New Zealand registrations for the 2026 Samoan Quota and Pacific Access Category will open on 1 April at 8 am, offering citizens from the Pacific a pathway to permanent residency in New Zealand.

The Samoan Quota and Pacific Access Category are two longstanding visa programs that operate through an annual ballot, allowing Pacific nationals to apply for residence in New Zealand. This year, up to 1,100 Samoan citizens, 250 Tongan citizens, 250 Fijian citizens, 75 Kiribati citizens, and 75 Tuvaluan citizens may be invited to apply. Interested individuals can register for the ballot online, with guides available to assist the process.

Online resources, including guides and flyers, are provided in English and Samoan for the Samoan Quota, and in several Pacific languages for the Pacific Access Category, on the “Resident visas for Samoa, Kiribati, Tuvalu, Tonga and Fiji nationals” page. The ballot will close on April 30 at 5 pm.

Moemoe Sene, a prospective applicant, said, “Many people are expressing hope and excitement about the opportunity to apply for the Samoan Quota and Pacific Access. In my opinion, it offers a chance for a better future, with one person noting that it could mean improved job opportunities and education for their children in New Zealand. 

"My husband and I have been waiting for the ballot to open, and we will definitely apply this year. It will be the second time we apply for the quota, even though we understand selection is not guaranteed. Many acknowledge that the process depends on luck, but still see it as a valuable opportunity worth trying.”

Tomasi Godinet highlighted some of the challenges involved, saying, “The process is stressful due to the uncertainty of being selected, while others pointed out that moving overseas is a major life decision that comes with financial and emotional adjustments. 

"There are also concerns about the costs and requirements after selection. Despite this, many agree that these programs have helped Samoan families over the years, while also expressing hope for more opportunities to be created locally.”

The Samoan Quota and Pacific Access Category have long provided avenues for Pacific families to establish themselves in New Zealand, reflecting both hope and caution as applicants navigate the competitive annual ballot.