With a unique balance between unspoiled volcanic landscapes, vibrant local cultures, and all the benefits of a powerful passport, citizenship by investment in Vanuatu might be one of the smartest things you can do to achieve global mobility.

Invest in this tropical paradise where a welcoming local culture and unspoiled natural beauty await you, along with an excellent cost of living and an attractive tax regime. 

What’s not to love?

Stay with us as we unpack everything you need to know about Vanuatu’s citizenship by investment program.

*Disclaimer: All amounts quoted in this article were accurate at the time of publication and may have shifted since.

What is Citizenship By Investment and How Can You Obtain It in Vanuatu?

Citizenship by investment involves making a significant financial contribution in exchange for obtaining Vanuatu citizenship, typically through property investment or government bonds.

What is Citizenship By Investment?

Citizenship By Investment (CBI) is a legal process that allows individuals to acquire citizenship in a foreign country by making a defined financial investment or contribution.

In return, applicants gain the rights and privileges associated with citizenship, such as the ability to live, work, and travel in that country.

What is Vanuatu Citizenship By Investment?

Vanuatu Citizenship By Investment refers to the process of acquiring citizenship in the Republic of Vanuatu through making a specified financial investment.

Vanuatu's CBI program may offer various investment options, which can include contributions to the National Development Fund or investments in approved real estate projects.

Successful completion of the investment requirements, in addition to meeting other program criteria, may lead to the grant of Vanuatu citizenship, allowing investors to enjoy the rights and benefits associated with being a citizen of Vanuatu.

Prospective investors should carefully review the specific eligibility criteria, investment options, and other details of the CBI program before considering citizenship by investment in Vanuatu.

How Can I Obtain Vanuatu Citizenship Through Investment?

To obtain Vanuatu citizenship through investment, you can apply for the Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment Program.

This program allows foreign individuals to obtain Vanuatu citizenship by making a non-refundable donation to the Vanuatu Development Support Program.

The donation amount varies depending on the number of family members included in the application.

Once the donation is made, a thorough due diligence process is conducted to ensure eligibility.

The process typically takes around 1-2 months, and upon approval, you and your family will be granted Vanuatu citizenship, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of being a citizen of this beautiful Pacific island nation.

Another way to obtain Vanuatu citizenship through investment is by purchasing a property in Vanuatu.

The Vanuatu Investment Promotion Authority offers a program called the Vanuatu Real Estate Option.

Under this program, foreign individuals can invest in designated real estate projects in Vanuatu and become eligible for citizenship.

The minimum investment amount varies depending on the location and type of property.

This option allows you to not only obtain Vanuatu citizenship but also invest in the country's growing real estate market.

Through these investment options, you can secure Vanuatu citizenship and explore the opportunities and benefits that come with being a citizen of this tropical paradise.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment?

Vanuatu citizenship by investment offers key benefits such as visa-free travel to numerous countries, but involves financial risk and a considerable capital requirement.

What Benefits Does Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment Offer?

The benefits of obtaining citizenship by investment in Vanuatu range from the promise of an incredible lifestyle to the financial advantages of investing in this archipelago nation situated east of Australia in the South Pacific Ocean. 

Here are the 3 main benefits:

How Powerful Is the Passport With Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment?

A Vanuatu passport grants its holder visa-free access to more than 100 countries, including the EU, the UK, Singapore, and the Schengen region.

As a Vanuatu passport holder, you can also enjoy the following privileges:

• You can stay in Schengen states without a visa for up to 90 days in a 180-day period. 
• You can stay in the UK without a visa for up to 6 months per year.

What Tax Advantages Come With Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment?

Citizens of Vanuatu enjoy a favorable tax regime.

Vanuatu doesn’t levy income tax, wealth tax, or inheritance tax, allowing you to retain more of your hard-earned wealth.

How Does Quality of Life Improve With Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment?

In addition to the idyllic setting created by Vanuatu’s pristine beaches, beautiful rainforests, and incredible coral reefs, Vanuatu presents a host of reasons to invest in citizenship.

In our expert opinion, the factors that contribute to the high standard of living in Vanuatu include: 

• Modern infrastructure and services
• A low crime rate
• Close community bonds

What Are the Limitations of Obtaining Citizenship by Investment in Vanuatu?

The limitations of citizenship by investment in Vanuatu mainly comprise criticism regarding its due diligence processes. 

While citizenship by investment in Vanuatu presents attractive advantages, Vanuatu’s CBI program isn’t perfect. 

It’s important that you consider these 2 main limitations:

What Are the Costs Associated With Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment?

Most citizenship by investment programs are geared toward high-net-worth individuals. 

