Frequent Asked Questions
Vanuatu Citizenship FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions and answers. Please contact us if you have any other questions, by sending us an email at [email protected]. We will reply to you shortly.
When was the current Citizenship by Investment Program – the “Development Support Program” created?
There have been prior programs (CCP, VERP), however, the current DSP (Development Support Program) was launched on the 01 January 2017.
What is the government’s motivation behind it?
The Government of Vanuatu is looking at the DSP to both bring quality high net worth applicants to the program – who will hopefully be motivated to invest in Vanuatu, and to raise funds for the further development of the country.
How to apply for Vanuatu citizenship?
Citizenship can only be applied for and processed through an officially appointed DSP Representative. The Vanuatu Investment & Migration Bureau (VIMB) exists to provide a credible, reliable and sustainable global channel for the promotion of the DSP Program and provide a platform for the Officially Appointed Representatives to present from.
Who can apply?
Application for DSP Citizenship is through invitation and all applicants need to pass a stringent probity process to ensure they meet the desired citizenship profile that Vanuatu is looking for.
How does one apply when there is not an embassy in the applicant’s country?
Through a VIMB Official Representative or through VIMB directly.
How do I make sure that my application is submitted through the right channels and my passport will be issued?
VIMB strongly advises prospective applicants to check the credentials of the party offering the Citizenship Program. VIMB is the primary global distributor for the DSP and backed with a strong local delivery team in Vanuatu.
What is the duration of the process? (How long does the process takes?)
The first part is the Pre Approval phase in which the applicant completes the application Nomination Form and submits this with some documentation requirements and a USD 5,000 fee. This process usually takes around 10 days. This fee is non refundable.
Once Pre-Approval is provided, the Second Phase starts with all the documents required being submitted together with the full payment. This process, subject to the documentation being in order, takes between 30 to 90 days. Usually, this can be achieved in 30 days with the guidance of the VIMB Representatives assisting the applicant with their preparation of documents.
How much does the Citizenship by Investment Program cost?
The DSP application entry cost is USD130,000 + USD5,000 FIU and USD2,000 Administration fee for a single applicant.
What are the fees?
The Fee is a donation and administration cost. This can be verified on the Government’s Citizenship Commission website.
What is Vanuatu’s passport ranking?
The passport provides visa free/on arrival travel to around 100 countries including the UK, Ireland, Singapore and Hong Kong. The current rank of the Vanuatu Passport is 51th.
Does Vanuatu citizenship extend to families?
Vanuatu Citizenship is open to parents/grandparents plus children. Citizenship is hereditary.
Does anyone applying for the program will be liable of any taxes in Vanuatu?
There are no taxes in Vanuatu other than indirect taxes of VAT and import duty.
Do I need to go to Vanuatu?
No, applicants do NOT need to travel to Vanuatu to apply for Vanuatu Citizenship.
How many countries the holder of a Vanuatu passport can fly free visa?
Around 100 countries currently with further countries under negotiation.
Is Vanuatu likely to obtain a visa exemption to Australia?
Currently a three-year multiple entry visa is obtainable.