Pacific Engagement Visa Online Application: Eligibility and How to Apply

The Australian Government has introduced the Pacific Engagement Visa (PEV), a new permanent resident visa aimed at strengthening connections between Australia and the Pacific region. This initiative offers up to 3,000 visas annually to nationals from participating Pacific countries and Timor-Leste through a ballot process.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Pacific Engagement Visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Age: Applicants must be between 18 to 45 years old.

2. Nationality: Hold a valid passport from a participating country.

3. Birthplace: Applicants or their parents must have been born in an eligible country.

4. Job Offer: Secure a formal ongoing job offer in Australia (either the primary applicant or their spouse/partner).

5. Language: Meet basic English language requirements.

6. Health and Character: Fulfill health and character requirements.

7. Registration Fee: Pay a $25 registration fee to enter the ballot.

Participating Countries

The countries currently participating in the Pacific Engagement Visa program include:

• Federated States of Micronesia
• Fiji
• Nauru
• Palau

• Papua New Guinea

• Solomon Islands
• Timor-Leste
• Tonga
• Tuvalu
• Vanuatu

How to Apply

1. Register for the Ballot: Prospective applicants must first register for the ballot online through the Department of Home Affairs' ImmiAccount. The ballot involves an electronic random selection process.

2. Ballot Selection: If selected in the ballot, applicants can then proceed to apply for the Pacific Engagement Visa.

3. Submit Application: Complete the visa application, including details of the job offer, English language proficiency, and health and character checks.

4. Include Family Members: Applicants can include their partner and legally dependent children in their application.

The Pacific Engagement Visa aims to provide fair and transparent access to the program, fostering greater cultural, business, and educational exchange between Australia and the Pacific region.

For more information and updates, visit the:

• Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade website https://www.dfat.gov.au/geo/pacific/peopl e-connections/people-connections-in-the-pacific/pacific-engagement-visa.
• Pacific Engagement Visa | Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade https://www.dfat.gov.au/geo/pacific/people-connections/people-connections-in-the-pacific/pacific-engagement-visa
• Pacific Engagement Visa frequently asked questions https://www.dfat.gov.au/sites/default/files/pev-palm-faq.pdf

Papua New Guinea Visa: All You Need to Know About PNG Visas and How to Apply

Papua New Guinea (PNG) offers several types of visas for overseas applicants who wish to travel to the country for various purposes. These visa types include:

• Business Short-Term Single Entry, 
• Restricted Employment Visa (REV), 
• Aid Worker/Volunteer, 
• Easy Visitor Permit (30 days), and 
• Working Resident/Consultant Specialist Visa. 

It is important for applicants to understand the conditions, application process, cost, duration, and facts about each visa type before applying.

Read about the auto-grant PNG e-Visa Online

You can also find out about the eligible countries here.

Business Short-Term Single Entry Visa

This visa is for individuals who plan to visit PNG for short-term business activities, such as

• official trade missions, 
• buying or selling goods and services, 
• supporting infrastructure projects, or
• negotiating business setups. 

Applicants must demonstrate that they are genuine business persons or have approved employment and intend to leave PNG at the end of their stay. 

The visa is valid for a single entry and for a period of 30 days from the date of arrival. 

The application can be submitted online, and there is a Migration Service Fee (MSF) of US$350, along with an additional administrative fee of US$50 for e-Visa applications.

Restricted Employment Visa (REV)

This visa is for individuals with specialised skills and technical expertise that are not available in PNG. The visa is valid for a single entry and for a period of 30 days from the date of arrival. 

There is a Migration Service Fee (MSF) of US$350, along with an additional administrative fee of US$50 for e-Visa applications. 

Applicants are limited to four entries per calendar year and are prohibited from travelling to restricted facilities in the country without permission from the Chief Migration Officer.

Aid Worker/Volunteer Visa

This visa is for individuals who intend to visit PNG to undertake activities sponsored or facilitated by the Youth With A Mission (YWAM) organization. 

