Pacific Engagement Visa (Subclass 192)

The Pacific Engagement Visa (Subclass 192) is a permanent residency pathway that uses a two-stage selection process. You must first enter a random lottery, known as a ballot, and only those who are selected can move forward to submit a formal visa application.

Step 1: Ballot Registration

When the registration window opens (typically once a year for about one month), you must register your interest online.

• Where to apply: Register through the Department of Home Affairs Ballot Portal.
• Requirements: You must be between 18 and 45 years old, be a citizen of a participating country, and pay the registration fee.
• Note: You may only register once per cycle. Multiple entries will result in disqualification.

Step 2: Selection and Notification

After the ballot closes, the Australian government randomly selects participants.

• The Draw: Selection occurs over a period of 5 to 6 months.
• Notification: If you are chosen, you will receive a Notification of Selection (an invitation to apply). This letter is a critical document for your future application.

Step 3: Secure a Job Offer

Once selected, you have a limited window (usually 4 months) to find a qualifying job in Australia. This is a mandatory requirement for the visa.

• The Offer: The job must be ongoing, full-time, and pay at least the Australian minimum wage or the industry market rate.
• Support: You should immediately contact the PEV Support Service for help matching with Australian employers.

Step 4: Prepare Your Documents

While securing your job offer, gather the necessary evidence for your formal application:

• English Proficiency: Take an approved English test (like IELTS or PTE) to prove "Functional English" (an IELTS score of at least 4.5).
• Health & Character: Book a medical exam with an approved panel physician (a doctor authorized by the Australian embassy) and request police clearances from every country where you have lived for 12 months or more in the last 10 years.
• Financials: Gather bank statements showing you have enough savings (recommended AUD $5,000+) to support your family for your first year in Australia.

Step 5: Visa Lodgement

After you have your signed employment contract and all supporting documents, you must submit your formal Subclass 192 application.

• Where to apply: Submit electronically via ImmiAccount.
• Family: You can include your partner and dependent children in this single application.

Step 6: Visa Grant

If approved, your visa will be digitally linked to your passport. You will receive a grant notification via email, after which you can make arrangements to move to Australia as a permanent resident.

Item	Cost
Ballot Registration Fee	AUD $25
Visa Application (Main Applicant)	AUD $325
Additional Applicant (Partner/Child)	AUD $80 per person

Total Estimate: For a single applicant, the government fees total AUD $350. For a family of four, the government fees total approximately AUD $590.

Does not include: Costs for medical examinations (AUD $300–$600), English language testing (AUD $300–$450), police certificates, or the recommended AUD $5,000 in settlement funds for your relocation.

The entire journey from entering the lottery to arriving in Australia typically takes between 12 and 18 months.

• Ballot Selection: 5 to 6 months after the registration window closes.
• Job Search Window: You are generally given 4 months to secure an employment offer after being selected.
• Visa Processing: Once your Subclass 192 application is lodged, it currently takes between 4 and 9 months to reach a final decision.

Document Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months at the time of ballot registration. If your passport expires during the process, you must update your details immediately to ensure your selection remains linked to your identity.