To obtain Vanuatu citizenship, you must apply through the Vanuatu CBI programme by making a qualifying financial contribution and meeting the program’s requirements, including due diligence checks.
Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment: Updated Guide 2026
The Vanuatu citizenship by investment programme allows individuals and families to acquire second citizenship by investing in the country’s economy.
The main route is through a non-refundable contribution, requiring a minimum of $130,000 for a single applicant. The process takes 2+ months, which is the fastest among citizenship by investment programmes globally.
Fact checked by Elena RudaElena Ruda
Fact checked by Elena Ruda
Elena helped over 500 investors’ families to choose and obtain second citizenship or residency. She knows the pros and cons of each investment option and improves the industry expertise at the company.
Reviewed by Vladlena BaranovaVladlena Baranova
Reviewed by Vladlena Baranova
Vladlena leads preparation to Due Diligence and application for citizenship or residency by investment. She performs independent and in-depth analysis of investors’ situations and indicates possible risks. Vladlena helped to get second passports and residence permits to over 300 investors from all over the world.
Article content
- Brief overview of the Vanuatu citizenship by investment programme
- 2 Vanuatu investment options to choose from
- List of documents needed for the application
- 9 benefits of Vanuatu citizenship by investment programme
- Dual citizenship in Vanuatu
- Vanuatu passport validity and renewal
- Vanuatu visa-free countries
- Other ways to obtain a Vanuatu passport
- Why you should trust us
- Key points about the Vanuatu CBI programme
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Sources
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Brief overview of the Vanuatu citizenship by investment programme
Vanuatu citizenship by investment is a programme that allows individuals to acquire citizenship in Vanuatu by making a significant financial contribution to the country. This programme 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 programme 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 Cocoa Sustainable Development Fund. Unlike Caribbean CBI programmes, 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.
2 Vanuatu investment options to choose from
Applicants for Vanuatu economic citizenship can choose between a non-refundable contribution to the state fund and a partially refundable investment in the Cocoa Sustainable Development Fund. The final cost depends on the selected option and the number of family members included.
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 of 2020.
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
| Expense | Single investor | Married couple | Family of 3 | Family of 4 |
| Non-refundable contribution | $130,000 | $150,000 | $165,000 | $180,000 |
| Due Diligence | $5,500 | $5,500 | $5,500 | $5,500 |
| Translation and notarisation | $2,000+ | $2,000+ | $2,000+ | $2,000+ |
| ID cards and birth certificates | $1,000 | $2,000 | $3,000 | $4,000 |
| Biometrics in Vanuatu | $1,000 | $2,000 | $3,000 | $4,000 |
| Total | $139,500+ | $161,500+ | $178,500+ | $195,500+ |
2. Cocoa Sustainable Development Fund option — $165,000
The investor contributes to the Cocoa Sustainable Development Fund, which supports the development of Vanuatu’s cocoa industry. The funds are used to improve cocoa processing, modernise equipment, and support local farmers.
The minimum contribution is $165,000 for a single applicant or a family of up to 4 people. For each additional family member, starting with the fifth applicant, the contribution increases by $25,000.
Expenses under the Cocoa Sustainable Development Fund option
| Expense | Single investor | Married couple | Family of 4 | Family of 5 |
| Fund investment | $165,000 | $165,000 | $165,000 | $190,000 |
| Due Diligence | $5,500 | $5,500 | $5,500 | $5,500 |
| Translation and notarisation | $2,000+ | $2,000+ | $2,000+ | $2,000+ |
| ID cards and birth certificates | $1,000 | $2,000 | $4,000 | $5,000 |
| Biometrics in Vanuatu | $1,000 | $2,000 | $4,000 | $5,000 |
| Total | $174,500+ | $176,500+ | $180,500+ | $207,500+ |
Investment in the Cocoa Sustainable Development Fund is partially refundable, unlike the non-refundable contribution to the state fund.
After citizenship is granted, the Fund issues a unit valued at $50,000 in the investor’s name. The unit must be held for at least 5 years, after which it may be redeemed in accordance with the Fund’s terms. This enables the investor to recover $50,000 of the qualifying contribution, while the remaining amount is not returned.
