2026 Samoan Quota and Pacific Access Category Registrations Now Open
Registrations are now open for the 2026 Samoan Quota and Pacific Access Category (PAC). These annual ballots provide a pathway to New Zealand residence for eligible citizens of Samoa, Tonga, Kiribati, and Tuvalu.
Key points
- ✓Samoan Quota: open to Samoan citizens, 1,100 places available annually.
- ✓Pacific Access Category: covers Tonga, Kiribati, and Tuvalu.
- ✓Applicants must register during the open period to be included in the ballot.
- ✓Contact us to check your eligibility and ensure your registration is complete.
Registrations are now open for the 2026 Samoan Quota and Pacific Access Category (PAC).
The Samoan Quota allows up to 1,100 Samoan citizens and their families to apply for residence in New Zealand each year.
The Pacific Access Category covers eligible citizens of Tonga, Kiribati, and Tuvalu.
To be eligible for either programme, you must meet requirements around age, English language, health, character, and an offer of employment in New Zealand.
Registrations are only accepted during the open window each year — missing the registration period means waiting until the following year.
Information on this page is for general guidance only. Always refer to Immigration New Zealand for authoritative requirements.
Not sure how this affects you?
Our licensed advisers in Auckland can assess your specific situation.