The Australian Government’s will be commencing Pacific Engagement visa (PEV pre-application ballot) for Vanuatu nationals will commence on 3 June 2024.
Vanuatuans are eligible to apply for Australia permanent residency (subclass 192 pacific engagagement visa) lottery scheme. Annually 3000 visas are allotted to pacific countries. This scheme is commencing on 03 June 2024. Up to 3000 visa places, inclusive of partners and dependent children, will be allocated annually through a ballot process.
Eligibility
- be randomly selected through the PEV ballot
- be aged between 18 and 45 years
- hold a valid visa if applying from inside Australia, which includes a substantive temporary visa, Bridging Visa A, B or C
- have a formal job offer in Australia and
- meet other visa requirements, including English language, character and health checks.
Once you are selected, eligible PEV holders will have immediate access to:
- Family Tax Benefit A
- Austudy
- Youth Allowance (student and apprentice)
- Higher Education Loan Program (HELP) and
- VET Student Loans (VSL) programs.
Countries currently participating in the Pacific Engagement Visa include the Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Nauru, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Timor-Leste, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu.
Visa allocations are based on several factors including population size, diaspora in Australia, existing migration opportunities, expected demand and participating country views.
Visa allocations for 2024:
| Country | Allocations |
|---|---|
| Federated States of Micronesia | 50 |
| Fiji | 300 |
| Nauru | 100 |
| Palau | 50 |
| Papua New Guinea | 1350 |
| Solomon Islands | 150 |
| Timor-Leste | 300 |
| Tonga | 150 |
| Tuvalu | 100 |
| Vanuatu | 150 |
After 5 years, you can file for Australian citizenship with the PR status by meeting general conditions of residency, genuine link and good character.