Vanuatu citizenship by investment: updated guide 2026

Brief overview of the Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment program

Vanuatu citizenship by investment is a program that allows individuals to acquire citizenship in Vanuatu by making a significant financial contribution to the country. This program is designed to attract foreign investment and boost the nation’s economy. 

Eligibility criteria are straightforward. Applicants must have a clean criminal record and demonstrate good character. They must not have previously been rejected citizenship or visa applications in other countries. There are no language or residency requirements, making the program accessible to a broad range of applicants.

Investment options are limited but clear: a non-refundable contribution to the state fund or the purchase of units in the CNO Future Fund. Unlike Caribbean CBI programs, Vanuatu does not offer real estate investment option. The minimum investment is $130,000.

The application process is simple. It involves selecting a licensed agent to submit your application, providing necessary documentation, and undergoing a due diligence process. Upon approval, applicants make the required financial contribution, and citizenship is granted swiftly.

3 Vanuatu investment options to choose from

1. Vanuatu citizenship by a non-refundable contribution — $130,000. Applicants obtain Vanuatu citizenship by contributing to the country’s development. The funds are allocated to support Vanuatu’s economy and combat natural disasters, such as the recovery efforts following Tropical Cyclone Harold.

The minimum contribution amount is $130,000 for a single investor, with the total price depending on the number of applicants. Besides, there is a Due Diligence fee and a banking fee for transferring the investment to Vanuatu.

Expenses under the non-refundable contribution option

2. CNO Future Fund Option — $157,000. The investor purchases units in the CNO Future Fund holding company to support sustainability and enhance the production of coconut oil used as a clean, renewable energy source. 

The investment must be retained for a minimum of 5 years through a Vanuatu-registered international company, with the incorporation cost included in the option fees. The total investment amount remains unchanged when adding up to four additional people to the application.

The projected return on investment is up to 5% annually, potentially returning $50,000 to the investor over 5 years. 

Expenses under the CNO Future Fund Option

3. Investment-Government Bond Option — AUD 150,000+. This option has not been launched yet. It is assumed that the Reserve Bank of Vanuatu will issue 500 units of government bonds with zero interest rates, denominated in Australian dollars.

The minimum investment amount depends on the bond category:

• AUD 180,000+ ($122,000+) — for bonds maturing in 24 months;
• AUD 170,000+ ($115,000+) — for bonds maturing in 30 months;
• AUD 150,000+ ($101,500+) — for bonds maturing in 36 months.

Investors who choose this option will apply through the government-nominated Master Agent. 

Individual cost calculation for Vanuatu citizenship

Get the cost calculation

List of documents needed for the application

Here's a list of documents necessary for the application. Please note that you might be asked to provide additional documents depending on your case:

1. Passport copy. A certified copy of the applicant's current passport.
2. Police clearance certificate. A document from the applicant’s home country proving a clean criminal record.
3. Medical report. A health certificate confirming the applicant is free from contagious diseases.
4. Proof of funds. Bank statements or financial documents demonstrating the ability to make the required investment.
5. Birth certificates for adults and children. Certified copies of the applicant's birth certificate.
6. Marriage certificate. If applicable, a certified copy of the marriage certificate.
7. Photographs. Recent passport-sized photographs of the applicant.
8. Agent agreement. A signed agreement with a licensed agent handling the application.

Step-by-step guide to applying for Vanuatu citizenship by investment

Applicants for a Vanuatu passport go through several stages to obtain a second citizenship, starting with selecting a government-approved agent who will handle the procedures on the applicant’s behalf. Based on the experience of Immigrant Invest's lawyers, the whole process takes 2—4 months.

9 benefits of Vanuatu citizenship by investment program

1. Fast processing time. The program is known for its quick approval process, usually completed within 2—4 months, making it the fastest citizenship by investment options available.

2. Freedom of travel. Vanuatu passport holders enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 107 countries, including Hong Kong and Singapore.