In 2023, Vanuatu established a legal framework for a citizenship route based on zero-interest government bonds denominated in Australian dollars. The proposed investment ranged from AUD 150,000 to AUD 180,000, depending on the bond term.
However, the option is not currently listed as operational by the Vanuatu Citizenship Office and is not available to applicants.
Lyle Julien
Investment programmes expert
Investment programmes expert
List of documents needed for the application
To apply for a Vanuatu citizenship program, the investor must usually provide the following documents:
- Passport copy. A certified copy of the applicant's current passport.
- Police clearance certificate. A document from the applicant’s home country proving a clean criminal record.
- Medical report. A health certificate confirming the applicant is free from contagious diseases.
- Proof of funds. Bank statements or financial documents demonstrating the ability to make the required investment.
- Birth certificates for adults and children. Certified copies of the applicant's birth certificate.
- Marriage certificate. If applicable, a certified copy of the marriage certificate.
- Photographs. Recent passport-sized photographs of the applicant.
- Agent agreement. A signed agreement with a licensed agent handling the application.
Depending on their circumstances, investors may be required to provide additional documents by the Vanuatu authorities.
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+ months.
1 day
Preliminary Due Diligence check by Immigrant Invest
Immigrant Invest is an official representative of the Vanuatu citizenship by investment programme and knows how to help clients avoid risks when submitting documents.
Certified Anti-Money Laundering Officers provide a legal opinion and assess the chances of successfully participating in the programme. If they foresee potential difficulties with the application, lawyers propose ways to address these and reduce the chances of the investor being refused Vanuatu citizenship.
1 day
Signing an agreement
The applicant can conclude a Service Agreement with Immigrant Invest either in the company’s office or remotely. However, lawyers will need to receive copies of the passports of any family members participating in the programme.
2+ weeks
Preparation of documents
Applicants compile all necessary documentation, including personal identification, financial statements, and proof of no criminal record. Immigrant Invest lawyers assist applicants in collecting and correctly preparing the complete package of documents.
All copies of documents must be certified with an apostille and translated into English.
Up to 1 week
Check by the Financial Intelligence Unit of Vanuatu
The FIU of Vanuatu checks the reliability of the investor and determines whether the application can proceed. The check is usually completed in 3—4 days.
2—4 weeks
Applying for citizenship
The Citizenship Commission examines the investor’s package of documents, with meetings held twice a month. The Commission makes a decision on granting citizenship based on the results of the Due Diligence.
3—6 weeks
Fulfilment of the investment condition
The law requires investors to transfer the money in two instalments: 25% when applying for citizenship and 75% after receiving approval. However, in practice, investors usually receive an invoice for the total investment sum.
The payment must be completed within 90 days of the Citizenship Commission’s approval of the application.
1 day
Biometric submission
The investor and all family members, regardless of age, must visit Vanuatu to submit biometrics and undergo a facial recognition procedure. This can also be done at one of the Vanuatu consulates in the UAE, New Caledonia, or Hong Kong.
The biometrics will be used for an electronic chip embedded in the passport.
2—4 weeks
Receiving a passport
Once the agreed investment amount is received, the Citizenship Commission issues a naturalisation certificate and submits a passport request to the passport office.
The documents are then sent to the investor’s preferred address.
9 benefits of Vanuatu citizenship by investment programme
Vanuatu citizenship combines a fast application process with greater travel flexibility, family inclusion, and no relocation requirement.
1. Fast processing time
The programme is known for its quick approval process, can be completed within 2 months, making it the fastest citizenship by investment options available. In comparison, Caribbean programmes require at least 4 to 8 months.
Applicants must successfully pass Due Diligence and submit a complete set of documents to avoid delays.
2. Freedom of travel
Vanuatu citizens can visit over 90 destinations without obtaining a traditional visa in advance. Available entry conditions include visa-free travel, visas on arrival and Electronic Travel Authorisations, eTA. Among popular destinations are Singapore, Hong Kong, and Israel.
