Papua New Guinea · Skilled Worker Visa

Restricted Employment Visa

Official name Restricted Employment Visa (PNG, specialist skilled workers)

By António Mira, Founder · Member, Arab-Portuguese Chamber of Commerce & Industry (CCIAP) & Portuguese-Saudi Business Council (PSBC)
Compiled from official sources · pending independent re-check · Last checked 2026-06-08 · Our methodology
5.5/10 diff
Challenging

For specialist skilled workers. Quote: 'This visa is for specialist skilled workers.' Subject to PNG's reservation syste…

Min income
Processing
14+ days
Path to PR
No
Job offer
Required
Direct answer

For specialist skilled workers. Quote: 'This visa is for specialist skilled workers.' Subject to PNG's reservation system: managerial/professional/highly-skilled jobs open to non-citizens; certain occupations must be advertised in local press first; unqualified jobs reserved for citizens.

At a Glance

Visa Duration
12 months
Processing Time
14+ days
Min Income
Path to PR
No
Difficulty
5/10 — Challenging

Eligibility Requirements

RequirementDetails
Age Range18–65
Job Offer RequiredYes
Sponsorship RequiredYes
Health Insurance RequiredNo

Family & Rights

RightDetails
Path to Permanent ResidencyNo

Related Pathways

Cost of Living

Port Moresby
Single (monthly)€1,680
Family (monthly)€3,800
Rent 1BR (center)€800
Groceries€350
Transport pass€50

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Restricted Employment Visa (PNG, specialist skilled workers)?

For specialist skilled workers. Quote: 'This visa is for specialist skilled workers.' Subject to PNG's reservation system: managerial/professional/highly-skilled jobs open to non-citizens; certain occupations must be advertised in local press first; unqualified jobs reserved for citizens.

Can the Restricted Employment Visa (PNG, specialist skilled workers) lead to permanent residency?

No — this is a temporary pathway and does not itself lead to permanent residence. Holders often switch to a different route to pursue settlement.

Are there alternative pathways to Papua New Guinea?

Yes. Papua New Guinea offers 4 other immigration pathways. Compare all options on our Papua New Guinea country page.

What is the cost of living in Papua New Guinea?

Monthly costs for a single person in city center: Port Moresby: €1,680/mo. These include rent, groceries, transport, and utilities.

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Official source

Requirements on this page are based on this official/primary source:

Data last verified: 2026-06-08 · See our methodology

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