BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
The Australian Government will open applications for its Pacific Engagement Visa (PEV) ballot from July 1 to July 29, offering Solomon Islanders a pathway to permanent residency in Australia.
The announcement follows a joint statement by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Solomon Islands Prime Minister Matthew Wale, a statement from the Australian High Commission (AHC) said.
The AHC said the joint statement was made during the Australia-Solomon Islands Leaders’ Meeting on June 3, confirming that the number of Pacific Engagement Visas available to Solomon Islanders will double from 150 to 300 from 2027.
The Pacific Engagement Visa provides successful applicants and their families the opportunity to live permanently in Australia while maintaining strong ties with Solomon Islands.
Visa holders can travel freely between Australia and their home country and gain access to Australia’s healthcare system, education services, English language programs, and support for further study and training.
As in previous ballot rounds held in 2024 and 2025, successful applicants will be able to include their partners and dependent children in their visa application, the statement said.
The Australian Government continues to provide a free Pacific Engagement Visa Support Service to assist applicants throughout the ballot and visa process.
According to AHC, the service also helps connect successful applicants with Australian employers and provides information on settling and living in Australia.
To support Solomon Islanders, a dedicated local PEV Support Service team will conduct a range of free information sessions, including ballot information sessions, pre-departure briefings for individuals and couples, and online employment support check-ins.
Interested individuals can obtain further information or register for a session by contacting the local support service via email at [[email protected]] (mailto: [email protected]).
The Pacific Engagement Visa is part of Australia’s broader mobility partnership with Pacific nations.
It aims to strengthen people-to-people links between Australia and Solomon Islands while delivering educational, skills, and economic benefits to both countries.
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