3. No residency requirements
Applicants are not required to live in Vanuatu before or after obtaining citizenship. However, every applicant must submit biometrics in person in Vanuatu or at another authorised location.
4. Attractive tax regime
Vanuatu does not impose personal income, capital gains, inheritance, or wealth taxes on individuals.
International companies may benefit from statutory exemptions from certain taxes, duties, and exchange control restrictions until December 31st, 2099. A separate annual government registration fee of $300 applies. Additional licensing, administrative and compliance costs may apply depending on the company’s activities and structure[1].
Vanuatu citizenship does not automatically establish tax residence or remove the investor’s personal or corporate tax obligations in other countries.
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[2].
6. Dual citizenship permitted
Vanuatu allows dual citizenship, so investors can retain their original nationality while enjoying the benefits of Vanuatu citizenship. However, applicants should confirm that the laws of their country of origin also permit dual or multiple citizenship.
7. Family inclusion
The main applicant may include a spouse, children under 18, dependent children aged 18 to 25 who study full-time, and dependent parents aged 50 or over. Adult children and parents must meet the programme’s financial dependency requirements. Parents must also live with the main applicant or their spouse.
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. Partial investment recovery
Investors who choose the Cocoa Sustainable Development Fund receive a fund unit valued at $50,000 after citizenship is granted. The unit may be redeemed after 5 years, allowing the investor to recover part of the initial contribution.
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 programme, 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.
- 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 programme 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:
- Submit a renewal application. This is done through the Vanuatu Immigration and Passport Services[2] or an authorised agent.
- Provide necessary documents. Required documents typically include an expired passport, a completed application form, and updated photographs.
- Pay renewal fees. A fee is charged for processing the renewal application.
- Receive the new passport. The renewed passport will be valid for another 10 years.
Vanuatu visa-free countries
Vanuatu citizens can travel to 94 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, eVisa, and eTA countries for Vanuatu citizens
Asia
| Country | Entry conditions | Duration of stay | ||
| Armenia | eVisa | 120 days | ||
| Cambodia | eVisa / visa on arrival | 30 days | ||
| India | eVisa | 180 days | ||
| Iran | eVisa / visa on arrival | 30 days | ||
| Israel | Electronic Travel Authorisation | 90 days | ||
| Jordan | eVisa / visa on arrival | 30 days | ||
| Laos | eVisa / visa on arrival | 30 days | ||
| Malaysia | Visa-free | 30 days | ||
| Maldives | Visa on arrival | 30 days | ||
| Nepal | eVisa / visa on arrival | 150 days | ||
| Philippines | Visa-free | 30 days | ||
| Singapore | Visa-free | 30 days | ||
| Sri Lanka | Electronic Travel Authorisation / visa on arrival | 30 days | ||
| Thailand | eVisa / visa on arrival | 15 days | ||
| Timor-Leste | Visa on arrival | 30 days | ||
| Uzbekistan | Electronic Travel Authorisation | 30 days | ||
| Vietnam | eVisa | 90 days |
Africa
| Country | Entry conditions | Duration of stay |
| Angola | Visa-free | 30 days |
| Botswana | Visa-free | 90 days |
| Burundi | eVisa / visa on arrival | 30 days |
| Comoro Islands | Visa on arrival | 45 days |
| Congo — Kinshasa | eVisa | 7 days |
| Côte d’Ivoire | Electronic Travel Authorisation | 90 days |
| Djibouti | eVisa / visa on arrival | 90 days |
| Egypt | Visa on arrival | 30 days |
| Equatorial Guinea | eVisa | 90 days |
| Eswatini | Visa-free | 30 days |
| Ethiopia | eVisa | 90 days |