3. No residency requirements. There are no obligations to reside in Vanuatu, which is ideal for those who want the benefits of a second passport without the need to relocate.

4. Attractive tax regime. Vanuatu has no personal income tax, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax, offering a favourable environment for wealth management and planning.

5. Citizenship for life. Vanuatu citizenship is granted for life to applicants but cannot be inherited by their descendants. However, investors can add a newly acquired spouse and children for an additional fee.

Every 10 years, the Vanuatu passport must be renewed by submitting an application form to the Vanuatu consulate.

6. Dual citizenship permitted. Vanuatu allows dual citizenship, so you can retain your original nationality while enjoying the benefits of Vanuatu citizenship. However, make sure that your country of origin also allows dual citizenship.

7. Family inclusion. The program allows for the inclusion of spouses, children, and even parents, offering a comprehensive solution for families.

8. Privacy and confidentiality. The application process is private, and Vanuatu respects the confidentiality of its citizens, ensuring a discreet and secure process. It can be crucial for individuals who value their privacy and wish to keep their personal and financial information secure.

9. Investment returns. Under the CNO Future Fund option, the estimated return on investment is 5% yearly, bringing the investor $50,000 back in 5 years.

Dual citizenship in Vanuatu

Vanuatu allows dual citizenship, meaning you can maintain your original nationality while becoming a Vanuatu citizen. This flexibility is one of the major benefits of the program, allowing you to enjoy the privileges of both passports without renouncing your original citizenship.

Dual citizenship provides several benefits:

• access to more countries without visa restrictions.
• ability to invest and conduct business in both countries.
• a backup plan in case of political or economic instability in one of the countries.

It’s important to check your home country’s regulations on dual citizenship, as some countries do not permit it or have specific requirements.

Vanuatu passport validity and renewal

Vanuatu passports issued under the citizenship by investment program are valid for 10 years. Keeping your passport up-to-date ensures continued access to visa-free travel and the benefits of Vanuatu citizenship.

How to renew your passport:

1. Submit a renewal application. This is done through the Vanuatu Immigration and Passport Services or an authorised agent.
2. Provide necessary documents. Required documents typically include an expired passport, a completed application form, and updated photographs.
3. Pay renewal fees. A fee is charged for processing the renewal application.
4. Receive the new passport. The renewed passport will be valid for another 10 years.

Vanuatu visa-free countries

Vanuatu citizens can travel to 107 countries without the need for a visa or with a visa-on-arrival. Here are some notable destinations.

Asia. Countries like Hong Kong, Singapore, and Malaysia offer visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to Vanuatu citizens.

Oceania. Enjoy easy access to neighbouring countries like Fiji, the Solomon Islands, and Samoa.

Caribbean. Explore the Caribbean with visa-free travel to places like Barbados, the Bahamas, and Dominica.

Visa-free, visa-on-arrival and eTA countries for Vanuatu citizens

Other ways to obtain Vanuatu passport

Besides the investment route, there are other ways to acquire a Vanuatu passport.

Naturalisation. Individuals who have legally resided in Vanuatu for a significant period may apply for citizenship through naturalisation. The residency requirement is 10 years.

Marriage. Spouses of Vanuatu citizens may be eligible for citizenship after two years of marriage and residence in the country.

Descent. If you have Vanuatu parents or grandparents, you may be eligible for citizenship by descent.

These alternative methods usually take longer and involve more stringent requirements compared to the swift and straightforward investment route.

Key points about the Vanuatu CBI program

1. The Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment program requires a minimum non-refundable contribution of $130,000 for a single applicant.
2. The process of getting citizenship by investment in Vanuatu is one of the fastest in the industry, completed within two months.
3. Applicants must have a clean criminal record, demonstrate good character, and not have been rejected previously by other citizenship or visa programs.
4. The program does not require language proficiency or residency.
5. The application process involves selecting a licenced agent, submitting the necessary documents, and undergoing due diligence checks. Upon approval and completion of the financial contribution, citizenship is granted swiftly.

Frequently Asked Questions