In a historic move to strengthen ties with the Pacific region, Australia has officially rolled out the Pacific Engagement Visa (PEV), offering up to 3,000 Pacific Islanders and Timor-Leste nationals a direct pathway to permanent residency in 2025!
The visa, which is set to reshape migration opportunities for Pacific nations, operates on a unique ballot system, ensuring a fair and transparent selection process. Eligible applicants will enter a draw for the chance to apply, paving the way for long-term residence, employment, and access to key government services in Australia.
Who Can Apply Australian PEV 2025?
To be in the running for this life-changing opportunity, applicants must:
- Be between 18 and 45 years old
- Hold a valid passport from an eligible Pacific country or Timor-Leste
- Have been born in, or have a parent born in, a participating country
- Pay a nominal ballot registration fee of AUD 25.
But here’s the real kicker: Winning the ballot is just the beginning! Selected applicants (or their spouses) must secure a formal job offer in Australia and meet basic English requirements to proceed with their visa applications.
PEV Visa Allocations for 2025 Revealed!
The Australian government has unveiled the breakdown of Pacific Engagement Visa slots for 2025, with Papua New Guinea leading the pack with 1,515 places, followed by Fiji (300), Timor-Leste (300), and Tonga (300). Here’s how the visa slots stack up across the region:
| Country | Places |
|---|---|
| Federated States of Micronesia | 24 |
| Fiji | 300 |
| Nauru | 150 |
| Palau | 11 |
| Papua New Guinea | 1,515 |
| Solomon Islands | 150 |
| Timor-Leste | 300 |
| Tonga | 300 |
| Tuvalu | 100 |
| Vanuatu | 150 |
These numbers mean thousands of Pacific Islanders will now have a shot at building a future in Australia!
How to Get In?
- Step 1: Register for the ballot via Australia’s ImmiAccount during the designated period.
- Step 2: Wait for the electronic random draw to see if you’re selected.
- Step 3: If chosen, secure a job offer in Australia (Event taking place on March 13, 2025 https://www.pev.gov.au/participating-countries/federated-states-of-micronesia/employment-support-service-job-preparation) and complete the visa process.
- Step 4: Pass health and character checks, then start your new life in Australia!
Once approved, PEV holders get access to Medicare, free settlement support, education benefits, and pathways to Australian citizenship!