Status: Archived update
This is a dated record of a past INZ update. Confirm the current position before making plans.
Immigration New Zealand has published the official results of the 2026 Samoan Quota ballot following the draw conducted on 20 May 2026 [1]. This milestone concludes the annual selection process for successful registrants seeking New Zealand residence [1].
What this means in practice
The 2026 ballot draw selected sufficient registrations to allow up to 1,100 Samoan citizens to be granted residence [1]. Because individual registrations frequently include family members, the overall impact extends across wider households. Successful registrants receive formal notifications detailing application requirements and statutory timeframes for lodging residence paperwork. Unsuccessful registrants are not carried over to subsequent years and must submit a new registration when the ballot reopens.
Who should check this
This archived update is relevant for Samoan citizens who registered for the 2026 Samoan Quota ballot, their families, and advisers monitoring Pacific residence pathways.
Practical checklist
- Check official notification records to confirm whether your registration was selected in the 2026 draw.
- Review residence application requirements and deadlines if you received an invitation to apply.
- Monitor official channels for announcements regarding the opening dates of the next annual ballot.
Important limits or current position
The 2026 ballot window is fully closed, and no further registrations or appeals are accepted for this cycle. Securing a ballot placement provides an invitation to apply but does not guarantee visa approval, as all applications must independently meet standard health, character, and eligibility criteria. This article is general information, not individual immigration advice.
Not sure whether this update affects your plan? Start your NZ visa assessment
Source note: Based on an official Immigration New Zealand announcement published 29 May 2026 [1]. Article status: Archived update.
[1] Immigration New Zealand. (2026, May 29). 2026 Samoan quota ballot results. Open source on immigration.govt.nz ↗