Why Choose Vanuatu Citizenship: 5 Reasons

The Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment program was launched in 2017 and is considered one of the “youngest” among similar offerings from other countries. Despite its relatively short existence, more than 2,300 applicants have obtained Vanuatu passports. The program is so lenient that only one candidate has ever been denied citizenship!

Vanuatu’s passport ranks 57th in the Guide Passport Ranking and 53rd in the Passport Index. Citizens of this island nation can travel visa-free to over 90 countries. However, they require a visa to visit Schengen countries, the EU, and the UK, while travel to Hong Kong and Singapore is visa-free.

One of the program’s main features is the incredible speed of obtaining a passport—just 1-2 months, and you’re a Vanuatu citizen. The entire process is conducted remotely through a licensed agent. Applicants are not required to visit the country, take language, culture, or history tests, or integrate into the local community.

Investors can participate in the program with family members, including children, spouses, and parents. In this review, we will discuss the program’s key features, the main stages of obtaining citizenship, entry conditions, and reasons why applicants choose the passport of this Pacific nation.

Key Features of Vanuatu's Citizenship by Investment Program:

Here’s why the Vanuatu program attracts potential applicants:

• An affordable entry threshold—starting at $130,000. For a family of 4, it starts at $165,000.
• The option to include any number of close relatives in the application, with an additional fee for each member starting from the fifth family member.
• Ease of participation—fast and convenient document submission and collection process.
• The possibility of earning passive income—the candidate may obtain a stock certificate in a regulated public company.
• A refund of $50,000 after five years, plus 5% passive income annually, if opting for an investment in the CNO Future Fund.

Main Stages of Vanuatu’s Citizenship by Investment Program:

In this section, we’ll explore the key steps to obtaining a passport through investment.

Background Check of the Applicant

Before being admitted to the program, the applicant must undergo a background check, which costs $5,000 per person. This fee is non-refundable, regardless of the result. The check is conducted by several agencies—Vanuatu’s financial control, Interpol, and the Department of Immigration. Once successfully passed and with all necessary documents in hand, the applicant can submit a request to join the investment program.

Document Submission

After receiving written approval, the applicant must submit the correct documentation, file an application, and pay the commission fees. The final amount of the payment and investment contribution is determined by the host country and must be paid through a licensed agent.

If, for any reason, the citizenship process is not completed, the registration fee and investment contribution are fully refundable, provided the full amount was paid when submitting the documents. The Citizenship Committee meets twice a month to make decisions.

Citizenship Acquisition

After investing, the applicant must take an oath, either in Vanuatu or at a consulate. After the ceremony, the new citizen receives a certificate and a passport.

Available Options for Vanuatu’s Citizenship by Investment Program in 2024:

In 2024, prospective citizens can obtain Vanuatu passports by choosing one of the following options:

Non-refundable Contribution – from $130,000

Applicants make a one-time donation to the country’s National Development Fund. These funds develop the economy and disaster recovery efforts, such as after Cyclone Harold.

Contribution to CNO Future Fund – from $157,000

In this option, applicants buy shares in the CNO Future Fund, supporting coconut oil production in Vanuatu. Applicants must register an international company, hold shares for at least 5 years, and earn a passive income of around 5%. After 5 years, they can reclaim about $50,000 of their investment.

Government Bonds – from AU$150,000

This option offers zero-coupon bonds with a minimum investment based on the bond term.

Five Main Reasons to Choose Vanuatu Citizenship:

1. Affordable Investment Threshold – Lower costs compared to European programs.
2. Tax Optimization – Favorable tax policies with no tax on wealth, inheritance, or income.
3. Visa-Free Travel – Over 90 countries allow visa-free or visa-on-arrival access for Vanuatu citizens.
4. Long-Term U.S. Visa – Vanuatu citizens can obtain a B-1/B-2 visa valid for 5 years.
5. Remote Application Process – All procedures, from document submission to the citizenship oath, can be done remotely through a licensed agent.

Under current Vanuatu legislation, original documents can be submitted only after the application has been approved. Previously, applicants could simply send scanned copies for review. The investment contribution process is also facilitated by specialists. Certificates and passports can later be delivered via special mail or courier service.

The final decision on whether to obtain Vanuatu citizenship rests solely with the applicant. As shown in the review, this is currently the simplest, most affordable, and fastest way to obtain a second citizenship.

A Vanuatu passport can meet a wide range of needs, both directly and indirectly. Directly, it offers visa-free travel to over 90 countries, tax optimization, the ability to obtain a U.S. visa, purchase real estate abroad, receive discounts on education at European universities, and open accounts in international banks. Indirectly, it can serve as a stepping stone for participating in a residency program in a European or Caribbean country that does not accept applications from citizens of Russia or Belarus.

GARANT.in is a licensed agent for the Caribbean and Vanuatu citizenship by investment programs. With us, you are guaranteed a successful outcome. Competent legal support at every stage is the key to a successful, productive, and efficient process.