Q&A – Citizenship of Vanuatu

These are the most frequently asked questions about Vanuatu citizenship for investment scheme.

Can Vanuatu revoke citizenship?

Vanuatu also joined INTERPOL for law enforcement efforts with international countries in Nov 2018. Vanuatu has since then revoked 34 citizenships and deported several foreign nationals for engaging in illegal activities. Note that if the passport of investor is revoked, also for family members.

What are the costs for Vanuatu CBI?

Under DSP program ,the total costs for a single person US$130,000 and US$180,000 for a family of 4. FIU check fee apply. The contribution covers all inclusive agent and processing fees.

Can i travel visa free to UK and Schengen?

No. Visa waiver is suspended. You have to apply for a visa to visit these countries.

How to apply for Australia visitor visa?

The process to get Australia visa is explained in this page. On top of that you can also qualify for Australia permanent residence through a pacific lottery scheme and later Australian citizenship after 5 years.

What are the processing times?

Please expect 1 to 1.5 months of processing times from the time you launch your application until passport is issued, if all documents in order.

When was Vanuatu DSP launched?

Development Support Program was launched in 13 March 2017.

How do i start the application process?

You can start the application process, by paying $7,500 due diligence fee and the rest after the letter of approval issued by government.

Why Vanuatu citizenship program is very popular?

The Speed of processing , simple application filing process, tax free benefits, visa free travel to 100 countries etc. makes the citizenship by investment program all the way more popular.

What documents are required to start?

Please be ready with important documents such as birth certificate, police clearance certificate, medical health certificate, passport and ID cards. Some documents need to be apostilled or legalized.

How to apply for UK visitor visa?

You must apply for a UK visa. Please refer to the visa procedure.

Does US have embassy in Vanuatu.? How to apply for B1/B2 US visas

Vanuatu citizens must apply through the US embassy in Papa New Guinea.

Can i buy real estate for Vanuatu citizenship?

Vanuatu does not have a real estate option to acquire citizenship. Only donation routes are possible at the moment.

Do you accept Bitcoin for Vanuatu citizenship?

The Vanuatu Government does not officially accept bitcoin or cryptocurrencies.

What are DSP and VCP schemes?

The Development Support Program (DSP) and Vanuatu Contribution Program (VCP) are two types of CBI program in Vanuatu. Both have the same contribution requirements and fees, but DSP program is very popular because there are more than 35 agents appointed by government.

When Vanuatu CBI program was launched?

The Vanuatu Development Support Programme (DSP) and Vanuatu Contribution Programme (VCP) was launched in March 2017 replacing the previous VERP scheme.

Does Vanuatu have a permanent residency program?

Yes, Vanuatu has golden permanent residency scheme issued within 5-7 days. The costs are very low. No investment or income required.

How to Apply for Canada Visitor Visa in Vanuatu?

You can apply for Canada visitors visa. Please follow the visa procedure.

Can i travel to Schengen countries without visa?

A visa is required. It must be applied at the nearest schengen visa consulate.

Can i submit applications electronically.?

Vanuatu Citizenship Commission (VCC) now accepts applications electronically which dramatically speeds up processing time frame. Your agent will handle all the process. Oaths can now be accepted through online video conferencing to issue Citizenship certificates.

Where can i download the application forms?

The application forms are available for free download in the Vanuatu citizenship commission website.

Is Vanuatu investor citizenship program officially authorized by Government?

Yes, it is legal and official program run by Government of Vanuatu.

Do i need to visit Vanuatu to receive passports?

No, you can collect citizenship certificate along with passport from your authorized agent or atVanuatu consulates worldwide.. 

What are the latest amendments made to Vanuatu citizenship by investment program?

2018: Vanuatu cut prices from $200,000 to $150,000

2019: Vanuatu further cut prices in 2019 according to the Citizenship (Development Support Program) Order 33 of 2019. The Government fixed prices for the citizenship scheme, requiring agents not to sell below the recommended prices

• Single applicant: Not less than $130,000
• Couple: Not less than $150,000
• Couple + 1 child: Not less than $165,000
• Couple + 2 children: Not less than $180,000
• Additional dependents: $15,000 per adult

All designated agents are to comply with this threshold and not permitted to sell below the regulated pricing.

