Archived update: Registration for the 2026 Pacific Access Category and Samoan Quota ballots closed on 30 April 2026 [1]. This is a dated record of a past INZ update. Confirm the current position before making plans.
Immigration New Zealand opened annual residence ballot registrations for eligible citizens of Samoa, Tonga, Fiji, Kiribati, and Tuvalu on 1 April 2026 [1]. Because the registration window and ballot draw have concluded, this update is retained as a historical record [1].
What this means in practice
The Pacific Access Category and Samoan Quota ballots provide annual residence pathways for qualifying citizens across five Pacific nations [1]. For the 2026 intake, established quotas permitted up to 1,100 Samoan citizens, 250 Tongan citizens, 250 Fijian citizens, 75 Kiribati citizens, and 75 Tuvaluan citizens to be selected [1]. New submissions for this annual round are no longer accepted, and successful registrants drawn in the ballot held on 20 May 2026 were notified directly by Immigration New Zealand [1].
Who should check this
This archived update is relevant for registered participants who entered the 2026 ballot, community leaders, and individuals reviewing historical New Zealand residence intake numbers for Pacific nations [1].
Practical checklist
- Verify ballot notification status directly through individual Immigration New Zealand accounts if registered before the deadline [1].
- Review official INZ documentation requirements for any successful ballot invitation received following the draw [1].
- Monitor official channels for future Pacific Access Category and Samoan Quota annual ballot announcements [1].
- Consult published criteria regarding ongoing eligibility standards, including employment and income requirements [1].
Important limits or current position
Entering the ballot does not guarantee selection, and a ballot invitation does not constitute a visa grant [1]. All formal residence applications remain subject to statutory health, character, and eligibility criteria [1]. 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 on 1 April 2026 [1]. Article status: Archived update.
[1] Immigration New Zealand. (2026, April 1). Pacific Access Category and Samoan Quota registrations are now open for 2026. Open source on immigration.govt.nz ↗