Vanuatu citizenship and passport by investments

The Vanuatu citizenship by investment programme has become one of the most sought-after instruments of international mobility among entrepreneurs, investors and owners of international businesses. Regulated by Vanuatu government agencies, including the Citizenship Office and the Department of Immigration and Passport Services, the programme functions as a formal mechanism for granting citizenship via an accelerated process, provided a specified contribution is made to a government fund.

The legal mechanism and regulatory elements of Vanuatu’s citizenship process are based on an administrative procedure whereby government agencies conduct comprehensive screening of applicants and make individual decisions on granting citizenship. This process includes mandatory identification of the applicant, verification of the source of funds, a reputational analysis and confirmation that there are no factors that could create image or legal risks for the state. Each application undergoes a thorough evaluation, including a review of financial documents, a check against international databases, an analysis of the applicant’s professional and personal profile, and an evaluation of their eligibility for the programme. The final decision takes the form of an administrative act issued by the Citizenship Commission. The Commission has the authority to approve candidates, reject applications and refer them for further review if any discrepancies or concerns about their credibility are identified. Once citizenship has been granted, the applicant is entitled to apply for a passport. The Department of Immigration and Passport Services handles this process, registering the application, verifying documents, confirming citizenship status and issuing a passport in the established format. The issuance of a passport marks the final stage of the legal process and is only possible upon receipt of a valid decision granting citizenship.

Investment amount required to obtain a Vanuatu passport

The minimum investment required under Vanuatu’s citizenship programme is US$130,000. This sum is deposited into a government fund and is non-refundable, which makes participation in the programme as transparent as possible in terms of financial obligations. Other options include placing at least US$250,000 in a savings account, as well as new investment opportunities offered from 2024 onwards, such as investing in private funds focused on cocoa or coconut oil production. These mechanisms provide the option of a partial return of approximately US$50,000 after five years. The application and processing time for citizenship remains one of the shortest among similar international programmes, ranging from one to four months. In most cases, a second passport is issued around two months after the documents have been submitted, making Vanuatu the fastest jurisdiction in the citizenship-by-investment sector. Furthermore, a Vanuatu passport provides visa-free or simplified entry to over 100 countries and territories.

Applicants are not required to pass language, history or cultural examinations as part of the application process. However, submitting biometric data is mandatory for passport issuance. This can be done either directly in Vanuatu or at Vanuatu’s missions abroad, including in Dubai, Hong Kong and Nouméa. This significantly simplifies the process for foreign investors.

Republic of Vanuatu

Conditions of participation and key criteria of the programme

The terms of participation in Vanuatu’s investment programme are designed to be accessible to international investors, while also meeting requirements for financial transparency and security. Participants are required to make a one-time contribution to a government fund, the amount of which is determined by the number of family members included and the status of the main applicant. This financial contribution is a one-off payment and is not subject to regular instalments. The government views this contribution as a form of economic support for the country’s development. The programme does not require actual residence in Vanuatu, either during the application process or after citizenship has been granted. This makes the programme particularly popular among entrepreneurs operating in multiple jurisdictions who require flexible travel. To participate, applicants must meet the criteria established by the government. Key requirements include providing proof of the legal origin of funds, demonstrating a clean criminal and visa record, and undergoing a comprehensive due diligence process. Applicants must also demonstrate their financial ability to pay the full contribution before a final decision is made by the competent authority. The procedure allows for the inclusion of family members — a spouse, minor children and, in some cases, adult dependants — subject to certain conditions. Applications are submitted through an authorised representative and processed via a streamlined administrative procedure. Thanks to a standardised process and established review timelines, decisions are made quickly, enabling applicants to plan for citizenship within a predictable timeframe.