Do i need to pay full investment at the start?

No. First you need to pay $5000 FIU due diligence fee to start the process initial payment, the rest you only pay, after the letter of approval is issued by Vanuatu citizenship commission.

Is Oath of allegiance required to be granted citizenship/passport?

Yes, you can take oath by visiting Vanuatu or you can ask immigration office to come visit your place. There is a charge of $2000 to $5000 per visit.

Does Vanuatu has any physical residence conditions?

No. There is no required to visit or live in Vanuatu after receiving your passport. 

Has Vanuatu revoked passports obtained under CBI scheme?

Yes, Vanuatu has revoked passports of close to 40 economic citizens, for involving in illegal activities and financial fraud. Further, a person who is found to have obtained citizenship by any false representation, fraud or concealment shall cease to be a citizen 30 days after such finding

Are are limits or quotas for DSP and VCP schemes?

No limits imposed on number of citizenships granted.

What is FIU check?

The Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) of Vanuatu does background checks of all citizenship investors and their family members against sanctions, criminal record, Interpol database and source of funds. Only applicants who pass these checks will be granted citizenship under DSP/VCP schemes.

The fee for FIU check is $5000 per person/adults. In most cases this check is completed within 7 days.

What documents are required to apply at first?

1. Police certificate
2. Original passport + certified copies
3. References and bank statements
4.  Marriage certificate
5. Birth certificates

Does Vanuatu grant citizenship against investing in real estate?

Yes, please see the REO program.

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Does Vanuatu allow dual citizenship?

Yes. If you are from a country where dual citizenship is not permitted, we ask you to seek legal advice. 

Does Vanuatu confer honorary citizenship to investors under DSP/VCP?

This legislation has been repealed and “honorary” has been removed from citizenship certificates.

Does Vanuatu has visa free trave to China or Australia?

Not currently, but a visa waiver expected soon .

How to incorporate offshore company in Vanuatu?

International business companies are very easy to incorporate in the tax haven of Vanuatu. Company legislation based on the english common law allows for the formation of flexible business company structures. Offshore companies legislation in Vanuatu makes it possible for only one director and one shareholder to incorporate a company in tax haven Vanuatu. Directors can be a corporate body or a natural person. Businesses can also open bank accounts.

There are no direct taxes both for individuals and corporations. Vanuatu also offers banking and financial institution licenses for $500,000 (offshore entities) and $1.8m (local firms)

How much time it takes to receive Vanuatu passport?

Please allow 30-60 days maximum or maximum 1.5 months. You can speed up your application by making sure that all documents are valid and correct

• Application processing: Less than 1 month
• FIU check: 2 weeks
• Passport time: 1 week

How long is the vanuatu passport valid for issued under DSP/VCP scheme?

As of 2024, the validity is 10 years.  You can renew your passport by paying small passport issue fee after 10 years. You dont need to redo the donation. Citizenship is issued for lifetime.

The passport office will process your application within the following timeframes:

Do you arrange meetings or can i visit your office?

We can arrange meetings in Dubai and Vanuatu.

Can stateless people apply for Vanuatu citizenship by investment?

Yes. Vanuatu is one of the few countries in the world accepts applications from stateless people (i.e no nationality)

Are there any restricted country nationals who cannot apply for DSP citizenship program?

 Iran, Iraq, Syria, North Korea and Yemen cannot apply for Vanuatu CBI program. The Vanuatu Citizenship commission may accept applications from restricted countries if the applicant shows that he or she (1) has not resided in the restricted country forthe past 5 years; and (2) provides evidence of permanent residency abroad.

Can i vote or hold government offices with citizenship obtained under investments?

No you cannot.

Is name change is allowed?

Only after getting your citizenship. You have to apply with affidavit (deed poll) for name change explaining with reasons for name change.

Can i visit Schengen states using Vanuatu passport?

The EU authorities imposed full visa requirement for all nationals of Vanuatu is suspended from 4 February 2023 to 3 August 2024. This effected all Vanuatu citizens visiting the Schengen area for tourism, business and visiting family and friends.

Can i visit United Kingdom (UK) without visa?

