The Australian Government has launched a new permanent resident visa program called the Pacific Engagement Visa (Subclass 192). This program aims to strengthen ties between Australia and the Pacific region.
Key Points
Visa Introduction
The Subclass 192 visa is now available as part of Australia’s permanent migration program.
Annual Quota
Three thousand places will be offered each year to citizens of Pacific Island countries and Timor-Leste, including their partners and children.
Goal
The visa aims to build stronger cultural, business, and educational links between Australia and the Pacific.
Application Process
Ballot System
Starting 19 October 2023, a lottery system will be used to select applicants for the Subclass 192 visa.
Fairness
The lottery ensures everyone has an equal chance, regardless of their job or skills.
Annual Lottery
Each year, selected participants can apply for permanent residency.
Pre-Application:
Online Registration: Begins in July 2024.
Fee
It will cost $25 to enter the lottery.
Eligibility for the Pacific Engagement Visa (Subclass 192)
- Applicants must be between 18 and 45 years old at the time of application.
- Applicants must either hold a formal job offer in Australia or have a partner/spouse with a job offer.
- Applicants must satisfy the English language proficiency requirements established by the Department of Home Affairs.
- Applicants must pass character checks and demonstrate good character per Australian immigration standards.
- Applicants must meet health requirements, including undergoing health checks to meet Australian health standards.
- Settlement Engagement and Transition Support Program.
- Adult Migrant English Program.
- Medicare.
- Government-funded schools and higher education.
Ballot Period
Dates: The ballot will be open from 3 June to 1 August 2024.
Inclusion of Family: Applicants can include their partner and legally dependent children in their application.
Eligibility:
Age: Primary applicants must be between 18 and 45 years old.
Citizenship: Must be a citizen of Fiji, FSM, Nauru, Palau, PNG, Solomon Islands, Timor-Leste, Tonga, Tuvalu, or Vanuatu.
Birthplace Requirement: Must have been born in, or have a parent born in, one of the participating countries, Australia, Kiribati, NZ, RMI, or Samoa.
Passport Requirement: Only the primary applicant needs a passport; other family members do not.
Fee: The application fee is A$25, regardless of the number of family members included, payable online. Post-Ballot Process
Job Offer: Secure a job offer in Australia, with assistance available from the Government’s free PEV Support Service.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the eligibility criteria for participation in the PEV?
To participate in the Pacific Engagement Visa (PEV), applicants must:
- Be selected through a ballot process.
- Be between 18 and 45 years old.
- Have a formal job offer in Australia.
- Meet English language, character, and health requirements.
What support services will be available to PEV participants in Australia?
PEV participants will receive support to help them settle and integrate into the community. They will have early access to benefits that help with family and education costs. As permanent residents, eligible PEV participants can access:
- Schools and training programs
- Medicare
- Family Tax Benefit B
- Settlement Engagement and Transition Support program
- Adult Migrant English Program
Will successful applicants have a choice of where to live in Australia?
As this is a permanent visa, applicants can choose where to live, work, and study in Australia.
How does the ballot process work for the PEV?
Ballot Dates: The ballot will be open from 3 June to 1 August 2024.
Application: Applicants must register online through the Australian Department of Home Affairs’ ImmiAccount and pay a fee of A$25.
Selection: The ballot randomly selects participants who can apply for the visa.
Can family members be included in the PEV application?
Applicants can include their partners and legally dependent children in their application.
What documents are needed for the PEV application?
Primary Applicant: Must have a passport.
Family Members: Do not need a passport initially but will need one if selected.
What are the steps after being selected on the ballot?
- Applicants have 120 days to complete the following:
- Secure a job offer in Australia.
- Undergo a health check.
- Complete a police check.
- Take an English language test (exemptions may apply).
- Ensure all family members have passports.
- Demonstrate the ability to support themselves for the first 12 months in Australia.
What kind of support will PEV participants receive upon arrival in Australia?
Participants will receive help finding jobs and connecting with employers through a regional resource.
They will also get guidance on the visa application process, cultural support, and information about life in Australia.
Will PEV participants have access to healthcare and education in Australia?
Eligible participants will have access to Medicare and government-funded schools and training programs.
Are there any financial requirements for PEV participants?
Participants must show they can support themselves for the first 12 months in Australia. Details on whether this requires more than a job offer will be provided later.