Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has published the successful registrations for the 2026 Pacific Access Category ballot. According to INZ, the draw was held on 20 May 2026.
INZ says enough registrations were drawn to allow up to 250 Tongan citizens, 250 Fijian citizens, 75 Kiribati citizens and 75 Tuvaluan citizens to apply for New Zealand residence. Those whose registrations were drawn are invited to apply for residence under the Pacific Access Category quota.
INZ notes that the number of registrations drawn is lower than the number of people who will ultimately be granted residence, because many registrations include several family members. For example, a single registration may cover a family of four.
If a registration number is listed
INZ says that where a registration number appears on the lists, that registration was successfully drawn and the registrant will be invited to apply for New Zealand residence. INZ states it will be in touch with successful registrants with information on how to apply for a Pacific Access Category Resident Visa.
If a registration number is not listed
INZ advises that registration numbers not appearing on the lists were not drawn on this occasion, meaning those registrants cannot apply for New Zealand residence under the 2026 Pacific Access Category at this time. INZ says people can register again when the Pacific Access Category ballot reopens in 2027.
