Vanuatu has not been included in this year’s Pacific Engagement Visa (PEV) ballot, despite being part of the program in 2025.

Last year, Vanuatu was among 12 Pacific Island countries eligible to participate in the Australian visa scheme. However, the 2026 ballot list includes only 11 countries, with Vanuatu notably absent.

Speaking to VBTC News today, Director of Foreign Affairs Ivon Basil said the Government of Vanuatu has not received any formal notification from Australia regarding the country’s exclusion from the program.

“The Government has not been formally informed of any decision relating to Vanuatu’s exclusion from the Pacific Engagement Visa ballot,” Mr. Basil said.

The reason for Vanuatu’s omission remains unclear.

The development has sparked debate within Vanuatu, with some observers linking the decision to the long-pending Nakamal Agreement and broader geopolitical considerations in the region.

When approached for clarification and the reasons behind Vanuatu’s exclusion, a spokesperson for Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) did not directly address the questions. However, the spokesperson reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to strengthening its relationship with Vanuatu through the proposed Nakamal Agreement.

“Australia remains committed to finalising the Nakamal Agreement to strengthen our partnership with Vanuatu,” the spokesperson said.

“We approach this as equal partners and have been patient and respectful of Vanuatu’s domestic processes.”

The spokesperson added that Australia would continue to support Vanuatu’s priorities and seek to advance cooperation through the agreement, including in the area of labour mobility.

“Australia will continue to respond to Vanuatu’s priorities and seek to match its ambition through our Nakamal Agreement, including on mobility arrangements,” the spokesperson said.