The Australian Government has introduced a new permanent residency pathway, the Subclass 192 (Pacific Engagement visa). This program aims to strengthen ties with Pacific Island nations and Timor-Leste by offering permanent residence opportunities to their citizens.
Key Features of the Pacific Engagement Visa:
- Eligibility: Open to citizens of participating Pacific Island countries and Timor-Leste who are selected through a random ballot process.
- Visa Charge: A base application charge of AUD$325 and an optional VAC additional applicant charge of AUD$80 will apply.
- Location: Applicants can be inside or outside Australia at the time of application. However, those within Australia must hold a valid substantive visa.
- Family Applications: Family members must apply together. Subsequent applications to meet secondary criteria after the primary visa holder’s grant are not permitted.
Primary Applicant Requirements:
- Must be selected in the visa pre-application ballot process.
- Be between 18 and 45 years old at the beginning of the registration period for the ballot.
- Possess a valid passport from a participating country at the time of registration.
- Have themself or a parent born in a country specified for the relevant visa pre-application process.
- Hold citizenship in a participating country (excluding New Zealand).
- Submit the application within the timeframe specified in the selection notice.
Secondary Criteria (one or more must be met):
- Primary or secondary applicant (spouse or de facto partner) has a written offer for a full-time, genuine position in Australia.
- The offered employment adheres to Australian citizen pay and working condition standards.
- The employer has no adverse information on record with Australian Immigration authorities.
- The applicant can demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support themselves and their family for the first year in Australia.
English Language Requirements:
Applicants with demonstrably strong English language skills, potentially gained through work or study in an English-speaking country or via a previously passed English language test, will be exempt from taking an additional English test.
Others can choose to participate in the free Australian Migrant English Program (AMEP) upon arrival or fulfill the specified English language testing requirements.
Pre-application Ballot Charge
Registration for the Pacific Engagement visa pre-application ballot incurs a AUD $25 fee, payable at the time of registration.
Commencement Date
The Subclass 192 Pacific Engagement visa program commences on March 29, 2024.
To discuss details and the latest information on the Pacific Engagement Visa, please get in touch with our expert team at aisupport@absoluteimmigration.com to arrange an online consultation.
