Australia Announces Eligible Countries for Pacific Visa

The Australian government has published a list of twelve countries whose citizens are eligible for the Pacific Engagement Visa, a permanent residence pathway aimed at strengthening relationships across the Pacific region. The eligible countries include: Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Kiribati, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Republic of the Marshall Islands, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Timor-Leste, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu.

This visa is designed to provide a long-term residency option, distinguishing it from temporary work or travel permits. Successful applicants will have the right to reside in Australia indefinitely.

The inclusion of Timor-Leste alongside the Pacific island nations reflects Australia's diplomatic interest in the broader Indo-Pacific corridor, extending beyond the traditional Pacific Islands Forum grouping. Citizens from countries not listed will not qualify for this visa and must seek other immigration pathways to Australia.