More than one-third of the population of Tuvalu, known as the sinking island nation, has applied for a new Australian visa offering permanent residency to people affected by climate change.
The Falepili Mobility Pathway, a special migration program established under the Australia–Tuvalu Falepili Union Treaty, will grant up to 280 visas annually. Recipients of the program can live, work, and study in Australia, with full access to public services.
Since the program opened on June 16, more than 4,000 people from Tuvalu have entered the ballot, CNN reported.
Tuvalu, home to about 10,000 people, is made up of nine low-lying atolls in the South Pacific. The country’s highest point is just six meters above sea level.
Prime Minister Feleti Teo told the United Nations Oceans Conference that internal relocation is not possible due to the island’s flat terrain. He warned that by 2050, half of Tuvalu could face regular flooding, increasing to 90% by the end of the century.
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong described the visa as enabling “mobility with dignity.” The Australian government emphasized the scheme’s role in providing choices rather than forcing relocation.
According to the Australian government, recipients of the visas will be selected through a random draw, with the first group expected to relocate by January 2026.
