The Pacific Engagement Visa – Subclass 192

The government has committed to the establishment of a new permanent resident visa initiative, introducing the Pacific Engagement Visa (PEV) specifically for nationals from participating Pacific Island countries and Timor-Leste. This program will allocate up to 3,000 permanent positions annually for citizens of these participating nations and their immediate family members, supplementing Australia's existing permanent migration program.

On October 19, 2023, the Australian Government enacted immigration legislation to facilitate the use of a ballot system for the PEV. This approach ensures that eligible individuals from Pacific Island countries and Timor-Leste, regardless of skill level, gender, or background, have an equitable opportunity to apply for a permanent visa to Australia.

It's important to note that the Pacific Engagement Visa is intended to complement the PALM scheme by providing a permanent resident visa to citizens of Pacific island countries and Timor-Leste. Unlike the PALM scheme, the Pacific Engagement Visa is not a labour mobility program; rather, it is crafted to foster a diaspora in Australia while maintaining ongoing connections with their home countries.

In contrast, the PALM scheme operates as a temporary migration program, addressing workforce shortages in rural and regional Australia, supporting the economic development of Pacific countries, and facilitating skills development for workers upon their return home. Workers under valid temporary visas through the PALM scheme in Australia will be eligible to participate in the Pacific Engagement Visa ballot when applications become open.

We will provide guidance once additional information becomes available regarding the Pacific Engagement Visa.

For further information, please contact one of our highly experienced Registered Migration Agents.

Disclaimer: The information provided herein is of a general nature only and does not constitute immigration advice. For more detailed and case-specific information or advice, please get in touch with SCA Connect.