Australia New PR Subclass 192 Lottery Visa 2026 – Process

Australia continues to attract skilled migrants with its high quality of life, excellent healthcare system, vibrant culture, and strong economy. The Australian government introduced a new visa — the Subclass 192 Visa, also known as the Pacific Engagement Visa (PEV). This visa offers a unique pathway to permanent residency for nationals of specific countries in the Pacific region.

The PEV aims to strengthen Australia’s relationships with Pacific island nations and address skill shortages in the Australian workforce. This guide explains everything you need to know about the Subclass 192 Visa, including eligibility criteria, application steps, benefits, challenges, and practical tips.

What is the Subclass 192 Visa (Pacific Engagement Visa)?

The Subclass 192 Visa (PEV) is a permanent residency visa introduced by the Australian government in 2026. It is available to nationals from certain Pacific island countries and Timor-Leste, allowing them to live, work, and settle in Australia indefinitely.

Through this program, Australia offers up to 3,000 places each year. The visa aims to:

• Build stronger regional ties
• Promote economic development in the Pacific
• Help fill skill gaps in Australia’s labour market

Official source: Australian Department of Home Affairs – Visas

Check Also: Global Talent Visa Program in Australia – Subclass 858

Eligibility Criteria:

To qualify for the Subclass 192 Visa, applicants must meet several requirements:

Age Requirements

• Applicants must be between 18 and 45 years old at the time of registration for the ballot.

Eligible Nationalities

Only citizens of the following countries can apply:

• Fiji
• Papua New Guinea
• Solomon Islands
• Vanuatu
• Timor-Leste
• Tonga
• Nauru
• Federated States of Micronesia
• Palau
• Tuvalu

Applicants from other countries are not eligible for the PEV.

Employment Offer

• Applicants must have a genuine, ongoing full-time job offer from an Australian employer.
• The job should match the applicant’s skills and qualifications.
• The employment helps fill critical workforce needs in Australia.

English Language Proficiency

• Applicants must demonstrate sufficient English skills to communicate effectively in a professional environment.
• While there’s no strict English test score requirement specified yet, applicants may need to prove proficiency through:
  • English language tests (e.g., IELTS, PTE Academic)
  • Academic qualifications from English-speaking institutions

Health and Character Checks

Applicants must:

• Undergo medical examinations to meet Australia’s health requirements
• Provide police clearance certificates from any country where they’ve lived for 12 months or more in the past 10 years

No Past Visa Violations

• Applicants must not have previously overstayed an Australian visa or breached immigration laws.

Family Members

• Applicants can include their immediate family members (spouse/partner and dependent children) in the visa application.
• Extended family members are not eligible for inclusion.

How to Apply for Australia New PR Subclass 192 Lottery Visa 2026?

The PEV process is unique because it involves a ballot system before you can apply for the visa.

Step 1 – Register for the Ballot

• Register online via the ImmiAccount Portal.
• Registration opens during specific periods announced by the Australian Government.
• Ballot Registration Fee: AUD $25 (non-refundable)

Important: Registration does not guarantee selection. Only a limited number of places are drawn each year.

Step 2 – Ballot Selection and Invitation

• After registration closes, the government conducts a random ballot draw.
• If selected, you’ll receive an Invitation to Apply for the Subclass 192 Visa.
• Your invitation is valid for 120 days.

Tip: Gather documents early so you can submit your application promptly if selected.

Step 3 – Submit Your Visa Application

If invited, lodge a complete visa application through ImmiAccount. Required documents typically include:

• Proof of employment offer:
  • Letter from your Australian employer detailing job title, salary, and conditions
• Identity documents:
  • Valid passport
  • Birth certificate
• Health and character checks:
  • Medical examination reports
  • Police certificates
• Proof of English proficiency:
  • Test results (if applicable)
  • Academic certificates
• Family documents:
  • Birth certificates
  • Marriage certificate (if applicable)

Once submitted, you’ll receive confirmation from the Department of Home Affairs.

Step 4 – Visa Processing and Decision

• Visa processing can take several months depending on the number of applications.
• The Department may request further information or documents during assessment.
• If approved, you’ll receive a Subclass 192 Visa granting permanent residency in Australia.

Benefits:

• Pathway to Permanent Residency
  Offers the opportunity to live in Australia permanently, with long-term security and stability.
• Work and Study Rights
  Provides full work rights and access to Australian educational institutions, often at domestic fees.
• Family Inclusion
  Allows eligible family members to be included in the visa application, enabling families to migrate together.
• Access to Medicare
  Grants eligibility for Australia’s public healthcare system (Medicare), reducing medical expenses significantly.
• Path to Citizenship
  Permanent residency can eventually lead to Australian citizenship, offering voting rights and an Australian passport.
• No Sponsorship Required
  A lottery visa may not require employer or state sponsorship, making it accessible to a wider pool of applicants.
• Travel Flexibility
  Permanent residents can travel freely in and out of Australia during the visa’s validity period.
• Quality of Life
  Provides access to Australia’s high standard of living, strong economy, and excellent public services.

Settlement Assistance:

Australia provides support services to help new permanent residents settle successfully, including:

• Job search assistance and skills recognition
• English language classes
• Community support programs
• Information sessions on living and working in Australia

More details are available at:
Settlement Services International

Challenges to Consider:

While the PEV is an excellent opportunity, consider these potential challenges:

• Competition for Jobs: Securing a job offer in Australia can be competitive, especially in specific industries.
• Visa Processing Times: Applications may take several months to process.
• Cost of Living: Australia has a relatively high cost of living, particularly in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne.

Tip: Research living costs in your preferred city before moving.

Quick Checklist for Subclass 192 Visa:

• Aged between 18-45 years
• National of eligible Pacific country or Timor-Leste
• Genuine full-time job offer in Australia
• Meet health and character requirements
• Proof of English proficiency
• Registered for the ballot and selected
• Gather supporting documents promptly

Conclusion:

The Subclass 192 Pacific Engagement Visa offers an exceptional opportunity for nationals from Pacific island countries and Timor-Leste to build a future in Australia. By following the ballot process carefully and preparing documentation in advance, you can maximise your chances of securing permanent residency in one of the world’s most desirable countries to live and work.

For official updates and full eligibility details, visit the Australian Department of Home Affairs.

Frequently Asked Questions: