Land of a Thousand Tribes & Untouched Reefs
Permanent residency is possible after 8+ years of continuous legal residence with a clean record. Applications go through the National Executive Council (cabinet level). It is rarely granted and most long-term expats remain on renewable work permits. Citizenship by naturalisation requires 8 years of residence and renunciation of other citizenship — PNG does not allow dual nationality.
Citizens of several countries (including Australia, New Zealand, UK, US, and most Pacific Island nations) can obtain a 60-day tourist visa on arrival at Jacksons International Airport in Port Moresby. A return ticket and proof of accommodation are required. This cannot be converted to a work permit — you must leave and apply separately.
Foreigners cannot own freehold land in PNG — all land is either customary land (owned by tribal groups under traditional law, covering ~97% of PNG) or state land on leasehold. Foreigners can hold state leases (typically 99 years) for residential or commercial property, but the process is complex, slow, and requires government approval. Most expats rent on company-provided contracts.
In Lae (PNG's second city), housing options are similar to Port Moresby but more limited and often older. In regional towns (Mount Hagen, Goroka, Madang, Wewak), expat-standard housing is scarce and typically only available through employer compounds. Mining sites (Lihir, Porgera, Ok Tedi) provide on-site camp accommodation with meals, laundry, and recreation facilities included.