The application process consists of several sequential stages, each aimed at confirming the applicant’s identity, sources of financial resources, and compliance with established government criteria. At the initial stage, a preliminary assessment of the candidate is conducted to determine their compliance with the basic programme requirements and to compile a comprehensive application package. Required documents include proof of identity and financial solvency, criminal record certificates from all countries of long-term residence, information on the legal origin of funds, and documents confirming family status. Once the application package has been submitted, authorised authorities conduct an initial administrative check to confirm the completeness and accuracy of the information provided. The final stage of the verification process is comprehensive due diligence — a detailed procedure for analysing the applicant’s reliability. This includes studying financial flows, verifying information in international databases, analysing business reputation and identifying any risks associated with the candidate’s past activities. This stage is crucial for making a decision, as government agencies pay particular attention to compliance with transparency and financial integrity standards. Once the check has been successfully completed, the applicant pays the established investment fee. Based on confirmed payment and the results of the due diligence check, the competent authority makes an administrative decision on granting citizenship. It is only after citizenship status has been granted that the applicant has the right to apply for a passport. The process is relatively short, as the passport service only conducts an identification check of the submitted documents based on already confirmed citizenship status.

Vanuatu Passport Programme Investment Structure

Vanuatu citizenship is obtained through a direct, non-refundable contribution to the National Development Fund, which is the only investment instrument provided by law. The required contribution amount is determined by the applicant’s family composition and includes the following thresholds:

• US$130,000 for an individual applicant;
• US$150,000 for a married couple;
• USD 15,000 for each additional family member (including minor children and parents) included in the application.

In addition to meeting the investment requirement, the applicant must cover the costs of conducting comprehensive due diligence and administration.

Benefits of Vanuatu citizenship for investors

The advantages of Vanuatu citizenship mean that the investment programme is one of the most attractive for entrepreneurs and investors involved in international economic activity. A Vanuatu passport allows its holder to travel to many countries without restrictions, which significantly simplifies business operations, negotiations, conferences and the management of international projects. This level of mobility is particularly valuable for individuals whose business interests span various regions of the world. Vanuatu’s favourable tax regime is another significant advantage. The country levies no income tax, capital gains tax or inheritance tax, enabling investors to plan their finances effectively and optimise their tax burden. Furthermore, the jurisdiction imposes no tax residency requirements upon citizenship, giving applicants the freedom to organise their lives and activities in different countries without being constrained by residency obligations. Vanuatu citizenship is granted for life and can be passed on by inheritance in accordance with national law. This makes the programme a long-term tool for ensuring legal stability and protecting family interests. The absence of residency obligations before or after receiving citizenship allows it to be used as a flexible tool for international positioning, making it suitable for individuals who do not intend to change their primary place of residence, but who seek a document that provides expanded travel and business opportunities.

Regulatory risks and programme features

The regulatory risks and specifics of Vanuatu’s citizenship by investment programme are primarily related to its dependence on international compliance standards and financial transparency requirements. As the programme provides citizenship to foreign applicants through an investment contribution, the Vanuatu government regularly reviews verification procedures, strengthens controls over the origin of funds and refines its comprehensive due diligence procedures. These adjustments are aimed at ensuring compliance with international requirements and maintaining the trust of international partners. Particular attention is paid to information exchange with countries that provide Vanuatu citizens with preferential visa regimes. Changes in immigration policy, increased security measures or additional requirements may affect the list of countries for which citizens can travel visa-free. Regulators closely monitor international recommendations and adapt national regulations to ensure the programme’s sustainability. Potential applicants should be aware that the global geopolitical and legal environment is constantly changing. Some jurisdictions may decide to revise visa requirements for Vanuatu passport holders pending independent assessments of the reliability of their citizenship application processes. Therefore, investors should consider not only the current benefits, but also the potential for future changes to the programme. The government is striving to anticipate such risks by strengthening control mechanisms and increasing transparency throughout the process. However, visa decisions remain the sole responsibility of foreign countries. This necessitates a balanced approach and professional advice for programme participants.

