Citizenship by Investment in Vanuatu
- Fast route to second citizenship
- Cost-effective programme
- Visa-free travel
Minimum Investment Amount
$130,000
Processing Time
1-2 months
Key Residency Benefit
Quick route to second citizenship
Why is Vanuatu a popular investment location?
Vanuatu is a country made up of a string of 13 main islands and several smaller islands in the South Pacific Ocean.
Vanuatu’s connectivity, well-developed infrastructure and tax system make it an ideal location for businesses to thrive. There is also plenty to see and do on the island.
The country has a rich and varied culture that mixes local traditions with foreign influence. The island nation is awash with breathtaking landscapes, from mountain ranges and tropical rainforests to pristine white sand beaches.
Vanuatu is also home to the world’s only underwater Post Office, allowing divers and snorkellers to send special waterproof postcards.
About the Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment programme
Also referred to as the Vanuatu Development Support Program (DSP), the Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment scheme was launched in 2017 by the government.
The programme offers one of the quickest and most straightforward routes to second citizenship in the world.
Applicants can choose from two investment options, starting at $130,000, and passports can take as little as one month to receive. The whole process can be completed remotely, meaning there is no need to visit Vanuatu at any point.
Once approved, investors gain access to a wide array of benefits. These include favourable tax treatment and greater global mobility with visa-free access to almost 100 countries, including Singapore and Hong Kong.
What are the Benefits of Citizenship by Investment in Vanuatu?
Visa-free travel to nearly 100 countries
Favourable tax system
Fast and straightforward process
Citizenship for the entire family
No minimum stay requirements
No test or interview process
How to obtain Citizenship by Investment in Vanuatu
Non-refundable contribution
Make a non-refundable contribution to the National Development Fund (NDF). The government fund is used to develop Vanuatu’s economy as well as provide other financial support for the country.
There is an additional $15,000 for each family member starting from the fifth. Due diligence fees also apply.
The minimum donation required varies depending on the number of applicants:
- $130,000 for a single applicant
- $150,000 for a married couple
- $165,000 for a married couple and one child
- $180,000 for a married couple and two children
Key Benefit of Citizenship by Investment in Vanuatu
The Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment Programme offers a fast-track solution for obtaining second citizenship.
Investors can become citizens and receive their passports in 1-2 months on average, making the programme one of the fastest in the world. As well as being quick, the programme offers a convenient process for applicants.
There are no tests or interviews, and the whole process can be completed remotely. The oath-taking ceremony required to complete the process can also take place in a country of the investors’ choosing.
Successful applicants enjoy a wide array of benefits. These include greater global mobility and access to a favourable tax system.
Frequently asked questions
To be eligible for the programme and qualify for Vanuatu citizenship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be over the age of 18
- Be below 65 at the time the application is submitted
- Provide proof of funds of no less than $250,000
- Have a clean criminal record
- Must not be from a black-listed country
Vanuatu recognises dual nationality. However, individuals must register their status with the Vanuatu Citizenship Commission.
Vanuatu has no income tax, estate or capital gains tax. There is no tax on worldwide income and no tax to be paid on personal income. The country is also well known for having zero corporate tax.
Family members can be included in the application. Those eligible include:
- Spouse
- Dependent children
- Dependent children in education
- Dependent parents/grandparents of the main applicant
Depending on how many family members are added to the application, there is an additional cost.
Vanuatu Application Process
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Weeks 1-2:
Due diligence check takes place, the retainer is paid, and the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) reviews the application.
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Weeks 2-4:
The application is submitted to the Vanuatu Citizenship Commission for approval, and the donation is made.
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Weeks 5-6:
Naturalisation certificates and passports are issued.
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Weeks 1-2:Due diligence check takes place, the retainer is paid, and the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) reviews the application.
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Weeks 2-4:The application is submitted to the Vanuatu Citizenship Commission for approval, and the donation is made.
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Weeks 5-6:Naturalisation certificates and passports are issued.
Which programme is right for you?
| Citizenship or Residency Programme? | Citizenship or Residency Programme?Citizenship | ||
| Minimum Investment Amount | Minimum Investment Amount$130,000 | ||
| Minimum Stay Requirement | Minimum Stay RequirementNo | ||
| Initial Permit Duration | Initial Permit DurationN/A | ||
| Time to Residence | Time to ResidenceN/A | ||
| Time to Citizenship | Time to Citizenship1-2 months | ||
| Family Inclusion? | Family Inclusion?Spouse, children under 25 and parents over 50 | ||
| Right to Work? | Right to Work?Yes | ||
| Type of Document Received | Type of Document Received?Certificate of citizenship and passport | ||
| No. of Visa-Free Countries with Passport? | No. of Visa-Free Countries with Passport?92 | ||