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Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment (CBI) & Passport Program 2026
A Complete Guide
Minimum: USD 130,000 +
Processing Time: 1 - 2 months
Return to Citizenship by Investment (Golden Passport) Countries 2026
Introduction
The Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program is one of the fastest and most cost-effective routes to obtaining a second passport. Through various investment options, individuals and families can acquire Vanuatu Second Citizenship with minimal Vanuatu Residency requirements. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the Vanuatu Passport by Investment process, including costs, benefits, and procedures. The program provides investors with an opportunity to enjoy enhanced global mobility, tax advantages, and a secure offshore financial environment.
Country Profile
Located in the South Pacific, Vanuatu is a tropical paradise consisting of 83 islands. The country is known for its stable political environment, investor-friendly policies, and a thriving offshore financial sector. Vanuatu Economic Citizenship offers a gateway to a peaceful lifestyle, tax-friendly jurisdiction, and a globally recognized passport. The country enjoys a tropical climate, pristine beaches, and a relaxed island lifestyle, making it an attractive destination for expatriates and investors alike. Additionally, Vanuatu has a legal system based on English common law, ensuring a transparent and secure investment climate.
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Official Name: Republic of Vanuatu
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Capital: Port Vila
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Population: Approximately 315,000 (as of recent estimates)
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Area: 12,189 square kilometres (4,706 sq. mi)
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Location: A Pacific island nation located in the South Pacific Ocean, east of Australia and northeast of New Caledonia.
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Currency: Vanuatu Vatu (VUV)
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Official Languages: Bislama, English, French
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Spoken Languages: Bislama (predominantly), English, French, local indigenous languages
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Time Zone: Vanuatu Time (VUT), UTC +11
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Driving Side: Right
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Climate: Tropical climate with a wet season from November to April and a dry season from May to October. Average temperatures around 79°F (26°C).
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Government: Parliamentary republic
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Major Industries: Tourism, agriculture, offshore financial services, fishing
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Main Exports: Copra, beef, cocoa, timber, kava
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Famous For: Active volcanoes, diving sites, traditional culture, Espiritu Santo Island
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Motto: "Long God Yumi Stanap" ("In God We Stand")
Financial Requirements
To qualify for the Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program, investors must make a financial contribution through one of the following options:
1. Vanuatu Development Support Program (Vanuatu DSP) - A government-endorsed initiative requiring a non-refundable Vanuatu Donation:
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Single Applicant: USD 130,000
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Married Couple: USD 150,000
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Family of Four: USD 180,000
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Additional Dependents: USD 15,000 per person
2. Vanuatu Capital Investment Immigration Plan (Vanuatu CIIP) - A hybrid program allowing investors to combine a Vanuatu Donation with a Vanuatu Investment Fund Investment:
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Initial Non-Refundable Contribution: USD 107,000 (for a family of up to four). USD 25,000 for each additional dependent.
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Redeemable Investment: USD 50,000 (Refundable after five years). Invest in sustainable energy projects with targeted returns of 5% per annum.
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Due Diligence Fee: USD 8,000
General Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria to qualify for Vanuatu Second Citizenship:
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Be at least 18 years old
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Possess at least USD 250,000 in net assets
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Pass a strict due diligence check
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Have a clean criminal record
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Be a citizen of an eligible country (Citizens of Iran, Iraq, North Korea, and Yemen must meet specific conditions)
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Demonstrate a legitimate source of funds for the investment
Family Inclusion
The Vanuatu Passport by Investment program allows applicants to include:
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Spouse
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Dependent children under 18 (or full-time students up to 25)
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Dependent parents or grandparents above 50 years of age
Each additional family member incurs an extra processing fee. The ability to pass down Vanuatu Second Citizenship to future generations makes it an excellent legacy investment for families seeking long-term global benefits.
Benefits
The Vanuatu Second Passport offers numerous advantages:
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Fast Processing – Approval within 1 to 2 months, among the quickest CBI programs globally.
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Vanuatu Dual Citizenship – No need to renounce existing nationality, allowing investors to maintain multiple passports.
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Vanuatu Passport Visa-Free Travel – Access to 91 countries, including Russia, Singapore, Malaysia and Hong Kong.
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Tax Benefits – No personal income tax, inheritance tax, or wealth tax (Vanuatu Tax advantages attract global investors).
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No Vanuatu Residency Requirements – No need to live in or visit Vanuatu before or after obtaining citizenship.
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Confidentiality – Vanuatu does not publicly disclose the names of new citizens, ensuring privacy.
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Offshore Banking Access – Investors gain access to Vanuatu’s thriving offshore financial sector, known for secure banking services.
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Global Business Expansion – Vanuatu citizenship provides greater access to international markets and financial hubs.
However, it’s essential to note that the European Union revoked visa-free access for Vanuatu passport holders due to concerns about due diligence standards. Despite this, Vanuatu remains an attractive option due to its flexible policies and other strong global travel benefits.