Visa requirements for Vanuatu passport holders

The practical significance of Vanuatu’s citizenship by investment programme lies in its ability to provide investors with a wide range of legal and economic benefits. Citizenship status enables the diversification of personal and corporate strategies, the creation of additional layers of legal protection and increased opportunities for international travel. For families, the programme is a valuable long-term planning tool, providing access to alternative citizenship for children and heirs. The effectiveness of the application process depends directly on the quality of the application. To achieve a successful outcome, it is essential to submit properly structured documentation, provide convincing proof of the source of funds, comply with all legal formalities and consider Vanuatu government requirements. A preliminary legal review is particularly important in allowing potential risks to be identified, discrepancies to be eliminated, and a document package to be compiled in accordance with current administrative standards. Thorough preparation increases the likelihood of a positive decision, minimises the risk of refusal and speeds up application processing at all stages, from initial screening to passport issuance. In an environment of heightened international scrutiny and strict due diligence procedures, qualified specialist support is essential for ensuring the security and predictability of the process. Professional consultants help applicants interact with government agencies, prepare documents accurately, provide the required information promptly, and ensure that deadlines are met.

Vanuatu citizenship and passport: legal nature, application stages and practical aspects of obtaining a citizen’s passport

Vanuatu citizenship and the subsequent acquisition of a citizen’s passport are formalised state processes regulated by agencies specialising in immigration policy, document issuance and the enforcement of national legislation. For investors, entrepreneurs and individuals seeking increased personal mobility, a Vanuatu passport is the final step in the citizenship process, providing the full range of rights afforded by the country’s laws.

Government bodies and regulatory structure

Citizenship matters are the responsibility of the Citizenship Commission and the relevant office. These bodies review applications, conduct due diligence, and make decisions on approval. Passport processing is managed by the Department of Immigration and Passport Services. This department is responsible for registering applications, verifying the required documentation, and issuing and delivering new passports. The system is structured so that citizenship and passport issuance are sequential but legally distinct procedures.

Grounds for obtaining citizenship and transitioning to passport registration

Vanuatu citizenship can be obtained through various means, including naturalisation, marriage, and investment programmes. In practice, the most popular method remains obtaining citizenship through financial participation in a government fund. Regardless of the basis, a passport can only be issued once official citizenship status has been granted and confirmed by a certificate.

Applicants must meet standard requirements regarding trustworthiness, have a clean criminal record and provide proof of the legal origin of their funds. Once the background check has been completed and a decision has been made to grant citizenship, applicants can apply for a passport.

Vanuatu passport application process

The passport application process is a separate administrative procedure involving several mandatory steps:

Collection and preparation of documents; submission of an application to the authorised division of the department; administrative verification of information; payment of the established fee; issuance of a passport by the competent authority.

Applications can be submitted either at the central office in Port Vila or at regional offices located in the provinces of Sanma, Penama and Tafea. This model ensures service accessibility for citizens residing throughout the country. Each office operates according to standardised procedures, which require mandatory identification of applicants and verification of submitted documents.

The following documents are required to obtain a Vanuatu passport:

• An identity card
• A birth certificate
• Proof of marital status (if available)
• A photograph in the established 3.5 x 4.5 cm format
•  A previous foreign document, if issued

For minors, written consent from parents or legal guardians is required.

For minors, written consent from parents or legal guardians is required. In some cases, a medical document confirming identification or specific circumstances related to the applicant’s personal data may be required.

If the applicant has changed their first or last name, they must provide documentary evidence of the reason for the change, such as a marriage or divorce certificate or a decision from the relevant authority.

Processing times and rates

The Vanuatu system provides for several categories of passport application processing:

• Standard procedure: up to 21 days
• Expedited processing: up to 10 days
• Emergency procedure: up to 3 days

Fees depend on the applicant’s age: documents for adults (18+) and children are processed at different rates. Passports are valid for five years and can be renewed for a similar period.

