On July 28, 2025, the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has announced that registrations for the Pacific Engagement stream visa (PEV) ballot are now open for Pacific Island and Timor-Leste nationals.
The PEV is a permanent visa allowing people from participating countries to live, work and study in Australia. PEV holders can travel between Australia and their home countries, strengthening links between our people while fostering business and education ties.
Prospective applicants must first register in the random pre-application ballot, through ImmiAccount. This is open from July 28 to August 25, 2025. There is a ballot registration fee of AUD 25.
Eligible nationals from participating countries can enter the ballot. People of all skill levels, genders and occupational backgrounds are welcome.
Those selected at random will be invited to apply for the PEV. There are 3000 places available for the 2025-26 program to eligible citizens of the following countries:
- Federated States of Micronesia
- Fiji
- Kiribati
- Nauru
- Palau
- Papua New Guinea
- Samoa
- Solomon Islands
- Timor-Leste
- Tonga
- Vanuatu
Australia has granted more than 1,000 PEVs. PEV holders can access the same benefits as all permanent visa holders to help raise a family. This includes access to public schools, Medicare and subsidized childcare.
Erickson Insights and Analysis
Erickson Immigration Group will continue to monitor developments and share updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or case-specific questions.