Home Affairs and Immigration Minister Pio Tikoduadua says his ministry issues anywhere between 10,573 and 18,468 immigration permits to foreigners every year.
“Fiji is a hub among the Pacific islands for work, education and training, and a major tourist destination from around the globe,” Mr Tikoduadua said in Parliament on Thursday in response to a question from Opposition MP Viliame Naupoto on emigration and immigration trends.
“Although modest in number, contemporary immigration has played a crucial role in Fiji filling gaps in specialist positions, strengthening public services including medical services, stimulating foreign investment and providing low-cost labour.
“The number of permits issued has fluctuated significantly during the year 2018 and 2021 between 10,573 and 18,468 annually.
“Over the course of the four years, most permits were issued or extensions to visitors permit, which is around 14,956.
“Students were the largest category with 11,822 permits issued between 2018 and 2021.
“This was followed by long-term work permits and exemption status effectively.”