Key benefits of Vanuatu citizenship

The Vanuatu citizenship programme is one of the fastest ways to obtain a second passport internationally. The average application processing time is approximately two months, which is significantly faster than similar investment programmes in the Caribbean, where applications typically take six months or more. The process is designed to avoid excessive formal requirements: there are no language tests, interviews or other checks unrelated to the candidate’s financial and legal assessment. Another advantage is the opportunity to earn a return by investing in specialised funds, including coconut oil production projects. Such investments offer an estimated annual return of around five percent, with the prospect of a partial return of the capital after five years. A Vanuatu passport opens up a wide range of relocation opportunities. In many European Union countries, investors can apply for residency on general grounds, even if restrictions apply to citizens of their country of origin. For instance, applicants from Vanuatu are granted a five-year residence permit in Greece, facilitating long-term integration into the European jurisdiction. The family-friendly programme allows spouses, children under 25 and parents over 50 to be included in the application. Investors are not required to renounce their existing citizenship if their country of origin permits multiple citizenship. Vanuatu passport holders enjoy enhanced freedom of travel. They can travel visa-free to over 100 countries and territories, including major Asian hubs such as Hong Kong, Singapore and Malaysia. Vanuatu citizens also have access to a five-year B-1/B-2 tourist visa for the United States. This visa permits stays of up to 180 days per year, offering flexibility for business negotiations, medical treatment, short-term study programmes, and travel. Incorporating an international business company (IBC) is a valuable tax planning tool. These structures are exempt from corporate, income, capital gains, inheritance, and gift taxes for twenty years, instead being subject to a fixed annual fee of US$300. This makes Vanuatu an attractive jurisdiction for structuring international businesses.

An added benefit of Vanuatu citizenship is the creation of a personal ‘backup plan’. A second passport provides alternative access to a safe jurisdiction, the possibility of temporary or permanent residence abroad, and increased mobility in the event of political or economic instability in the investor’s home country.

Despite the steady development of citizenship programmes, visa authorities periodically update regulations related to due diligence, identification and verification of applicants’ data. International practice requires increased attention to migration transparency and the quality of due diligence, so applicants should be aware of potential adjustments to requirements. For investors applying for a passport through an investment programme, preparing documents in good time and complying with all formalities is crucial. Incomplete documentation or incorrect information may delay processing or result in an application being rejected.

The practical significance of the programme and professional support

A Vanuatu passport is an effective tool for individuals seeking a simple, legally sound way of obtaining a second passport, ensuring mobility and flexibility in international transactions. Success largely depends on properly preparing documents, strictly adhering to Vanuatu’s official requirements and writing a well-crafted application. Professional support can significantly streamline the process and minimise risks. The preparation stage involves data verification, adjusting forms, monitoring document validity, and coordinating with government agencies.

Vanuatu Citizenship and Passport: Investment Mechanisms, Legal Structure, and Application Features

Vanuatu has developed one of the most flexible and rapid citizenship-by-investment programmes, attracting investors, entrepreneurs and individuals seeking to enhance their international mobility. The government provides a clear citizenship process and a separate passport application process, opening access to a range of benefits including a lenient tax regime and freedom of movement across several countries.

Regulation and government agencies

The Citizenship Commission oversees the citizenship process, reviewing documents, assessing the applicant’s credibility, and making the final decision. The Department of Immigration and Passport Services is responsible for passport processing, handling application registration, identification, and the issuance and delivery of Vanuatu passports. Despite being temporarily suspended in 2025, the programme was fully reinstated and continues to operate in accordance with current government regulations.

Investment programmes: DSP and CIIP

Legislation provides for two investment mechanisms for obtaining citizenship:

The Development Support Programme (DSP) is a classic form of investment participation involving a non-repayable contribution to a state fund. For an individual applicant, the donation amount is approximately $130,000, with additional contributions required for family members.

The Capital Investment Immigration Plan (CIIP) is a combined option which includes a donation of around $105,000 and a refundable investment contribution of around $50,000. The total cost of participation is approximately $135,000 per applicant, with the refundable portion being invested for a specified period.

Both programmes require mandatory fees to cover the costs of verifying sources of funds, conducting due diligence and administering the application.

