We have Important questions answered with Vanuatu citizenship by investment (economic citizenship) program.
1. Is there a preliminary comprehensive legal check?
Yes. The Government of Vanuatu conducts a comprehensive due diligence check on the main applicant and all adult family members included in the application to confirm eligibility.
2. Is the FIU due diligence fee required for the whole family?
Yes. The investor must pay a due diligence fee to the Vanuatu Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU).
- The fee is approximately USD 5,000 – USD 5,500, depending on the chosen investment option.
- This fee typically covers a family of up to four members.
- Additional fees apply for each extra dependent.
3. Is there a requirement to show proof of funds or assets of at least USD 250,000?
Yes. Applicants must provide proof of funds or assets totaling at least USD 250,000 as part of the application process.
For the Real Estate Option (REO):
- The applicant must be registered on the title of a lot in a Vanuatu Government Approved Project.
- The applicant must enter into an investment agreement.
- The REO Project Fee includes the value of the investment required to qualify for citizenship.
- Applicants must also provide bank statements showing sufficient funds to meet the REO program fee requirements.
4. Is it true that Vanuatu is a tax haven and offers tax benefits only if the investor resides there for 183 days per year?
Yes and No.
Vanuatu has no income tax, wealth tax, inheritance tax, or gift tax.
However:
- To be considered a tax resident of Vanuatu, an individual typically must spend at least 183 days per year in the country.
- A Vanuatu citizen may nominate Vanuatu as their primary tax residence and potentially pay no tax on global income, provided they are not considered a tax resident of another country.
Important considerations:
- Many countries treat individuals as tax residents if they spend 183 days or more in a 12-month period there.
- Some countries, such as the United States, tax citizens on worldwide income regardless of residence.
- Tax residency rules are complex, and specialist tax advice is recommended.
5. Is it true that an International Business Company (IBC) registered in Vanuatu is exempt from taxes for 20 years and pays only an annual fee?
Yes.
An International Business Company (IBC) registered in Vanuatu:
- Is generally exempt from corporate taxes for 20 years
- Pays an annual government fee of approximately USD 300 – USD 1,000, depending on the company type.
6. Is it correct that citizens can purchase an existing company and pay 0% corporate and personal income tax?
Yes.
Vanuatu citizens may benefit from the country’s tax-friendly regime, which includes:
- 0% corporate income tax
- 0% personal income tax
7. Are the stated processing times accurate (up to 6 weeks)?
Yes.
- Passports can sometimes be issued within a few weeks after the applicant passes the FIU due diligence check.
- The officially communicated processing timeline is up to 6 weeks, allowing time for document verification and administrative procedures.
- The FIU due diligence check typically takes 7–10 days, but may take up to 15 days.
8. Is there a citizenship oath ceremony, and can it be conducted remotely?
Yes.
The citizenship oath ceremony can be conducted:
- In Vanuatu, or
- Remotely, depending on the applicant’s preference.
9. Do you assist with opening a local bank account and provide real estate advice?
Yes.
Applicants may receive assistance with:
- Opening a bank account in Vanuatu
- Consultation on real estate investments
10. Can family members be included in the application?
Yes.
The Vanuatu citizenship program allows inclusion of:
- Spouse
- Children up to 25 years old
- Children over 18 must be financially dependent and enrolled in full-time education
- Parents of the main applicant
- Parents must be financially dependent and residing with the applicant
11. Is the investment payment made in two stages after preliminary approval?
Yes.
For the Real Estate Option (REO), the investment is typically paid in two stages:
- 25% at the time of lodging the application with the Citizenship Commission
- 75% after the application receives approval from the Citizenship Commission
Document Checklist (Typical Requirements – DSP Program)
The following documents are typically required for the Vanuatu Development Support Program (DSP):
- Certified copy of a valid passport
- Certified copy of ID card or driver’s license
- Original police clearance certificate from:
- Country of citizenship
- Any country where the applicant resided for more than 1 year in the past 10 years
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- High-resolution colour passport photographs (JPEG format) for each applicant
- Original medical certificate
- Six passport-size photos (40mm × 50mm)
- Certified copy of employment certificate
- Original bank reference letter
- Bank statements for the last 6 months
- Certified statement of assets / asset report
- Investment agreement for a lot in a Vanuatu Government Approved Project (if applicable)
- Professional reference letter
- Certified copy of academic certificates
- Certified copy of birth certificate
- Notarized copy of marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Certified copy of residence permit or visa (if applicable)
- Original passport application form
- Original capital declaration form (two sets)
- Proof of property ownership (if applicable)
Please contact us if you have any questions..