Although the investment required by Vanuatu is one of the more affordable currently available, the minimum investment needed for Vanuatu citizenship can be significant and might not be feasible for everyone.

It’s important that you have a good handle on the state of your personal and business finances before investing in a second citizenship.

What Does the Due Diligence Process Involve for Vanuatu Citizenship?

Vanuatu’s citizenship by investment program has received some criticism from international commentators in recent years, involving concerns surrounding insufficient due diligence on CBI applicants and the CBI process.

For example

In 2020, Vanuatu’s government came under scrutiny for allegedly selling passports to people charged with fraud or under international sanctions. This has put its visa-free access to EU countries at significant risk.¹

Vanuatu has responded to these concerns by stating that it has significantly improved its due diligence processes. 

What Are the Criteria and Investment Options for Citizenship in Vanuatu?

To qualify for Vanuatu citizenship, applicants must meet specific criteria and choose from investment options like real estate purchases or contributions to government funds.

Which Investment Types Qualify for Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment?

The investment types that qualify for the program include the Vanuatu Development Support Program (DSP) and real estate investment. 

When considering citizenship by investment in Vanuatu, it's important to understand what these options involve. 

Here’s our team’s rundown of the Vanuatu CBI investment routes:

How Does the Vanuatu Development Support Program Donation Facilitate Citizenship?

One qualifying investment option is to make a non-refundable contribution to the Vanuatu Development Support Program (DSP). 

The specific contribution amount is determined by the Vanuatu Citizenship Commission and is typically used to support various development initiatives in the country.

Currently, the minimum investment under this option is US$130,000. 

How Does Real Estate Investment Contribute to Vanuatu Citizenship?

Another citizenship by investment option is to invest in designated real estate in Vanuatu. 

By purchasing approved properties, applicants can fulfill the investment requirement for Vanuatu citizenship. 

What’s more

A real estate investment can offer additional benefits, such as potential rental income or capital appreciation.

Currently, the minimum investment required under this option is US$200,000.

What Are the Eligibility Requirements for Citizenship by Investment in Vanuatu?

The eligibility requirements for citizenship by investment in Vanuatu range from the minimum required investment to a clean criminal record. 

To obtain citizenship by investment in Vanuatu, you’ll need to comply with all of the stated eligibility requirements.

We’ve spelled them out for you below.

What Level of Financial Investment Is Required for Vanuatu Citizenship?

As we’ve detailed in the section above, to apply for the Vanuatu citizenship by investment program, you’ll need to invest a minimum of US$130,000 into its Development Support Program (DSP) or US$200,000 in government-approved real estate.

What Proof of Bank Balance Is Needed for Vanuatu Citizenship?

Vanuatu citizenship by investment applicants must be able to prove an available bank balance of at least US$250,000.

How to Prove Funds Were Lawfully Obtained for Vanuatu Citizenship?

It’s imperative that the funds you use to apply for citizenship by investment in Vanuatu are obtained through legal means. 

Applicants must provide clear evidence and documentation to demonstrate the lawful origin of their investment funds.

Is a Criminal Record Check Necessary for Vanuatu Citizenship?

Applicants for Vanuatu’s CBI program must have a clean criminal record.

Background checks will be conducted to ensure compliance with this requirement.

Are There Health Requirements for Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment?

Citizenship by investment applicants should be in good health and free from any contagious or communicable diseases that could pose a threat to public health in Vanuatu. 

A medical examination may be required to assess the applicant's health condition.

What Does Due Diligence Clearance Involve for Vanuatu Citizenship?

As part of the upgraded Vanuatu application process, you and your family members above a certain age must undergo a thorough due diligence investigation. 

An authorized agency conducts this to verify your background and reputation and ensure they meet the integrity standards set by the Vanuatu government.

What Are the Eligibility Requirements for Family Members in Vanuatu Citizenship?

The Vanuatu citizenship by investment program extends eligibility to family members of the main applicant, including the spouse, children, and sometimes dependent parents or grandparents. 

Each family member must meet the specific requirements and may incur additional costs.

What’s the Full Application Process for Citizenship by Investment in Vanuatu?

The application process for citizenship by investment in Vanuatu isn’t complicated, but it’s crucial that you understand it if you’re aiming for a seamless and efficient application experience. 

Our seasoned team has done the groundwork for you. 

What Does a Step-by-Step Guide Through the Process Look Like?

The process includes submitting necessary documents, making the required investment, undergoing due diligence checks, and awaiting official approval from the Vanuatu government.

Step 1: How to Get Pre-Approved for Vanuatu Citizenship?

The first step in your Vanuatu citizenship by investment application will involve receiving pre-approval.