The visa prohibits the holder from engaging in paid work and requires applicants to demonstrate that they are genuine visitors sponsored by YWAM and intend to leave PNG at the end of their stay. 

The visa is valid for a period of up to 12 months from the day of first arrival and allows for a single entry within the 12-month period.

Easy Visitor Permit (30 days)

This visa is for individuals who plan to visit PNG for

• holidays, 
• sightseeing, 
• social or recreational reasons, or 
• to visit relatives and friends. 

There is no Migration Service Fee (MSF) payable for the Visitor Permit, but applications lodged via the e-Visa portal will attract a fee of US$50. The visa prohibits the holder from engaging in paid work.

Working Resident/Consultant Specialist Visa

This visa is for individuals who intend to visit PNG to undertake consultancy services that are sponsored by economic and industrial companies, including the government sector. 

The visa allows for short-term employment in PNG and requires applicants to demonstrate that they are genuine visitors sponsored by one of the mentioned sectors. 

The visa is valid for a single entry and for a period of 90 days (3 months) from the date of entry.

How to Apply for Papua New Guinea Visa

Applicants can apply for these visas online or through paper lodgment via the e-lodgment site through email address: newentries@immigration.gov.pg managed at the PNGICA, HQ for processing and issuance by any of the PNG diplomatic missions/posts overseas upon request. 

The application process typically involves:

• completing the online application or Application for Entry Permit (Form 1), 
• paying the Migration Service Fee (MSF) and online lodgment fee (if applicable), and 
• providing supporting documents.

Examples of supporting documents include a passport bio-data page and documentary evidence from business associates in PNG. 

The evidence you provide must indicate the purpose of the visit, duration of stay, location of business activity, and proposed frequency of visits. The fees are levied in US Dollars and converted into PNG Kina using the published conversion rate. It

Cost of PNG Visa

The cost of visas for Papua New Guinea varies depending on the type of visa and the method of application (this is indicated above). 

In addition, the Migration Service Fee (MSF) for the Business Restricted Special Exemption Visitor Working Resident/Consultant Specialist Visa is US$350, with an additional US$50 administrative fee for applications lodged via the e-Visa portal. 

The Easy Visitor Permit (30 days) does not require an MSF, but applications lodged via the e-Visa portal will attract a fee of US$50. 

It's important to note that all MSF and online lodgement fees are levied in US Dollars and converted into Papua New Guinea Kina (PGK) using the published conversion rate prior to the finalisation of application registration.

Duration of Papua New Guinea Visa

The duration of visas for Papua New Guinea also varies depending on the type of visa. Here are the eligible countries.

The Business Short-Term Single Entry visa is valid for a single entry and a period of thirty (30) days from the date of arrival in Papua New Guinea. 

The Restricted Employment Visa (REV) is also valid for a single entry and a period of thirty (30) days from the date of arrival in Papua New Guinea, with a limit of four (4) entries per calendar year. 

The AID Worker/Volunteer visa is valid for a period of stay up to 12 months from the day of first arrival in Papua New Guinea and allows for a single entry within the 12-month period.

The Working Resident/Consultant Specialist Visa is valid for a single entry and a period of ninety (90) days (3 months) from the date of entry in Papua New Guinea.

Facts Applicants Need to Know

1. Genuine Intentions

Applicants for all types of visas for Papua New Guinea must show genuine intentions to visit for the purpose stated in their visa application and with the intention of leaving Papua New Guinea at the end of their stay.

2. Visa Conditions

Each type of visa comes with specific conditions that must be adhered to. 

For example, the:

• Business Short-Term Single Entry visa allows for short-term business activities as approved by the Papua New Guinea government, 
• AID Worker/Volunteer visa expressly prohibits engaging in paid work, and 
• Working Resident/Consultant Specialist Visa is limited to consultancy services sponsored by economic and industrial companies including the government sector.

3. Visa Validity

It's important to note the validity of the visa, which may vary depending on the type of visa. 

