Let’s be real — relocating to a country like Australia sounds like a dream when you’re staring at your bank account thinking, “How on earth will I afford this?” But guess what? There’s a real shot at permanent residency — and it’s not just for the rich or super connected.
This year, 2025, Australia introduced the Subclass 192 Visa, also known as the Pacific Engagement Visa (PEV). It’s a game-changer for people from specific countries, including parts of the Pacific, and could be a backdoor entry into permanent residency in Australia — even if you’re coming from a low-income background.
If you’re from Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, India, Pakistan, the Philippines, or other nations where opportunities to relocate are rare or expensive, this guide is for you. We’re breaking everything down: how the visa works, who qualifies, the ballot system (aka the lottery), and how to increase your chances.
Let’s get into it — because someone’s going to make it through this path. Why not you?
What is the Subclass 192 Visa?
The Subclass 192 visa, or the Pacific Engagement Visa (PEV), is a permanent residency visa created for nationals of specific Pacific island countries and Timor-Leste. It allows selected individuals to live, work, and stay permanently in Australia — with the option to bring their spouse and children.
This visa is part of Australia’s larger plan to strengthen connections with the Pacific region and address labor shortages. Each year, up to 3,000 people can be selected through a random ballot (lottery) to apply.
In short, it’s a golden opportunity — especially if you’re eligible.
Countries Eligible for the Subclass 192 Visa
You can only apply if you’re a national of one of these countries:
- Fiji
- Papua New Guinea
- Solomon Islands
- Vanuatu
- Timor-Leste
- Tonga
- Nauru
- Federated States of Micronesia
- Palau
- Tuvalu
If your country isn’t listed, don’t worry. We’ll link you to other options you can explore to move to Australia legally.
👉 Read: Top 10 Easiest Countries to Get a Work Visa in 2025
Subclass 192 Visa Requirements (At a Glance)
You’ll need:
✅ Aged 18–45
✅ A valid job offer from an Australian employer
✅ Basic English communication skills (no IELTS needed in most cases)
✅ Clean criminal record & good health
✅ Be selected in the ballot (lottery)
✅ Include spouse and kids only (not extended family)
✅ No past visa violations in Australia
Sounds tough? It’s actually doable if you follow the steps below.
Step-by-Step Application Process for Subclass 192 Visa
Step 1: Register for the Ballot
You must register during the official ballot window using the ImmiAccount portal (Australia’s immigration site).
- 🗓️ Timing: Watch for open/close dates.
- 💵 Fee: AUD $25 (~₦40,000 or ₱950)
⚠️ It’s a random selection, so registering early doesn’t give you an edge — but if you don’t register, you can’t be selected.
Step 2: Wait for Ballot Results
If you’re picked, you’ll get an official invitation to apply for the visa.
- 📩 Valid for 120 days only
- 📎 You must apply within that time, or the offer expires
Step 3: Submit Your Visa Application
You’ll need to upload documents like:
- ✅ Proof of job offer
- ✅ Passport & ID
- ✅ Police clearance (character check)
- ✅ Medical exam reports
- ✅ Proof of English skills
- ✅ Family docs (if applying with spouse/children)
📍 Submit everything online via ImmiAccount.
Step 4: Wait for Decision
After submission, you’ll wait a few months. Immigration might request extra info. Once approved, you’ll get your Subclass 192 visa and PR status.
🎉 Welcome to your new life in Australia.
What You Get with the Subclass 192 Visa
✅ Live & work in Australia permanently
✅ Access to Australia’s public healthcare (Medicare)
✅ Bring your spouse and kids with you
✅ Freedom to switch jobs or sectors
✅ Pathway to Australian citizenship after meeting residency rules
Challenges to Expect
🚧 Getting a Job Offer: You’ll need a real job contract. Start applying early and network online.
🚧 Cost of Living: Cities like Sydney and Melbourne can be expensive. Budget wisely and consider smaller cities too.
🚧 Processing Delays: Be ready to wait 3–6 months or more. Patience is key.
FAQs
Can I apply without a job offer?
❌ No — you must have a valid job offer in Australia.
Is the ballot a guarantee?
❌ No. It’s random, and only 3,000 slots are available yearly.
What if I don’t get selected?
You can try again next year or explore other visas.
👉 Read: How to Move Abroad with Little Money (Part 1)
Can I bring my whole family?
✅ Yes — but only your spouse and dependent kids.
Final Thoughts (Real Talk 💬)
This visa might be your shot. If you’re from an eligible country, have basic English skills, and can land a job offer, you’ve got a real chance at Australian PR.
Don’t wait till others figure it out and flood the system. Start now. Build your CV, search for jobs, and get ready to register when the ballot opens.
👉 Bookmark this page and follow us for live updates on the Subclass 192 visa.
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