The procedure for obtaining citizenship and a passport

The procedure for obtaining citizenship and a passport includes several sequential stages:

1. First, documentation must be prepared, including identification documents, proof of family status, information on the source of funds, and certificates confirming that the applicant has no criminal record.
2. An authorised representative submits the application and has the right to interact with Vanuatu government agencies.
3. Due diligence includes analysing sources of capital, examining the candidate’s biography and verifying the applicant against international databases.
4. Initially, preliminary approval is provided, after which the investor makes the required payments.
5. Taking the oath can be carried out either in person or remotely through an approved representative.
6. Passport processing: After citizenship has been granted, the applicant submits documents for a passport. This takes approximately 60–90 days. The passport is issued for a set period depending on the applicant’s age.

Passport processing and document requirements

To obtain a Vanuatu passport, you must provide the following documents:

• Identity card and proof of citizenship
• Birth certificate
• Photographs in the required format
• Previous foreign document (if previously issued)
• Parental consent – for applicants under 18 years of age
• Documents confirming any previous name or surname changes

Applications can be submitted at the central office in Port Vila or at regional offices in the provinces of Sanma, Penama and Tafea, making the process accessible to all citizens.

There are various processing options available—standard, expedited and urgent—which vary in cost and processing time. Expedited procedures allow you to obtain a passport within a few days, provided the correct documents are submitted.

Benefits of a Vanuatu passport

Vanuatu’s passport is of interest to entrepreneurs and investors due to the following advantages:

• The ability to travel visa-free, with electronic authorisation or a visa on arrival to a significant number of countries
• Access to a jurisdiction with no income, inheritance or capital gains tax
• Permission to hold dual citizenship, allowing you to keep your native passport without violating Vanuatu law
• Fast processing times and transparent administrative procedures

Thanks to its combination of tax flexibility and international mobility, the passport is widely used as a strategic planning tool for personal and corporate interests.

Limitations and regulatory features

While Vanuatu’s passport remains attractive in terms of cost and speed, investors should consider several factors. Visa-free travel to the Schengen Area will end in 2024, which will reduce the passport’s validity for travel within Europe. At the same time, the programme has strengthened due diligence requirements, focusing on the applicant’s sources of capital and previous residence.

Government agencies are continuing to improve their control system, which makes the process more transparent, but requires careful preparation of the documentation package.

Practical recommendations for applicants

To successfully complete the procedure, it is recommended that they:

• Gather documents in advance, including financial evidence and certificates of good conduct
• Check that the asset ownership structure complies with international requirements
• Consider timeframes and plan the application in accordance with personal and business circumstances
• Engage competent consultants to ensure the application is completed correctly and passes the checks

Proper support can significantly reduce the risk of delays or failures, ensuring predictable results.

Regulated United Europe offers professional support for the Vanuatu citizenship application process, starting from €4,500.

The legal team provides comprehensive support throughout the entire application process, including applicant screening, preparation of a complete document package, interaction with Vanuatu government agencies, and monitoring of application processing times. This service includes personalised support, an explanation of programme requirements, coordination of government fee and investment payments, and arrangements for biometrics at one of the international offices authorised to accept data for passport issuance.

This format minimises the risks associated with documentary inaccuracies or non-compliance with programme requirements and ensures the most predictable and convenient citizenship process.

According to publicly available data from government and industry bodies, Vanuatu’s citizenship-by-investment programme has demonstrated steady growth in recent years. Between 2015 and 2021, approximately 13,500 passports were issued under the investment scheme. This includes both individual applications and family packages.

According to separate public reports for 2020, approximately 2,200 passports were issued, a significant proportion of which – around 1,200 – were received by citizens of the People’s Republic of China. Active participation by applicants from countries in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Africa and Eastern Europe has also been noted over the years.

The most notable nationalities participating in the programme are Chinese, Russian, Nigerian, Lebanese, Syrian, Turkish and Indian citizens. However, Vanuatu officials do not publish detailed statistics by applicant country, so the data may vary depending on the period and source.