Overstaying the visa duration may result in adverse consequences and could affect future travel to Papua New Guinea.

4. Entry Requirements

It's the responsibility of the applicant to ensure they have the appropriate visa or are eligible to obtain a visa on arrival in Papua New Guinea before commencing their travel. 

Attempting to enter Papua New Guinea without a valid visa may result in a denial of entry.

Know About PNG Visas

Ib conclusion, Papua New Guinea offers various types of visas for overseas applicants depending on their intended purpose of visit. 

It's essential for applicants to carefully review the requirements and conditions of each visa type before applying.

Following the proper visa application process and adhering to the visa conditions will ensure a smooth travel experience to Papua New Guinea.

Download Papua New Guinea Passport Application Form (PDF Fillable)

Applying for a passport is an essential step for anyone planning to travel abroad. In this article, we provide the link to download PNG application form (PDF fillable) and the steps for how to complete the Papua New Guinea (PNG) Passport Application Form. 

With clear instructions and important details, you'll be ready to embark on your journey. To begin, download the application form:

Download the PNG Passport Application Form (PDF Fillable) - if you have a problem downloading, 'request access' and leave a message in the comment section below.

Hong Kong Central - PNG passport holders get Visa On Arrival

Where to Apply

To start the application process, submit your completed PNG Passport Application Form to either the Immigration and Citizenship Service Authority in Port Moresby or the Collector of Customs at various ports. 

Remember, each person must submit a separate application form. It is advisable to apply at least three weeks before your intended departure from Papua New Guinea.

PNG Passport Application Fee

To process your passport application, a fee of K100 is required. Visit your nearest cash office to make the payment, and ensure you attach the receipt to your application. 

For detailed information on fees, please refer to the official website of the Immigration and Citizenship Service Authority.

Collection of Passport

Once your application is processed, your passport will be sent to you via registered post. However, you also have the option to collect it in person or designate an agent to do so on your behalf. 

If you choose the latter, the agent must present the original custody receipt for the application.

Change of Name

If you have changed your name, provide all details of your previous names used in the application form. This ensures accurate record-keeping and avoids any complications during the application process.

Previous Travel Documents

Attach your previous travel document to the application form, unless it has been lost, stolen, or destroyed. In such cases, additional fees may apply. 

Refer to the PNG Immigration website for more information on the specific fees associated with lost or stolen passports.

Evidence of Citizenship

Accompany your application with evidence of your citizenship. Fill out Attachment 'A' on page 4 of the application form to provide the necessary information. 

Submit your birth certificate or citizenship certificate. Married women should also include their marriage certificate.

Certificate Regarding Applicant

On page 3 of the application form, a certificate regarding the applicant must be completed. 

This certificate can be provided by authorized individuals such as:

• lawyers, 
• medical practitioners, 
• magistrates, 
• ministers of religion, 
• commissioned officers of the defence and police force, and 
• commissioners of oaths. 

The person completing the certificate should have known the applicant for at least three years.

Consent of Parents

Applicants under 17 years of age must obtain the consent of their parents or legal guardians. This consent should be provided on page 2 of the application form.

Photographs

Include two recent photographs with your application. These photographs should be head and shoulders only, taken with a light-coloured background, and conform to the dimensions of 35mm x 45mm. 

The person who signs the certificate regarding the applicant on page 3 should also endorse the back of one photograph as a genuine representation of the applicant.

Declaration

The applicant, or the lodging parent or legal guardian in the case of a child, must sign the declaration on page 3. 

It is essential to provide truthful and accurate information in this section, as providing false or misleading information is a criminal offence.

Your Signature

The applicant must sign both of the small signature labels on page 3 of the application form using a ballpoint pen. 

Care should be taken to stay within the marked borders. In cases where the applicant is unable to sign, a line should be drawn through both of the small signature labels.

Final words

Obtaining a Papua New Guinea passport is a crucial step for international travel. By following the instructions outlined in this article, you will be well-prepared to complete the PNG Passport Application Form. 

