Vanuatu offers a fast Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program, providing a second passport in months without residency. It's known for its tax-friendly environment and global mobility benefits.
Citizenship Pathways
Citizenship by Investment (CBI)
Cost: ~$130,000 (donation)
Timeline: 0.3 years
Presence Required: None required
Vanuatu offers one of the fastest Citizenship by Investment programs, allowing individuals to obtain a passport in 2-4 months with no residency requirement. It provides global mobility and a tax-friendly environment.
Naturalization via Permanent Residency
Cost: ~$7,950 for PR + living costs over 10 years
Timeline: 10.0 years
Presence Required: Continuously residing for 10 years
Individuals can obtain permanent residency in Vanuatu relatively quickly (5 days) and then apply for naturalization after continuously residing in the country for 10 years. This pathway requires significant physical presence.
Step-by-Step Process
Citizenship by Investment (CBI)
: Submit initial application and pay due diligence fees to authorized agent.
— 1-2 weeks — USD 5,000
: Undergo due diligence checks by the Vanuatu Citizenship Commission.
— 2-4 weeks — Included in initial fee
: Receive Approval in Principle and make the full investment donation.
— 1-2 weeks after approval — USD 130,000 (single applicant)
: Take the Oath of Allegiance (can be done remotely or in Vanuatu).
— 1-2 weeks after donation — Travel costs if done in person
: Receive Certificate of Naturalization and Vanuatu passport.
— 1-2 weeks after oath — Passport issuance fees (approx. USD 200)
Pros & Cons
Advantages
Fast processing (2-4 months)
No physical residency required
Tax-friendly jurisdiction (no income, inheritance, or capital gains tax)
Visa-free access to over 90 countries
Confidential application process
Challenges
High upfront cost for CBI
Limited visa-free access compared to other CBI programs
Political instability concerns
Due diligence can be stringent and intrusive
Requirements
Passport copy — Certified copy of current passport
Birth certificate — Certified copy of birth certificate
Police clearance certificate — From country of origin and any country resided in for 1+ year
Bank statements — Proof of funds and financial solvency
Medical certificate — Good health declaration from a registered physician
Tax System
System: none
Vanuatu has no income tax, corporate tax, capital gains tax, inheritance tax, or wealth tax. New residents benefit from this zero-tax regime on worldwide income.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I include family members in my CBI application?
Yes, spouses, dependent children, and dependent parents can be included in a single application.
Is there an interview required for the CBI program?
No, there is typically no interview required for the Vanuatu CBI program.
Can I visit Vanuatu before applying for CBI?
Yes, you can visit Vanuatu, but it's not a requirement for the CBI program.