Australia’s Pacific Engagement Visa (Subclass 192), sometimes called the PEV, is a permanent residency pathway designed for citizens of participating Pacific Island countries and Timor-Leste. It uses a ballot (lottery) selection system, ensuring an equal chance for eligible candidates to apply while addressing Australia’s labor needs.
This guide provides complete 2025 information about eligibility, step-by-step application, required documents, benefits, costs, common challenges, tips, and FAQs.
What is Subclass 192 (Pacific Engagement Visa)?
The Subclass 192 visa is a permanent residency visa that allows eligible Pacific Island and Timor-Leste nationals to live, work, and settle in Australia indefinitely.
Key points:
- Up to 3,000 places per year (including family members) are granted.
- Registration occurs via a ballot system, with a AU$25 non-refundable fee.
- Selected applicants must secure a full-time job in Australia before the visa is granted.
- Visa holders enjoy permanent residency rights, including access to healthcare and a pathway to Australian citizenship.
The PEV strengthens people-to-people links between Australia and the Pacific while filling critical labor shortages in regional and urban areas.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Subclass 192 (PEV), applicants must meet the following core requirements:
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | 18–45 at the time of registration |
| Ballot registration | Register during the open ballot window; pay AU$25 fee |
| Job offer | Full-time, ongoing Australian job offer (or partner must secure it) |
| Health & character | Pass medical examinations and provide police clearance certificates |
| English proficiency | Demonstrate basic English through approved tests (IELTS or equivalent) |
| Nationality | Citizen of eligible Pacific Island countries or Timor-Leste |
Note: Registration in the ballot does not guarantee an invitation. Selection is random, giving all eligible candidates an equal chance.
Eligible Countries (Examples): Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Timor-Leste, Tonga, Nauru, Federated States of Micronesia, Palau, Tuvalu.
Benefits of Subclass 192 Visa
- Permanent residency: Live and work in Australia indefinitely.
- Healthcare: Access Medicare once eligible.
- Family inclusion: Partner and dependent children can be included.
- Pathway to citizenship: Apply for Australian citizenship after fulfilling residency requirements.
- Work rights: Full-time or part-time employment without restrictions.
- Education access: Study in Australia indefinitely.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Prepare & Register for the Ballot
- Create an ImmiAccount on the Australian Department of Home Affairs website.
- Register for the PEV during the official window and pay AU$25.
- Save registration receipt or screenshot for records.
Checklist Before Registration:
- Valid passport
- National ID / birth certificate (and parent’s birth if required)
- Contact email
- Any evidence requested by the registration portal
Step 2: Wait for Ballot Selection
- Selections are random and electronic.
- If selected, you will receive an official invitation to apply via ImmiAccount.
- Invitation validity: Usually 120 days, within which you must lodge your full visa application.
Step 3: Secure a Job Offer
- After selection, secure a formal, ongoing full-time job offer in Australia (or your partner must).
- Employer letter should include:
- Job title & duties
- Full-time ongoing nature
- Salary & start date
Job must align with your skills and the visa conditions.
Step 4: Assemble Documentation & Lodge Application
Upload the following documents via ImmiAccount before the invitation expiry:
- Passport & identity documents
- Formal Australian job offer letter (signed)
- Police clearance certificates from all countries of residence
- Medical examination reports (from an approved panel physician)
- English proficiency evidence (IELTS or other approved test)
- Birth/marriage certificates & dependent documents (if applicable)
- CV & employment references (recommended)
After submission, you will receive an acknowledgement and can track the application progress online.
Step 5: Processing & Additional Requests
- Processing times vary depending on application completeness and health/character checks.
- Department may request additional documents; respond promptly to avoid delays.
- Typical experiences: Some applicants receive decisions within a few months, others may take longer.
Step 6: Visa Granted – Arrival & Settlement
Once granted:
- You and family members gain permanent residency.
- Eligible for Medicare and other government services.
- Access settlement support services: Jobs, housing, and community integration.
- You can apply for Australian citizenship after fulfilling residency requirements.
Required Documents Checklist
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Passport | Must be valid for at least 6 months |
| National ID / Birth certificate | Include parent’s birth if required |
| Ballot registration receipt | AU$25 non-refundable |
| Job offer letter | Formal and signed |
| Police certificates | From each country of residence |
| Medical check results | Approved panel physician |
| English proficiency | IELTS or alternative approved test |
| Marriage & children certificates | If including family |
| CV & employment references | Recommended |
Costs Involved
| Expense | Amount (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Ballot registration fee | 25 (non-refundable) |
| Visa application fee | TBA on official website |
| Medical exams | 300–600 per person (approx.) |
| Police clearance | 50–150 per certificate |
| English test (if needed) | 250–350 |
| Living expenses in Australia | 1,500–2,500/month initially |
Costs vary depending on location, number of dependents, and personal choices.
Common Challenges & Tips
- Job market competitiveness: Use Australian job portals and recruitment agencies experienced with PEV applicants.
- Respond quickly: Delays often occur from slow submission of requested evidence.
- Financial planning: Australia’s cost of living can be high; budget for initial settlement.
- Keep records: Save copies of registration receipts, invitations, and correspondence.
- English preparation: Strong English skills help with both job and settlement success.
FAQs
1. How much is the ballot registration fee?
AU$25 (non-refundable).
2. Which countries are eligible?
Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Timor-Leste, Tonga, Nauru, Federated States of Micronesia, Palau, Tuvalu. Confirm on official PEV pages.
3. Do I need a job before I register?
No, registration is first. Job offer must be secured after selection.
4. How long are invitations valid?
Commonly 120 days, but check your invitation letter for exact deadline.
5. Can I include my family?
Yes, partner and dependent children can be included in the application.
6. Is English mandatory?
Basic English is required; IELTS or alternative evidence may be needed.
7. Can I work anywhere in Australia?
Yes, once PR is granted, work and live anywhere in Australia.
Conclusion
The Australia Subclass 192 (PEV) 2025 is an excellent permanent residency pathway for Pacific Island and Timor-Leste nationals seeking to live, work, and settle in Australia.
With a simple registration, lottery selection, job offer, and permanent residency, it provides a life-changing opportunity. Preparation, timely submissions, and understanding the rules are essential to increase your chance of success.
