The Pacific Engagement Visa will strengthen our connections in the region and develop a vibrant Pacific and Timor-Leste diaspora in Australia.

The Australian Government has heard the calls from Pacific leaders for deeper connections and easier movement around the region. We are taking steps to improve access, mobility and migration opportunities. Boosting Pacific permanent migration to Australia is an essential part of our plan to build a stronger Pacific Family.

To support this, the Government has committed to a new permanent resident visa program and will introduce the Pacific Engagement visa (PEV) for nationals of participating Pacific Island countries and Timor-Leste. The PEV will grow Australia’s Pacific diaspora. It will enable stronger people-to-people links and greater cultural, business and educational exchange.

We will introduce the new Subclass 192 – Pacific Engagement visa in 2024. It will provide up to 3,000 permanent places annually for citizens of participating Pacific Island countries and Timor-Leste and their immediate family members. This is in addition to Australia’s permanent migration program.

On 19 October 2023, the Australian Government passed immigration legislation to enable the use of a ballot for the new PEV.  

The ballot ensures that eligible Pacific Island and Timor-Leste nationals of all skill levels, gender and backgrounds have equal opportunity to apply for a permanent visa for Australia.

Learn more about the eligibility requirements for this new visa on the PEV (subclass 192) ​​page.

For more information about participating countries and offshore support services visit the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) website.​