Remember to allow sufficient time for processing, attach all required documents, and provide accurate information. 

To download the application form and begin your passport application, visit the official website of the Immigration and Citizenship Service Authority or click on the link provided above.

PNG Visa Online Auto-Grant Function Reactivated 2022

Minister for Immigration and Labour, Bryan Kramer, re-launched the auto-grant system (PNG Visa Online Service) to reduce the high volume of applications and improve turnaround time for clients.

PNG Visa Online Auto-Grant Function Reactivated

How to apply for PNG Entry Visa in Australia

Eligible applicants for PNG Visa Online 

Kramer stated that the system is independent and will only be for selected visa classes including 

• Tourists (own itinerary and tour package), 
• visiting relative, 
• yacht person (crew and owner), 
• easy visitor permit (30/60 days) and 
• the Restricted Employment Visa.

The minister said...

“This system is now available. PNG Immigration have used it before during the APEC in 2018, the Women’s Soccer World Cup and the Pacific Games in Port Moresby to facilitate large volumes of delegates. I want to reactivate this in a similar way but with strict conditions attached to the auto-grant letters,”

PNG Visa Online fast approval

The auto-grant will allow tourists and visitors on short-term visits to get their visas granted immediately instead of waiting for seven days to get approval.

“The PNG Immigration and Citizenship Authority (ICA) will step up its compliance and enforcement efforts to ensure visitors are complying with the conditions set out in the auto-grant letters. 

With limited staff on strength, I am taking this option so personnel in the department can concentrate on other visa categories that need careful assessment and consideration”.

The auto-granting of PNG Visa Online applications does not in any way compromise the integrity of the systems or pose security risks.

Related articles:

• To renew your PNG Passport, check out this article.
•  How to get PNG Birth Certificate
• Requirements for registering Civil Partnership/Marriage in PNG
• Location of PNG Immigration Office, Waigani
• How to apply for PNG Entry Visa in Australia

PNG Consulate Brisbane, Sydney and Cairns

Papua New Guineans and friends in Australia can get help from the PNG Consulate in Brisbane, Sydney and Cairns. Besides the 3 Consulate Generals, the High Commissioner is based in Canberra. 

PNG Consulates in Australia

Papua New Guineans living and working in Australia can seek travel info and assistance from the consulates near you.

Citizens from qualified countries may be able to travel to Papua New Guinea without a visa. The most common types of Papua New Guinea visas are the following.

• Transit visa
• Tourist visa
• Business visa
• Diplomatic visa

Here is how to apply for a visa including the latest (2022) PNG entry visa online application info

PNG Consulates' Address

• PNG General in Brisbane - The new location is Level 1, 316 Adelaide Street, Brisbane City QLD 4000
• PNG Consulate in Sydney - Suite G, 04, 247 Coward Street Mascot Sydney, NSW
• PNG Consulate Cairns 42-44 Spence Street P.O. Box 4886 Cairns, QLD

PNG High Commission – Canberra

• High Commissioner, His Excellency Mr John Kali
• Minister & Deputy High Commissioner, Mr. Sakias Tameo
• Second Secretary, Mrs. Morgan Pehara
• Third Secretary, Ms. Lucy Kila
• Administration Officer, Mr. Sodina Bun
• Visa Officer, Mrs. Jin Howatson

Street Address: 39-41 Forster Crescent, Yarralumla ACT 2600

Postal Address: P.O. Box E6317, Kingston ACT 2604

Contact PNG High Commission

High Commission:  kundu@pngcanberra.org

Visa Section:            visa@pngcanberra.org

Tel: (02) 6273 3322

How to Apply for Papua New Guinea (PNG) Visa?

Note that in a recent media release (2022), the Immigration Minister re-launched the Online PNG Entry Visa Application function. Its aim is to fast-track the backlog of visa applications. Only certain groups of visitors are eligible for the online fast-track visa - PNG VISA

PNG entry visa comprises several classes. Find out which one suits you. 