Effective 19 Jul 2023, The UK government has further imposed a visas on Vanuatu nationals visiting the UK, canceling the existing visa waiver agreement. All Nationals of Vanuatu now require to apply for a UK visa instead of traveling visa free. A four-week, visa-free transition period was offered for those who hold confirmed bookings to the UK made on or before 1500 BST 19 July 2023.

What are the important visa free countries i can visit using Vanuatu passport?

How many banks are there in Vanuatu?

Vanuatu has 3 popular international banks ready to do business with you. ANZ bank, BSP (Bank of South Pacific) and BRED bank. Vanuatu’s own NBV (National Bank of Vanuatu) also has a fine reputation for dealing with investors.

Banks found in Vanuatu are Westpac, ANZ, National Bank of Vanuatu and Bred Bank. Banking hours are as follows:

• ANZ – 9am to 3.30pm, Monday to Friday. ANZ have (ATMs) in Port Vila, Luganville and at Bauerfield International Airport.
• Bank South Pacific (BSP) – 8.30am to 4pm, Monday to Friday. Visit www.bsp.com.vu for more information.
• National Bank of Vanuatu (NBV) – 8.30am to 3.30pm, Monday to Thursday; Fridays to 4pm. The NBV Airport office is open for all arrivals and departures. There are NBV ATMs in Luganville, Port Vila and at the Port Vila Post Office.
• Bred Bank Ltd – Open Monday till Friday from 8.30 am to 3.30 PM (foreign exchange till 4.30PM) with an ATM outside the Port Vila branch.

There are currently more than 250 EFTPOS outlets around Port Vila and Luganville which accept the following cards – Visa, MasterCard, Cirrus, Amex, JCB & Plus card and Access International Debit Card.

Major credit cards Visa, MasterCard, and to a lesser extent, American Express and Diners Club are accepted at most major resorts and hotels and some restaurants and shops in Port Vila. Cash advances on Visa and Mastercard are available during bank hours.

Travellers cheques are widely accepted by the major banks and most of the larger resorts and hotels in Port Vila.

International and domestic cash transfers are available at Western Union branches, Vanuatu Post and Goodies in Port Vila (Opening hours: 8 am until 5.30-6.00 pm Monday to Friday and 8.30 am to 4.00 pm weekends and public holidays).

How many passports Vanuatu issued under DSP program?

As of March 2021, Vanuatu issued 10,500 passports, according to figures published by European commission.

What are the list of documents required for applying?

We ask our clients to start the process at least 2 months before applying. These documents must be prepared and takes lot of time.

1. Main Applicant
Signed Nomination form Signed Passport application form Valid Passport (certified notarised copies) Identity Card (certified notarised copies) Police certification from state of origin (certified notarised copies)Personal profile, including education and employment history Evidence of residential address Birth certificates (Originals) Medical certificate 8 colour photos (40mm X 50mm) Principal candidate’s asset proof (if applicable) Employment certification Bank reference Professional reference Academic certification Change of name documents Others

2. Spouse
Signed Nomination form Signed Passport application form Valid Passport (certified notarised copies) Identity Card (certified notarised copies) Police certification from state of origin (certified notarised copies)Marriage certificates (certified notarised copies) Birth certificates (Originals) Medical certificate 8 colour photos (40mm X 50mm)Others

3. Dependent children under 18-year-old,
dependent resident of 18 to 55 years old and 55 years old and up Signed Nomination form Signed Passport application form Valid Passport (certified notarised copies)Identity Card (certified notarised copies) Police certification from state of origin for 12 to 18 years old (certified notarised copies)Birth certificates (Originals) Medical certificate 8 colour photos (40mm X 50mm)

Important: Some of these documents have to be translated to english, legalized or apostille for international use. Please consult with your agent. Applications not in english will not be accepted

Does Vanuatu publish names of new citizens public such as in gazette or presidential decree?

No, it is also also not shared with other countries.

When did Vanuatu legalize dual citizenship?

Vanuatu legalized dual citizenship by passing amendments in parliament December 2012. This is done to attract investors. Prior to this dual citizenship was not allowed.

When did Vanuatu government establish Citizenship Commission?

Vanuatu established citizenship commission in 1980, under The Citizenship Act [Cap 112] to provide for citizenship by naturalization, renunciation of citizenship.