| Gabon | eVisa | 30, 60, 90, or 180 days |
| Gambia | Visa-free | 90 days |
| Guinea | eVisa | 90 days |
| Guinea-Bissau | Visa on arrival | 90 days |
| Kenya | Visa-free | 90 days |
| Lesotho | Visa-free | 90 days |
| Madagascar | eVisa / visa on arrival | 90 days |
| Malawi | Visa-free | 90 days |
| Mauritania | eVisa | 90 days |
| Mauritius | Visa-free | 90 days |
| Mozambique | eVisa / visa on arrival | 30 days |
| Namibia | eVisa / visa on arrival | 90 days |
| Nigeria | eVisa | 90 days |
| Rwanda | Visa-free | 30 days |
| Senegal | Visa on arrival | 30 days |
| Seychelles | Electronic Travel Authorisation | 90 days |
| Sierra Leone | eVisa / visa on arrival | 30 days |
| South Sudan | eVisa | 90 days |
| Tanzania | Visa-free | 90 days |
| Togo | eVisa | 15 days |
| Uganda | Visa-free | 90 days |
| Zambia | Visa-free | 90 days |
| Zimbabwe | Visa-free | 90 days |
Europe
| Country | Entry conditions | Duration of stay |
| Belarus | Visa-free | 30 days |
| Bosnia and Herzegovina | Visa-free | 90 days |
| Moldova | Visa-free | 90 days |
| Russia | Visa-free | 90 days |
| Ukraine | eVisa | No data |
Oceania
| Country | Entry conditions | Duration of stay |
| Fiji | Visa-free | 120 days |
| Kiribati | Visa-free | 90 days |
| Marshall Islands | Visa on arrival | 90 days |
| Micronesia | Visa-free | 30 days |
| Nauru | Visa on arrival | 90 days |
| Palau | Visa on arrival | 30 days |
| Papua New Guinea | eVisa / visa on arrival | 60 days |
| Samoa | Visa on arrival | 90 days |
| Solomon Islands | Visa on arrival | 45 days |
| Tonga | Visa on arrival | 31 days |
| Tuvalu | Visa on arrival | 30 days |
Central America and the Caribbean
| Country | Entry conditions | Duration of stay |
| Antigua and Barbuda | Visa-free | 180 days |
| Bahamas | Visa-free | 90 days |
| Barbados | Visa-free | 180 days |
| Belize | Visa-free | 30 days |
| Costa Rica | Visa-free | 30 days |
| Dominica | Visa-free | 180 days |
| Dominican Republic | Visa-free | 30 days |
| El Salvador | Visa-free | 180 days |
| Grenada | Visa-free | 90 days |
| Guatemala | Visa-free | 90 days |
| Haiti | Visa-free | 90 days |
| Honduras | Visa-free | 90 days |
| Jamaica | Visa-free | 30 days |
| Panama | Visa-free | 90 days |
| St Kitts and Nevis | Electronic Travel Authorisation | 90 days |
| St Lucia | Visa-free | 42 days |
| St Vincent and the Grenadines | Visa-free | 90 days |
| Trinidad and Tobago | Visa-free | 30 days |
South America
| Country | Entry conditions | Duration of stay |
| Bolivia | eVisa | 90 days |
| Ecuador | Visa-free | 90 days |
| Peru | Visa-free | 180 days |
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Other ways to obtain a Vanuatu passport
Besides the investment route, there are other ways to acquire a Vanuatu passport[3][4].
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.
Why you should trust us
Immigrant Invest is a licensed agent of the Vanuatu citizenship by Investment programme, assisting investors at every stage of the application process. Before signing an agreement, our Compliance Department conducts a confidential preliminary Due Diligence check to assess the likelihood of approval and identify any potential risks.
Our lawyers and investment migration specialists guide applicants from the initial eligibility assessment through to passport issuance. This includes selecting the most suitable investment option, preparing and submitting the application, coordinating the Due Diligence process and biometric enrolment, and supporting clients until their passports are collected.
We also provide ongoing assistance after citizenship is granted, including passport renewals, document updates, and advice on using the benefits of Vanuatu citizenship.
Since 2006, Immigrant Invest has helped thousands of investors and their families obtain residence permits and second citizenship. Our company works exclusively with government-approved investment migration programmes and cooperates directly with licensed partners and public authorities in the jurisdictions where it operates.
