(Adnkronos) – More than a third of Tuvalu’s population has already applied for a “climate visa” that would allow permanent migration to Australia, as part of a program launched on June 16th, which is already unique in its kind. Out of a total population of 10,600 people, 1,124 applications have been submitted, including a total of 4,052 Tuvaluan citizens with their families.
The program, called the “Pacific Engagement Visa”, grants permanent residency and access to services such as Medicare, childcare benefits, and public education. However, there are only 280 places available per year, allocated through a random draw, making the system highly competitive. Applications for 2025 will be accepted until July 18th, at a cost of 25 Australian dollars.
The new visa is part of the “Falepili Union” agreement signed in 2024 between Australia and Tuvalu, which also commits Canberra to defending the archipelago in the event of natural disasters or emergencies. According to NASA forecasts, by 2050 much of Tuvalu’s territory will be submerged by high tides. “For the first time, a state is committed to recognizing the future sovereignty of another, despite the devastating effects of climate change,” said Prime Minister Feleti Teo.
