Overview

• More than 3,000 Tuvaluans entered the ballot within ten days of its June 16 opening, representing nearly one-third of the nation’s 10,643 residents.
• The Falepili Union treaty, finalised in 2024, grants adult Tuvalu citizens access to 280 Australian residency visas annually in response to rising sea levels.
• Successful visa applicants will receive permanent residency rights including work and study privileges alongside Medicare, the National Disability Insurance Scheme and family tax benefits.
• Under the pact, Australia is legally bound to defend Tuvalu against natural disasters, health pandemics and military aggression and must mutually approve any other security agreements.
• Lottery results are due by the end of July, with the first migrants expected to relocate to Australia before the close of 2025.