Key points about the Vanuatu CBI programme
- The Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment programme requires a minimum non-refundable contribution of $130,000 for a single applicant.
- The process of getting citizenship by investment in Vanuatu is one of the fastest in the industry, completed within 2+ months.
- Applicants must have a clean criminal record, demonstrate good character, and not have been rejected previously by other citizenship or visa programs.
- The programme does not require language proficiency or residency.
- 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
How to get Vanuatu citizenship?
How much does a Vanuatu passport cost?
The minimum cost for a single applicant is $130,000. For a family of four, the cost can range between $180,000 and $200,000.
How many countries can a Vanuatu passport enter without a visa?
Vanuatu passport holders can enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 90 countries, including such popular business destinations as Hong Kong and Singapore.
Which country is easiest to get citizenship by investment?
Vanuatu is one of the quickest and most straightforward options for citizenship by investment, with a processing time of 2+ months without minimal residency requirements. However, other citizenship by investment programmes in the Caribbean countries are also attractive cost- and time-wise.
How can a person obtain Vanuatu nationality?
Nationality can be obtained by making a financial contribution to the Vanuatu economy, passing background checks, and fulfilling the necessary application procedures.
Besides the investment route, there are other ways to acquire a Vanuatu passport: naturalisation, marriage, or descent.
Can I buy citizenship in Vanuatu?
The citizenship by investment programme is not exactly as straightforward as simply ‘buying a passport.’
Besides making an investment, an applicant has to take several more steps, including submitting an application, undergoing due diligence checks, and taking an oath of allegiance.
Is Vanuatu Citizenship worth it?
Vanuatu citizenship offers numerous benefits, including visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 90 countries, no personal income tax, wealth tax, or inheritance tax, and the ability to reside in a tropical paradise.
Is Vanuatu the fastest country to obtain citizenship?
Yes, the application process is relatively fast compared to other citizenship by investment programmes. It can take as little as 2 months from the submission of the application to the granting of citizenship.
Is the Vanuatu passport still visa-free to the Schengen area after the 2022 suspension?
No, Vanuatu passport holders no longer have visa-free access to the Schengen Area. The suspension began in 2022 and was extended to all Vanuatu citizens from February 4th, 2023. The EU permanently revoked the visa exemption from February 3rd, 2025[5], so Vanuatu citizens must now obtain a Schengen visa before travelling.
However, a Vanuatu passport still provides visa-free or simplified entry to numerous destinations worldwide.
Can parents, siblings, or adult children be included as dependents in the application?
Parents and certain adult children may qualify, but siblings may not. A parent must be the lawful mother or father of the main applicant or their spouse, be over 50, live with the applicant and be financially dependent on them. Adult children aged 18 to 25 may qualify if they live with or depend on the applicant or their spouse and attend full-time education.
Is Vanuatu citizenship recognised for opening international bank accounts?
Generally, yes, but approval is not automatic. A valid Vanuatu passport may be submitted as an identity and nationality document, while each bank applies its own risk-based compliance procedures. The bank may examine the applicant’s tax residence, financial background, and the reliability of documents connected with the Vanuatu citizenship by investment programme.
The final decision depends on the bank’s policies and the applicant’s overall profile, not citizenship alone.
Can a Vanuatu passport be revoked after it's issued?
Yes, it can. The Citizenship Commission may revoke citizenship if it was obtained fraudulently, granted contrary to the Citizenship Act or the Constitution, or if the citizen subsequently fails to comply with restrictions imposed by the Citizenship Act.
False statements, concealed material information, or other legal violations can therefore result in the loss of citizenship and the related passport.
Sources
- Source: Vanuatu International Companies (Amendment) Act No. 4
- Source: Vanuatu Department of Immigration and Passport Services: Passport requirements and application procedures
- Source: Source: Vanuatu Citizenship Act, Cap.112
- Source: Government of Vanuatu, Citizenship’s Office and Commission: Citizenship application requirements and process
- Source: EUR-Lex: Regulation (EU) 2025/11 of the European Parliament and of the Council
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Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment: Updated Guide 2026
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