The landmark visa initiative, launched on June 16, aims to assist Tuvaluans in response to climate-induced displacement, with significant demand observed among residents.
Tuvalu’s Citizens Rally for Groundbreaking Climate Visa to Australia
Tuvalu’s Citizens Rally for Groundbreaking Climate Visa to Australia
Over a third of the population of Tuvalu has applied for a pioneering climate change visa, enabling potential permanent migration to Australia.
In an unprecedented move, more than a third of Tuvalu’s citizens have sought to enter the ballot for a pioneering climate visa offered by Australia, which will allow successful applicants to migrate permanently. The applications opened on June 16, 2024, and have attracted considerable interest, suggesting the program may be heavily oversubscribed, with only 280 visas available through a lottery system each year.
Tuvalu, an island nation just five meters above sea level, stands as one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change impacts. As of June 27, a total of 1,124 applications had been submitted, representing a significant portion of Tuvalu’s population of 10,643 as per the 2022 census.
The Pacific Engagement visa, once granted, will offer beneficiaries indefinite permanent residency in Australia alongside rights to travel, access to healthcare through Medicare, educational subsidies, and the ability to study on equal terms with Australian citizens. The entry fee to the 2025 ballot is A$25 (£11.93, $16.37), closing on July 18.
This initiative forms part of the Australia-Tuvalu Falepili Union, which was established in August 2024 and underscores Australia’s commitment to defending Tuvalu against natural disasters and climate risks. Prime Minister Feleti Teo highlighted this as a significant moment, noting that it legally recognizes Tuvalu’s sovereignty amid sea-level rise influenced by climate change.
Experts from NASA warn that by 2050, much of Tuvalu’s land and vital infrastructure will likely be submersed below high tide levels, raising urgent questions about the future of its people.
Tuvalu, an island nation just five meters above sea level, stands as one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change impacts. As of June 27, a total of 1,124 applications had been submitted, representing a significant portion of Tuvalu’s population of 10,643 as per the 2022 census.
The Pacific Engagement visa, once granted, will offer beneficiaries indefinite permanent residency in Australia alongside rights to travel, access to healthcare through Medicare, educational subsidies, and the ability to study on equal terms with Australian citizens. The entry fee to the 2025 ballot is A$25 (£11.93, $16.37), closing on July 18.
This initiative forms part of the Australia-Tuvalu Falepili Union, which was established in August 2024 and underscores Australia’s commitment to defending Tuvalu against natural disasters and climate risks. Prime Minister Feleti Teo highlighted this as a significant moment, noting that it legally recognizes Tuvalu’s sovereignty amid sea-level rise influenced by climate change.
Experts from NASA warn that by 2050, much of Tuvalu’s land and vital infrastructure will likely be submersed below high tide levels, raising urgent questions about the future of its people.