This entails submitting the main forms and supporting documents, receiving police clearance, and paying a US$5,000 non-refundable fee for administrative processing. 

Step 2: How to Apply for Vanuatu Citizenship?

If you receive pre-approval, you can apply for citizenship by investment in Vanuatu.

This requires you to assemble all relevant documentation and make the full capital investment. 

If your documentation is found to be complete and true, your application will most likely be approved within 30 to 60 days.

Step 3: Taking the Oath for Vanuatu Citizenship – What to Expect?

Taking the oath is a mandatory prerequisite to receiving your Vanuatu citizenship. 

You can do this in 2 ways:

• Travel to Vanuatu and take the oath in front of the Commissioner.
• Fly 2 Vanuatu government officials to your location and take the oath in front of them. 

Upon completing your oath, you’ll receive your naturalization certificate.

What Documentation Is Required for Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment?

As part of your citizenship by investment application, you’ll be required to submit various supporting documents.

Some of the documents you’ll be required to submit include the following:

• Your completed citizenship by investment application form
• Proof of investment
• Personal identification documents
• Birth certificate
• Marriage or divorce certificates (if applicable)
• Police clearance certificate
• Medical health certificate
• Passport-sized photograph copies
• Proof of lawful source of funds 
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) 

What Costs Are Involved in Citizenship by Investment in Vanuatu?

The costs associated with citizenship by investment in Vanuatu extend beyond the initial investment amount. 

Understanding these will help you budget effectively for this significant step in your life. 

Here's our overview of the various expenses involved:

How Much Investment Is Required for Vanuatu Citizenship?

The primary cost of citizenship by investment is the required investment amount, which can vary depending on the chosen investment option. 

In this case, it’ll be either US$130,000 to the DSP, or US$200,000 in Vanuatu real estate.

What Are the Application Fees for Vanuatu Citizenship?

Applicants are required to pay application fees to the Vanuatu Citizenship Commission. 

These fees cover the processing and evaluation of the application.

How Much Are the Due Diligence Fees for Vanuatu Citizenship?

Due diligence fees are charged for the thorough background checks conducted on applicants and their family members. 

These fees cover the cost of verifying the integrity and credibility of CBI applicants.

What Legal Fees Are Incurred During the Vanuatu Citizenship Process?

We strongly advise that you engage the services of a legal professional to help you navigate your citizenship by investment application process smoothly. 

Are There Travel Fees Involved in Obtaining Vanuatu Citizenship?

In addition to the general travel costs associated with a potential move to Vanuatu, you’ll need to budget for the travel costs associated with taking the oath.

If you travel to Vanuatu to take the oath, you’ll need to cover the travel costs of that trip for yourself and your family.

If, on the other hand, you opt to fly 2 officials to wherever you are to witness you taking the oath, you’ll need to pay for their flight costs and accommodation. 

What Are the Fees for Document Notarization and Authentication?

Some documents may require notarization or authentication, which incurs additional fees. 

These fees cover the verification and certification of documents by authorized entities.

What Are the Costs for Medical Examinations for Vanuatu Citizenship?

Applicants must undergo a medical examination to meet the health requirements. 

Medical examination fees cover the examination cost and any required medical tests.

How Much Are the Passport Issuance Fees for Vanuatu Citizenship?

Once your citizenship is approved, there will be fees associated with the issuance of your Vanuatu passport. 

These fees cover the production and delivery of the passport.

What’s the Processing Time for Citizenship by Investment Applications in Vanuatu?

The processing time of citizenship by investment applications in Vanuatu is known to be one of the quickest of all CBI programs. 

Assuming your documentation is in order and you’ve paid all necessary fees, the average processing time for a Vanuatu citizenship by investment application is typically around 30 to 60 days.² 

This duration includes the evaluation of your application, due diligence checks, and the overall review process by the Vanuatu Citizenship Commission.

Does Vanuatu Allow Dual Citizenship?

Yes, Vanuatu allows dual citizenship. 

Individuals who obtain Vanuatu citizenship through its CBI program can retain their existing citizenship and enjoy all the benefits of dual citizenship. 

This flexibility enables individuals to expand their global opportunities and maintain their connections with their home country.

Common Questions

In Conclusion

Citizenship by investment in Vanuatu offers a range of compelling advantages for individuals seeking additional citizenship. 

The program's fast processing times, tax advantages, and dual citizenship allowance make citizenship in this beautiful island nation very attractive indeed. 

Whether you're looking for personal, financial, or lifestyle benefits, capitalizing on the possibilities of citizenship by investment in Vanuatu can create a pathway to an exceptional future.

Has this article made you wonder about citizenship by investment in other countries? 

Check out our extensive library of articles for more information.