Oct12025

Introduction

Australia’s Pacific Engagement visa (subclass 192) is one of the most significant migration initiatives for citizens of participating Pacific Island countries and Timor-Leste. It offers permanent residency via an annual ballot. Below, we break down who qualifies, how selection works, what to prepare, and the latest 2025 timing.

Quick definition: The PEV is a permanent residence visa for eligible Pacific and Timor-Leste nationals delivered via a random ballot, with up to 3,000 places per year (inclusive of partners and dependent children) in the Pacific Engagement stream. A separate Treaty stream provides places for Tuvaluan citizens.

Key facts at a glance

Feature What it means
Annual places Up to 3,000 PR visas each year (Pacific Engagement stream) — places include partners/dependents. pev.gov.au
Visa type Subclass 192 (PEV) — two streams from 1 May 2025: Pacific Engagement stream; Treaty stream (Tuvalu). Immigration and citizenship Website
Selection Random ballot per eligible country. Invitation is required before you can lodge a visa application. Immigration and citizenship Website
Ballot fee AUD 25 to enter the ballot. (Source)

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify, applicants must:

  • Be a citizen of a participating Pacific Island country or Timor-Leste

  • Be aged 18–45 at the time of application

  • Enter and be selected through the PEV ballot draw system

  • Secure a valid job offer in Australia

  • Meet basic English, health, and character requirements


The countries participating in the Pacific Engagement Visa program in 2025 are:

The Ballot System Explained

The PEV uses a random ballot system to ensure fairness.

  1. Eligible candidates register for the ballot.

  2. Names are randomly drawn once the ballot closes.

  3. Selected individuals receive an invitation to apply for the full visa.

If you were not selected in the 2024-2025 program year, and continue to meet the eligibility requirements, then you may submit a new registration in the 2025-2026 ballot.

You can include your partner and legally dependent children in your ballot registration.

Application Process: Step by Step

Here’s how the application works:

  1. Register for the Ballot – Submit your Expression of Interest (EOI) through the online portal.

  2. Ballot Draw Results – If your name is drawn, you’ll be invited to proceed.

  3. Submit Full Application – Provide documents such as employment evidence, passport, police checks, and health clearance.

  4. Await Decision – Processing usually takes 3–6 months after submission.

Document Checklist

Make sure you have these documents ready:

Document Requirement
Passport Valid and current
ID or Birth Certificate Official proof of identity
Employment Contract Signed and legally binding job offer
Police Clearance & Health Checks Completed as per DHA standards
Application Form Fully completed and accurate

What Happens After You’re Selected in the Ballot?

Make sure you have these documents ready:

  • You’ll receive an invitation to apply for the Pacific Engagement Visa.

  • Submit a complete visa application with job offer, passport, police & health clearances, and ID documents.

  • Remember: selection doesn’t guarantee approval only a correct, timely application does.

  • This is where SOL Edu & Migration can help: we guide you step by step to lodge a strong application and maximise your chances of success. CONTACT US HERE