Does Vanuatu offer permanent residence visa or golden visa?

Vanuatu offers three types of golden visas,

-Self-Funded Visa
-Land-Owner Visa
– Investor Visa

Is Vanuatu listed in the OECD list of CBI/RBI schemes?

Yes, but this is only for banks to check vanuatu nationals opening bank accounts abroad must declare their tax residency.

Does Vanuatu cooperate with Interpol?

Yes, Vanuatu recently joined Interpol as 193rd country to fight organized crime on Nov 20, 2018

Does Vanuatu participate in the CRS tax exchange information with other countries?

Vanuatu committed to exchange CRS legislation in 2018, enacting both primary and secondary legislation. In July 2019, OECD rated VANUATU as “partially compliant” to effectively implement both the standard of transparency and exchange of information on request and the standard of automatic exchange of financial account information.

Can i renounce Vanuatu citizenship obtained through investment program?

Yes, you can

On what grounds Vanuatu citizenship may be revoked?

The Vanuatu Citizenship Commission has the power to revoke a Vanuatu citizenship based on the following grounds: 

•  the citizenship was granted in a fraudulent manner; or
• the citizenship was granted contrary to the provisions of the Citizenship Act [Cap 112] or the national Constitution of the Republic of Vanuatu; or
• the person after being granted citizenship is not complying with the restrictions provided by the Citizenship Act.

High risk applications include:

• citizens who have been Naturalized under the Citizenship Act (where there is some suspicion legislative requirements for Citizenship have not been met)
• people who may have the ability to operate as dual nationals
• siblings/family members of a known criminal (may steal their identity to circumvent travel restrictions)

Any applications falling into the above categories should be referred to the Director of Immigration.

What are the types of citizenship granted in Vanuatu?

Citizenship Act [Cap 112], the Vanuatu Citizenship Commission grants different types of citizenship. They are citizenship by:

1. Naturalization (Form A)
2. Non-Citizen married to a Vanuatu Citizen (Form B)
3. Entitlement (Form C (a))
4. Regain (Form C (b))
5. Honorary Citizenship under Vanuatu Development Support Program
6. Granting of Citizenship to an individual under Vanuatu Contribution Program

What does it mean by Ni-Vanuatu citizen?

Ni-Vanuatu citizens are indigenous people living in Vanuatu.

Does Vanuatu recognize same sex marriage?

Vanuatu does not recognise same–sex unions in any form.

Does Vanuatu require military service from investors?

No military service required. (not compulsory)

How many universities are there in vanuatu?

Vanuatu is served by the regional University of the South Pacific (USP). USP’s Emalus Campus in Port Vila, the University’s Vanuatu centre, enrolls 700 – 1,000 students per semester for certificate, diploma, degree and postgraduate courses and comprises USP’s School of Law and the Pacific Languages Unit, as well as distance education and a flexible learning centre and library.

• Matevulu College
• Port Vila School of Nursing
• Revans University
• Tagabe Agricultural School
• Harris University
• Talua Ministry Training Centre
• University of the South Pacific (Vanuatu campus)
• Vanuatu Agriculture College
• Vanuatu Institute of Teacher Education
• Vanuatu Institute of Technology
• Vanuatu Maritime College

How many tourists arrive in Vanuatu?

• Air arrivals: 10,607 (june 2019)
• Cruise ship: 7,555 (june 2019)

In 2019, Australian visitors accounted for 52% of all international visitors by air followed by New Zealand at 15%, New Caledonia at 10%, Europe at 8%, other pacific countries at 6%, China at 4%, other countries at 3%, North America at 2% and Japan at less than 1%.

Can the Vanuatu citizenship be inherited by family descendents?

Yes, the citizenship acquired through DSP/VCP schemes is lifetime can be passed to through third generations.

Does Vanuatu issue diplomatic or official passports under investment program?

No. Diplomatic passports are weak and quite useless compared to ordinary passports. Diplomatic passports give only diplomatic protection only on a specific country where the duty is assigned. For example if you are a diplomat assigned in France, protection applies only in France on duty, not when you travel to Italy. You cannot use diplomatic passports for personal use.