Classes of PNG Entry Visas

Tourist (Tour Package)

Relevant documents are provided (eg: A letter from Tour Group)

Group tours, student excursion groups, etc.

Tourist (own itinerary)

Relevant documents are provided (eg: Letter stating the purpose of the visit)

Individuals who wish to sightsee independently, travel, or visit friends, etc.

Easy Visitor Permits (EVP)

EVPs are strictly issued upon arrival in PNG to eligible nationals only, please refer to the list (Visa on arrival eligible country list) at www.immigration.gov.pg.

Visiting Relative

For individuals visiting husbands, wives, or other family members.

Journalist

For reporters, TV presenters, announcers and correspondents.

Yachtsperson

Owner, captain, and crew of a yacht as well as any accompanying spouse and/or children.

Validity of PNG Visa

All visitor entry permits are valid for a single entry stay of sixty (60) days from the date of arrival. Work is prohibited.

Where to apply

Application for all the above classes can be made at any PNG Diplomatic Mission.

Applications for tourist/visiting relative entry permits (for eligible nationals) can also be made on arrival at designated international ports of entry.

For those arriving by yacht, applications can be made at ICD or at the designated international port of entry.

How to apply for PNG Visa

1. Complete the “Application for Entry Permit” (Form 1)

2. Pay the Migration Service Fee (MSF)

3. Provide passport and documentary evidence.

Check out the countries eligible for the NEW online entry visa application.

Support documents to attach with the application form

• Tourist (both tour package and own itinerary):
• Return/ongoing ticket;
• Evidence of funds (if required).
• Visiting Relative:
• Return/ongoing ticket
• Evidence of funds (if required).

Journalist's Entry Visa to PNG

• Return/ongoing ticket
• Letter from sponsoring organization and list of equipment.
• Approval from the International Organization Branch of the Department of Foreign Affairs & Immigration must be obtained prior to the entry permit issue.

Yacht Person Entry Visa to PNG

• Proof of ownership of vessel/ captain’s papers;
• Ship’s log for details of crewmembers;
• Customs Clearance form must be completed.
• Accompanying dependents and crewmembers are issued a Tourist/visitor entry permit upon arrival.

Extension of stay in PNG

Extensions can be granted once only for a maximum of thirty (30) days whilst in PNG.

Applicants for extension should:

• Complete the “Application to Extend Entry Permit” (Form 4);
• Pay the MSF as set out in the Summary Table.
• Provide a letter stating the reasons for the extension.
• Provide a copy of the return airline ticket.
• Further applications will not be considered.

How much to pay in PNG Visa fees

All Tourist Visas are free.

Journalist - effective 1 April 2014 the fee is AU$435.00*

*Check the local PNG Consulate or High Commission for the latest fees and travel info.

A blooming orchid, Port Moresby Adventure Park

PNG eVisa Apply Online from 20 Eligible Countries

PNG Immigration and Citizenship Authority (PNGI&CA) electronic visa (eVisa) can now be accessed worldwide in more than 20 countries. 

Facebook/PNG I&CA

PNGI&CA is expanding our eVisa to all APEC member economies including Russia and Commonwealth member States including India, South Africa and Cyprus.

Nationals from one of those countries can now apply online and receive visas instantly to travel to PNG without the need to visit a PNG Embassy or High Commission.

The expansion of eVisa gives access to about 3 billion prospective visitors and tourists to visit PNG.

PNGI&CA as a PNG Border Agency is using its role to generate revenue and promote prosperity for our people.

PNG's eVisa is a world standard traveller facilitation system which allows applicants to apply for visas anytime, anywhere in the world as long as they are connected to the internet.

Reposted Facebook/PNGI&CA

EU Visa Processing for PNG Citizens to be Available in Port Moresby

In a recent visit to the African Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) Group of States and the European Union (EU) in Brussels in November, Foreign Affairs and Trade Minister, Rimbink Pato, announced that EU visa processing for Papua New Guinea (PNG) citizens will soon be available in Port Moresby. 

