa.
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Visa Application: Selected applicants must demonstrate they meet all visa criteria, including securing employment and meeting health, character, and English language requirements.
For more information and to register, visit the official Pacific Engagement Visa Support Service website.