Process & Procedures
The Vanuatu Golden Passport application follows a streamlined process:
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Initial Consultation – Choose an authorized agent for application assistance.
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Document Submission – Provide passport copies, financial statements, police clearance certificates, and other required documents.
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Due Diligence & Pre-Approval – The government conducts a background check.
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Investment Payment – Make the Vanuatu Donation or/and Vanuatu Investment Fund Investment.
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Oath of Allegiance – Can be done remotely or in person at an approved location.
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Passport Issuance – Receive the Vanuatu Passport by Investment, typically within 30-60 days.
The entire process is highly efficient, making it one of the fastest citizenship-by-investment programs in the world. Applicants can also choose to have their passport delivered via diplomatic courier services, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
Conclusion
The Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program offers one of the most attractive routes to global mobility, wealth preservation, and financial privacy. Whether through the Vanuatu Development Support Program (Vanuatu DSP) or the Vanuatu Capital Investment Immigration Plan (Vanuatu CIIP), obtaining Vanuatu Second Citizenship is a strategic move for international investors. With the benefits of Vanuatu Dual Citizenship, Vanuatu Passport Visa-Free travel, and Vanuatu tax advantages, this program remains a competitive choice for High-Net-Worth Individuals seeking greater freedom and security.
As global demand for second citizenship continues to rise, Vanuatu remains one of the most compelling choices for investors looking for a fast, efficient, and tax-friendly second passport. Its streamlined process, low-cost requirements, and minimal bureaucracy make it an ideal solution for individuals and families looking to expand their financial and personal freedom. For those seeking a secure, reputable, and globally recognized second citizenship, Vanuatu stands out as an excellent option in the world of economic migration.
FAQs
1. What is the Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Program?
The Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program offers foreign investors a fast-track route to acquiring a Vanuatu passport by investment. By making a financial contribution through the Vanuatu Development Support Program (Vanuatu DSP) or the Vanuatu Capital Investment Immigration Plan (Vanuatu CIIP), eligible applicants can obtain Vanuatu second citizenship in as little as 45 to 60 days.
2. What are the investment options for the Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Program?
There are two main routes to obtain a Vanuatu Golden Passport under the Vanuatu Economic Citizenship program:
a) Vanuatu Development Support Program (Vanuatu DSP): A Vanuatu donation of USD 130,000 (single applicant) or USD 180,000 (family of four) to the national development fund.
b) Vanuatu Capital Investment Immigration Plan (Vanuatu CIIP): A total contribution of USD 157,000, which includes a Vanuatu Investment Fund investment component that can be refunded after five years.
Both options grant Vanuatu second passport benefits, including tax advantages, visa-free travel, and dual citizenship.
3. What are the eligibility requirements for Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment (CBI)?
To qualify for Vanuatu economic citizenship, applicants must:
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Be at least 18 years old.
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Possess a clean criminal record.
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Have a net worth of at least USD 500,000, with USD 250,000 in banking assets.
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Be in good health.
4. Can my family members be included in the application?
Yes. The Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program allows you to include:
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Spouse
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Children under 25 years old (if financially dependent)
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Parents over 50 years old
5. What is the step-by-step process to obtain a Vanuatu passport by investment?
The process to secure Vanuatu second citizenship is streamlined and efficient:
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Submit preliminary application and pay the USD 5,500 due diligence fee for the DSP option or USD 8,000 for the CIIP option.
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Background verification conducted by Vanuatu authorities.
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Approval in principle granted.
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Make the required Vanuatu donation or investment under Vanuatu DSP or Vanuatu CIIP.
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Take the Oath of Allegiance (remotely via video call).
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Receive your Vanuatu Golden Passport within 45-60 days.
6. Is travel to Vanuatu required for citizenship approval?
No, applicants can complete the entire Vanuatu second passport application remotely. The oath ceremony can be done via video conference.
7. What are the travel benefits of a Vanuatu passport visa-free?
A Vanuatu passport by investment grants visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 90 countries, including Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia and Russia – enjoy seamless global travel.
8. Does Vanuatu allow dual citizenship?
Yes. The Vanuatu Dual Citizenship policy allows investors to retain their existing nationality while enjoying the benefits of Vanuatu economic citizenship.
9. What are the tax advantages of Vanuatu citizenship?
One of the biggest benefits of Vanuatu second citizenship is its favourable Vanuatu tax regime:
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No personal income tax
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No corporate tax
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No capital gains tax
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No inheritance tax
This makes Vanuatu second passport holders highly attractive for global tax planning.
10. How secure is the Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Program?
The Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program is government-approved and legally recognized. All applications are processed through authorized agents and undergo strict due diligence checks.
Final Thoughts: Is Vanuatu Second Citizenship Worth It?
The Vanuatu Passport by Investment program offers global mobility, tax advantages, and a fast-tracked process with no Vanuatu Residency requirements. Whether you are looking for a Vanuatu Golden Passport, Vanuatu tax benefits, or a strategic second citizenship, the Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Program is an excellent choice.