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 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

How to track Australian passport application

You can now track the delivery of your Australian passport through the Registered Post Tracking Number. This number is in the email and SMS messagesa that the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade sends to you to let you know your passport is on its way. 

You can use the number to check the passport’s delivery status on Australia Post’s website and app.

Here are 3 ways to track your Australian passport application

1) Track without logging in

You can track your parcel without an account or logging in. All you need is the Registered Post Tracking Number.

2) MyPost account

If you already have an Australian Port account, you can keep track of your Australian passport application including all your parcels in one place.

You can also create a new account if that is necessary for the long run.

3) Download the AusPost app

Download the AusPost app and use it to check on your parcels no matter where you are.

Track passport application

It normally takes 3 weeks to receive a passport. The Australian Passport Office will email you when they despatch your passport. Allow 5-6 business days for delivery.

If you’ve received a tracking number, use it to track your passport delivery.

How to Renew Australian Passport Online

There are two ways of renewing (and applying) your Australian Passport, either online or by what is called the streamlined process which is done via Australian post. This article gives information about what to do to renew your Australian passport online.

How to Renew Australian Passport Online?

There are two ways of renewing (and applying) your Australian Passport, either online or by what is called the streamlined process which is done via Australian post. This article gives information about what to do to renew your Australian passport online.

How to Renew Australian Passport Online 

It’s easy. Just go to our online application and follow the prompts.

You’ll get a personalised application checklist or a completed application form. You’ll need to download it online, print it out and lodge it. 

Include your two passport photos and any original documents that the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DfAT) requires. 

Alternatively, if you are in the country, send the completed application through the Australia Post outlet or lodge it with an Australian diplomatic or consular mission where you are.

Find out how to track the Australian Passport Application using the registered post tracking number.

What if I don’t want to go online?

If going online isn’t an option for you, just ask for a blank application form at a participating Australia Post outlet or an Australian diplomatic or consular mission.

For streamlined renewal without going online, you’ll have to call us on 131 232 or contact an Australian diplomatic or consular mission. DFAT will confirm that you qualify, and send you a pre-filled form by mail or by email.

Our PNG Readers here is the information on How to Renew Your PNG Passport Online

Can I get a passport renewal form at Australia Post?

Yes, but not for streamlined renewal.

The form to ask for is called ‘Application for an Australian Passport’. 

• For adults, the form is green.
•  For children, the form is purple.

As well as two passport photographs, you’ll need your birth certificate and other original documents to establish your identity and citizenship. You’ll also need a guarantor.

Check out how to apply for working holiday visa Australia

How do I get a form for streamlined renewal?

The easiest way to take advantage of streamlined renewal is by using our online service.

If that’s not an option for you, you can call us on 131 232 if you’re in Australia or contact an Australian diplomatic or consular mission if you’re overseas.

Calling outside peak periods (9am to 3pm) may reduce your wait time.

Read about How to renew your Australian ADULT Passport online and apply for a CHILD passport

Reader note: We've updated the information for our visitors - please see the  Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade website for more information on How to Renew Your Australian Passport Online. 

BIRTH CERTIFICATE MANDATORY FOR OBTAINING NEW PNG PASSPORT

Chief Migration Officer says the office of Immigration and Citizenship authority will not compromise the integrity of PNG passports.

Birth Certificate Mandatory when applying for PNG Passport (Image: Facebook)

He said this on his social media page today in response to a Drum piece in the Post Courier suggesting his office should relax its rigid stance that citizens should acquire national identification cards in order to apply for a passport.

PNG national identity cards

The Coca-Cola national schools rugby league tour to Queensland Australia was deferred because 75 per cent of the Under 18 boys and girls do not have the national identity cards to obtain a passport.

“The students are from around the country and the process is quite rigorous to get the NID certificate,” PNGRFL chief executive Reatau Rau said.

Kantha in response to the Drum piece said: “Let me place on record that a birth certificate is a mandatory requirement for a passport and ICA will not compromise the integrity of our PNG passports.

NID and birth certificates required for PNG Passports

‘The detection of false NID birth certificates will affect the integrity of our passport system and affects the position of countries granting visa on arrival for PNG passport holders,”he added.

The NID is a fundamental and primary requirement for a passport and once this is compromised our passports will be questioned at entry ports in other countries and we will not be able to get to a stage of introducing biometric or e-Passports,” he said.

“Our birth registry process and NID must step up and improve or we will not get anywhere. All support must be given to Mr (Noel) Mobiha who is doing his best under trying circumstances.”

Source: Facebook October 1

PNG Passport Application Form, Fee and PNGICA Offices You Should Know

The information provided here is for citizens applying for PNG Passports. The three pieces of information are for PNG citizens wanting to:

•  apply for a PNG passport/travel document  from anywhere in PNG other than Port Moresby, 

• get a child's birth registration certificate (registration of a Child born overseas), and

• know the four (4) requirements for a new PNG Passport application.

If you renew a child's passport or yours, the info provided in the recommended read below will be helpful.

Recommended read: 

PNG Passport Application Form Completion Guide for Passport Renewal

PNG passport  application at your nearest provincial office

Passport applicants do not need to travel to Port Moresby to lodge your PNG Passport application. The applicants can now lodge at one of our provincial offices near one of the centres nearest to you.

PNG Immigration and Citizenship Authority offices are located in border provinces and in some main towns. PNGICA staff in provincial and border posts can assist you with your passport needs.

PNGICA has offices in

• Daru,
• Port Moresby,
• Alotau, 
• Lae,
• Mt Hagen,
• Vanimo,
• Wutung
• Tokua (Kokopo) and 
• Buka.

PNGICA will soon have a new passport lodgement office at Koitachi Haus in Gordons, Port Moresby to meet our clients’ needs.

Registration of Overseas Birth – PNG Citizens

If your child is born overseas, you MUST register the child for the purpose of PNG Citizenship. This must be undertaken within 12 months of the child’s birth. 

This also applies to legally adopted children.

If your child is older than 12 months but younger than 18 years, you have to attach a detailed statement of facts. If you have convincing reasons, the Minister for Immigration may allow your application.

The application must be completed by a parent who is a PNG Citizen. Ensure to fill and attach all documents. Registration is free, no fee applies.

Email citizenship@immigration.gov.pg for more info. Download the Overseas Birth Registration Form through this link (FORM C1 PDF)

PNG Passport information

To download the PNG passport application form (PDF Fillable), click here

Applications should be completed at least three (3) weeks before you leave the country. A passport is a travel document that certifies the identity and nationality of its holder mainly for the purpose of international travel.

Here are the requirements for a new PNG Passport application.

1. Fill out the PNG Passport Application Form

2. Attach two (2) current Passport size photos

3. Attach a copy of your NID Issued Birth Certificate, &

4. Receipt of payment - only K100.

Note: For fast processing, a fee of K300 is charged and you’ll get your passport within 48 hours.

You can download the Passport Application form through this link (Application for Travel Document, PDF)

Source: Image and info reposted from PNG Immigration and Citizenship Authority social media account. 

If you have any questions, leave a comment below.