According to passport policies of Vanuatu these are the only authorized persons who can hold diplomatic or official passports on government duty.

How is healthcare and hospitals in Vanuatu?

There are five public hospitals, and one private hospital with 27 health centres located across the islands and more than 200 aid posts in more remote areas. The two major referral hospitals are located in Port Vila and Luganville 

How rich is Vanuatu compared to other countries?

Vanuatu has a population of over 270,000 and the per capita income is around $3,300

What is the currency used in Vanuatu?

Vanuatu Vatu (VUV). Approximately 1 USD = 117 VUV

How can i use Vanuatu passport when crossing the borders?

For dual nationals, most countries require its citizens to use the same passport for crossing borders when entering and exiting. For example. if you are US citizen, you must use US passport to enter and exit, no matter how many passports you have. Second passports works best from a third country, especially if you live there. 

What are the benefits of becoming a commonwealth citizen?

Vanuatu is a member of the Commonwealth and its citizens are considered Commonwealth citizens granting them additional rights in the United Kingdom and certain Commonwealth countries. 

The Commonwealth is made up of 53 member states.  

A Commonwealth citizen is a national or citizen of any member state of the Commonwealth of Nations. In some member countries, citizens from other Commonwealth territories are entitled to certain rights, including eligibility to vote in elections and serve in government positions. 

All Commonwealth citizens may receive consular assistance from British embassies and consulates in foreign non-Commonwealth nations where their home countries have not established diplomatic or consular posts

How can i fly to Vanuatu?

You can fly to Port Vila’s Bauerfield International airport (VLI) directly from, Australia, New Zealand, Fiji and Solomon. 

National carrier Air Vanuatu operates regular services to Port Vila from Auckland, Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Noumea and Nadi. Air Vanuatu also provides domestic services to a number of islands in Vanuatu. Other airlines operating to Vanuatu include Air Calin, Air New Zealand, Virgin Australia, Fiji Airways, Solomon Airlines, and Air Niugini.

Vanuatu’s international ports of entry are Bauerfield Airport on Efate, and Pekoa on Espiritu Santo. The airports are situated 10 minutes from their island’s city centres, being Port Vila and Luganville respectively. Other islands, such as Tanna and Pentecost, deal with domestic flights only, and as such, the airports are smaller and generally only have the basic amenities. On the remote islands, where access is generally limited, the ‘airport’ will consist of a grass landing stip and a small hut.

Is Australian dollar accepted in Vanuatu?

The Vanuatu currency is known as the Vatu. Although Australian dollars are accepted by many shops, restaurants and hotels in Vila, and a few in Luganville (Espiritu Santo), they are not readily accepted outside of these town centres or on outer islands. All major foreign currencies are exchangeable in Vanuatu for Vatu. Daily fluctuations in the exchange rate do occur, so it’s best to plan ahead to ensure you get the best possible rate.

ATM facilities are available only in Port Vila, Efate & Santo. Other outer islands don’t have ATM facilities except Espiritu Santo and Port Vila and overseas travellers can use their credit cards.

Where can i buy mobile number in Vanuatu? 

Vanuatu has two main telecommunication companies; Telecom Vanuatu Limited (TVL) and Digicel. Both companies have stores in Port Vila.

What is the VAT rate applicable in Vanuatu?

There is a 12.5% tax on accommodation, food and most products in Vanuatu, excluding market and local produce.

What are the bank and public holidays in Vanuatu?

January 1st – New Year’s Day
February 21st – Father Lini Day
March 5th – Custom Chief’s Day
May 1st – Labour Day
May 24th – Ascension Day
July 24th – Children’s Day
July 30th – Independence Day
August 15th – Assumption Day
October 5th – Constitution Day
November 29th – Unity Day
December 25th – Christmas
December 26th – Family Day

Where can i find hospitals and clinics in Vanuatu?

Hospitals, and several private English and French doctors can be found in Port Vila and Luganville, while small clinics and dispensaries with limited resources can be found throughout the outer islands. Serious injuries and medical conditions will require medical evacuation to more modern facilities in Australia, New Zealand or New Caledonia, so travel insurance is strongly recommended.

Is Vanuatu better than the Caribbean passport schemes?

