Mark Damsgaard
Founder of Global Residence Index
Last updated: April 19, 2024
This guide on the Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment program hopes to assist readers and potential investors to learn more about Vanuatu, its passport, the investment criteria, eligibility, and process.
One of the most essential elements of the investment migration industry is proper case management and post-approval services for clients. To learn how we, with our local team in Vanuatu, can help you, please feel free to get in touch with us for an initial consultation.
The first iteration of the Program was the Capital Investment Immigration Plan (CIIP), formed in 2012 and implemented in 2014. Honorary citizenship was given to investors, slightly different from full citizenship under the Vanuatu Development Support Programme (VDSP). It did not allow these citizens to vote or take public office.
There have since been several changes to the programs allowing citizenship to foreign investors. The Government is opening up investment opportunities to investors with the ability to redeem some or all of their capital investment.
In 2021, the parliament passed new amendments to the Citizenship Act, officially adding the Real Estate Option (REO) for citizenship by investment. Citizenship under the Real Estate Option Program under Section 13F of the Citizenship Act [Cap 112].
Vanuatu has launched a third investment option by Issuing Government Bonds Option (IGBO). Order NO. 44 from 2023 was published in the Republic of Vanuatu Official Gazette on March 27 this year. The Order makes amendments to the Vanuatu Citizenship Act.
The transformation of the investment options shows that the Government is adapting to an incredibly competitive investment migration market.
The one-time contribution or donation to the Vanuatu Development Support Programme (VDSP) for the Vanuatu Government is as follows:
The Citizenship by Investment program of Vanuatu follows an eight-step process:
Seeking expert guidance for the Vanuatu program?
Navigating through immigration programs, such as Vanuatu’s, can be complex and overwhelming, regardless of the country or program you’re interested in. If you’re struggling to find clear, accurate information, you’re not alone. Our team is here to offer you clarity and reliable advice across a wide range of immigration programs, including Vanuatu.
By scheduling a consultation, you’ll receive personalized guidance tailored to your unique situation. We’re dedicated to helping you understand the details of the Vanuatu citizenship program and various other immigration programs, making them more straightforward so you can proceed with confidence.
Here is how we can help you:
Other than completing the financial transaction, the Vanuatu citizenship program has multiple other criteria to be fulfilled.
Scrutiny and background checks on investors have undergone multiple changes in the due diligence process. The improvements align with trying to improve relations with the European Council.
Agents authorized by the unit conduct initial high-level due diligence by understanding the background of the applicants, the source of funds, and the criminal background. All initial documents are checked against international databases by a certified compliance anti-money laundering officer.
Agents submit applications, including valid passports, police or judicial clearance, Curriculum Vitae (CV), and any such requested documents are then submitted to the FIU, where the due diligence process is completed, usually in 3-8 working days.
The process for citizenship is one of the fastest in the industry. Applicants with documentation can obtain their passports within one month of deciding to invest in Vanuatu.
The passport currently is ranked in the top one hundred in the world, with visa-free access to 103 countries and territories. There has been some loss in demand for the citizenship program since the European Council removed visa-free access to the Schengen area. However, recovery plans are in motion, and there is the possibility to retain visa-free access in the future.
Vanuatu’s passport strength has reduced considerably since losing visa-free travel to Europe’s Schengen area. However, the passport still provides entry to Hong Kong, Singapore, Russia and many other countries in Asia, Latin America, and Africa.
Apart from adding another passport to the portfolio, there are several other benefits to citizenship. As a member of the Commonwealth, Vanuatu citizens can obtain long-term visitor visas in other Commonwealth countries such as Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Citizens can apply for a B1/B2 tourist visa, which can be issued for five years. Long-term tourist visas in these first-world countries can allow for medical treatments and conduct short-term business or academic courses.
Vanuatu is known for its favourable tax policies. Investors can establish an International Business Company (ICB) and tax residence. As long as the company does not earn income from within Vanuatu, there are significant tax advantages. The company can be tax-exempt on profits, and its shareholders can also enjoy tax-free profits, personal income, capital gains, inheritance, or donations. Applicants who create a tax presence in Vanuatu can enjoy the twenty-year benefit.
The path to citizenship is very straightforward, without a language requirement.
Ultimately, the Vanuatu citizenship by investment program is a great Plan B option for investors looking to increase their passport portfolio. Living in Vanuatu should also be a consideration for the investors.
With over eighty beaches and crystal clear waters, the island paradise is absolutely worth considering for citizenship investors looking to obtain a second passport.
Yes. The donation cost is currently $45,000 for a spouse and $15,000 for a child.
The passport is valid for ten years from the date of issue. After that, it must be renewed which can be done remotely. However, your citizenship is, of course, permanent.
No. Vanuatu recognizes dual citizenship, and investors can hold multiple citizenships.
Our authorized agent will conduct the preliminary due diligence before moving forward with the application in Vanuatu. This initial step ensures that you are only onboarded as a client if you are eligible for citizenship.
Importantly, the donation is only to be made after approval of your citizenship application.
Need help?
Navigating through golden visa & citizenship by investment programs can be complex and overwhelming, regardless of the country or program you’re interested in. If you’re struggling to find clear, accurate information, you’re not alone. Our team is here to offer you clarity and reliable advice across a wide range of immigration programs.
By scheduling a consultation, you’ll receive personalized guidance tailored to your unique situation. We’re dedicated to helping you understand the details of various immigration programs, making them more straightforward so you can proceed with confidence.
During our call, we will:
Here is what to expect from a call with our advisory team:
We’ll answer your questions about the program and the application process, providing you with the clarity you need.
We’ll break down each stage of the immigration process, ensuring you know exactly what to expect.
We’ll help you determine if the chosen program is the right fit for you or suggest alternatives that may better align with your goals.
Gain access to our network of recommended local lawyers, as well as providers of eligible investment options.
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