This development has been eagerly anticipated by PNG's exporters, importers, and citizens, as it eliminates the need to travel to other countries, such as Singapore, Manila, or Australia, at great expense to obtain their visas.

National Newspaper 01 November 2018

EU visas for PNG citizens

The National Newspaper reported on November 1, 2018, that a key outcome of the visit was the agreement to process EU visas for PNG citizens in Port Moresby by mid-2019. 

As the middle of 2019 approaches, many people are eagerly awaiting an update on the progress of this promise.

This development is significant as it will make it more convenient and cost-effective for PNG citizens to obtain visas for travel to European countries. 

Visa for European countries

Currently, obtaining a visa for European countries requires travel to other countries where EU visa processing centres are located. This can be time-consuming and costly for PNG citizens, who have to bear the expenses of travel, accommodation, and other associated costs. 

By having EU visa processing available in Port Moresby, PNG citizens will be able to save both time and money, making travel to Europe more accessible and convenient.

EU visa processing in Port Moresby

The availability of EU visa processing in Port Moresby is expected to have a positive impact on PNG's exporters and importers as well. 

Many PNG businesses engage in trade with European countries, and obtaining visas for business purposes can be a cumbersome process. 

With EU visa processing available locally, businesses can expect reduced administrative burdens and costs associated with obtaining visas, which could potentially boost trade between PNG and European countries.

Strengthen diplomatic relations - EU and PNG

It is worth noting that the implementation of EU visa processing in Port Moresby is part of the broader efforts by the PNG government to strengthen diplomatic relations and promote trade and tourism with European countries. 

The government's efforts in this regard are aimed at fostering economic growth, creating job opportunities, and improving the livelihoods of PNG citizens.

As the mid-2019 deadline approaches, PNG citizens, businesses, and stakeholders are eagerly anticipating the availability of EU visa processing in Port Moresby. 

Once implemented, this development is expected to bring about greater convenience and cost savings for PNG citizens, as well as support increased trade and tourism between PNG and Europe.

PNG Work Permit One Entry, One Work Permit, One Job

The Government plans to review the work permits of all expatriates to ensure conditions have not been breached, and rules on the issuing of new ones will be stricter.

Labour and Industrial Relations Minister Mehrra Kipefa told The National that the department would implement a new policy from next year to tighten the issuing of work permits. A policy paper on it is currently before the National Executive Council.

“Our new policy starting next year will be one entry, one job,” Kipefa said.

Recommended: How to Renew PNG Passport

“We will review all work permits issued to expatriates to ensure they have only one job for which they were issued work or entry permit to work in the country.”

He said there had been some instances where some expats were granted a permit to do a certain job but then did other jobs.

“Those who are found to be doing such will have to be disciplined, including cancelling their work permits and having them repatriated back to their home country,” Kipefa said.

Kipefa said there were a lot of things to be fixed and he would seek the support of fellow ministers and state agencies to get things fixed.

 “We also have a lot of technical people coming into the country and doing jobs which our own people have the knowledge and the skills to do, and can competently perform,” he said.

“That is another issue I will be addressing.

“We will only issue work permits and recruit expatriates on jobs that Papua New Guineans are not able to perform.

“And these expatriates will be required to also train Papua New Guineans when they are employed here.”

Kipefa said jobs that Papua New Guineans could perform must be given to them.

“We will classify certain jobs, especially technical and skilled jobs only for our citizens,” he said.

“That is what I will be driving and we are looking at bringing the National Apprentice and Trade Test to the provinces and the districts.

“We have started with Mingende in Chimbu by launching a Trade Testing Centre for carpentry at the Saint Mary’s Technical School last week.

“And based on the success, we are looking at accrediting trade tests for other technical courses like mechanical, electrical, welding and plumbing.”

Kipefa said the policy on “one entry or work permit, one job” was expected to be tabled during the first sitting of Parliament next year.

“I am looking forward to giving a ministerial statement in Parliament on the policy and to commence the implementation,” Kipefa said.

The National