Vanuatu citizenship scheme is slightly better than caribbean cbi schemes, in our opinion, but slightly expensive than Caribbean. Here is our quick comparison. The validity of passports, no residence conditions, and fast processing times are important factors to consider. 

Does Vanuatu guarantee citizenship for investors?

The Granting of Vanuatu citizenship is at the sole discretion of the government. You have to pay the full amount, only after receiving approval letter from the Citizenship commission. First apply, later you can worry about payments.

What are the common reasons for citizenship/passport refusals?

Refusals can be costly both in time and money for agents and applicants. The following are the most common reasons for citizenship denials under CBI schemes.

• Failing due diligence check done by Citizenship Investment Unit (CIU) unit of Government
• Failing background check by the due diligence agencies (Thomson/IPSA/BDO)
• Blacklisted by Interpol or other law enforcement agencies.
• Providing false information, concealment or lying in your application
• Threat to national security of the country.
• Previous criminal record.
• Previous entry visa or residence permit denials from Schengen countries, United Kingdom etc or with the country you have been denied a visa,  have signed visa waiver with the country where you are applying for citizenship under CBI.
• If  you are national of blacklisted country hit by sanctions  or trade embargo (Sudan, North Korea).
• Failed to provide evidence for source of funds or source of funds originated from country with sanctions.
• Reputation risk by Politically exposed persons (PEP).
• Applicant has ties to terrorism.
• Deported from a country.
• Failing health or medical checkups.
• Conflict of Identical names with criminals or blacklisted person.
• Insufficient income or unable to financially support family members.
• Involved in money laundering, financial crimes in other countries.
• Alert issued in Schengen information system (SIS)
• Providing false information about visas issued by United States and Canada.
• Found to be Involved with SEC fraud in the United States
• Found to have extradition case filed by a country.
• Found to have involved in personal or corporate bankruptcy.
• Found to have involved with civil actions pending against you in a court or threatened by creditors.
• Found to have applied for citizenship in another country and denied.
• Previous convictions of family members.

If you have already been issued a passport under citizenship by investment programme and later found to be on ‘wanted’ list, chances are your CBI passport immediately revoked. 

Does Vanuatu share information on refused applications to other CBI countries?

This will happen soon, as governments currently working on common protocol to share refused applicants, this way if once applicant is denied citizenship in one CBI country, automatically refused by other CBI jurisdictions.

What are the conditions to acquire citizenship by naturalization in Vanuatu?

Foreigners must have lived continuously in Vanuatu for atleast 10 years under ordinary naturalization. As you can see, citizenship through investments is much faster process rather than wait for 10 years.

How to obtain Vanuatu Citizenship by marriage?

Foreigners marrying Ni-Vanuatu nations must have been legally married and have been resident for atleast 2 years

How to obtain Vanuatu citizenship through ancestory without many investment?

Vanuatu offers citizenship through entitlement if at least one of his or her parent or grandparent is a person of Ni-Vanuatu ancestry or already a citizen by naturalization.

How can i obtain permanent resident visa in Vanuatu?

PR visa is granted by satisfying the following conditions:

• Any one that his/her parents are Ni Vanuatu or Ni Vanuatu descent or anyone who has been residing in Vanuatu for the last 12 month and have to apply to the office of the director of Vanuatu Immigration Services
• Any serious investor who seriously intended to invest in Vanuatu

Vanuatu Immigration department is mandated to provide an efficient and effective immigration service through the application and enforcement of the Immigration and Passport Acts.

The Department administers immigration functions regarding tourist and student visa, residence permits, passports, border control clearances, detention, removals and deportations. 

Does Vanuatu publish any reports or statistics on DSP and VCP schemes?

The Government does not publish any statistics or reports on passports sold to investors. 

What is honorary citizenship?

Honorary citizenship is a special status bestowed by a country to whom it considers to be especially admirable or otherwise worthy of the distinction. It can also be awared to foreign born or natives.

What is the difference between diplomatic and official passport?

A diplomatic passport is issued to diplomats and their families who typically reside in a foreign country. An official passport is typically issued to government officials and civil servants who travel abroad on behalf of their government. It is possible for a person to hold three passports from the same country – diplomatic, official and regular.