Vanuatu

Vanuatu has long sought to invigorate its economy through investment immigration, taking significant steps such as amending its constitution in 2012 to allow dual citizenship. This South Pacific archipelago is a magnet for investors and passport seekers worldwide.

In 2017, Vanuatu launched the Development Support Program, offering "honorary citizenship" to investors who contribute $80,000 (for an individual) or $130,000 (for a family of four) to the government, with additional fees applicable. Successful applicants can expect to receive their new passports within two months, gaining citizenship in a picturesque tropical nation without any residency obligations and benefiting from a highly favorable tax regime.

Recently, in April 2021, Vanuatu further amended its citizenship by investment legislation to include government-approved real estate projects as an investment option. Applications under the Real Estate Option Program are mandated to be processed within three months according to the law.

Citizenship By Investment
Vanuatu offers two streams towards citizenship: a donation to the government and the Real Estate Option Program. The donation required is currently set at $80,000 for an individual applicant, or $130,000 for a family of four. There is no minimum physical presence requirement in order to maintain citizenship. The Real Estate Option Program allows foreign investors to sell houses, condominiums, apartments, but not vacant land. There is no unlimited free hold on the real estate, but the lease is reportedly for 75 years.

How To Apply
Vanuatu's rapid processing timeline is a significant advantage of its citizenship program, with applicants typically witnessing their paperwork handled within weeks. Initially, applicants are required to submit foundational documents—such as a police report, birth certificate, and notarized copy of their passport—alongside the due diligence fee. Upon completion of due diligence, applicants remit 25% of the donation amount to the Citizenship Commission, which convenes biweekly. Following approval by the Citizenship Commission, the remaining 75% of the donation is payable, and the applicant must swear an oath in Vanuatu or at a consulate to formalize citizenship.

Despite the program's potential, effective promotion of Vanuatu's Citizenship by Investment (CBI) offerings remains limited, leading to disparate information online. Caution is advised when relying on online sources, including official government websites.

In seeking guidance, investors can turn to "master agents" appointed by the Vanuatuan government, primarily based in Vanuatu. However, individuals should exercise caution when engaging with agents, ensuring they possess authorization from the Vanuatu Citizenship Commission or accredited master agents.

Applicants are encouraged to obtain application forms directly from the Vanuatu Citizenship Office. Despite previous reports, Vanuatu presently does not accept payments in cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin.

Mobility The Vanuatuan passport is a respected, mid-ranked travel document permitting visa-free travel to 130 countries, including Russia, Singapore and the Schengen Area.

Country
Recognized historically as a tax haven, Vanuatu has been progressively enhancing transparency efforts since 2008. However, financial services continue to play a significant role in the economy. Newly naturalized citizens can benefit from a favorable tax environment characterized by exemptions from income, withholding, capital gains, and inheritance taxes.

Comprising over 80 islands spanning more than 800 miles, this South Pacific archipelago boasts a tropical climate, pristine beaches, exceptional scuba diving sites, and active volcanoes. Vanuatu's allure lies in its remote and unspoiled nature, largely insulated from the mainstream tourism industry despite its natural splendor.