Citizenship of Vanuatu by investment is one of the fastest programs in the world. Created by the government to attract capital, it allows foreign applicants to obtain a second passport in just 1–2 months. For businessmen, investors, and families seeking international mobility, this path becomes a practical solution. In addition to access to more than 100 visa-free destinations, the Vanuatu passport offers tax advantages. There is no income tax, inheritance tax, or capital gains tax, and the process does not require residency or visiting the country.
Why is a Vanuatu Passport the Right Choice?
For applicants interested in confidentiality, asset protection, and simplified access to global financial markets, Vanuatu citizenship becomes a reliable tool. The process is conducted remotely, does not require exams, language proficiency, or mandatory residency. Additionally, Vanuatu recognizes dual citizenship, and participation in the program is possible with the inclusion of family members. This makes it especially attractive for those who want to secure the future not only for themselves but also for their loved ones. At the same time Vanuatu passport requirements remain as clear and flexible as possible — without excessive bureaucracy and restrictions.
The Main Criteria for Obtaining Vanuatu Citizenship through Investments
To participate in the government program for obtaining a Vanuatu passport, the applicant must meet a number of clear requirements established by the country’s immigration authorities. Firstly, it is necessary to make a non-refundable contribution to the National Development Fund (National Development Fund). The minimum amount is $130,000 for a single applicant. When including spouses and children, the amount increases but remains competitive compared to other jurisdictions. Secondly, it is necessary to confirm financial solvency. This means that the applicant must demonstrate the legality of the income source. Tax declarations, bank statements, documents on business ownership are accepted as confirmation. The main thing is to show that the investments were earned honestly. The absence of a criminal record is also mandatory. The applicant’s age must be at least 18 years, and their reputation must be impeccable. For this, certificates of no criminal record are provided from all countries where the applicant has lived for more than a year. In addition, all candidates undergo a comprehensive reliability check. This includes the analysis of documents, data from open sources, international databases, and sanctions lists. If suspicious connections are identified, the application may be rejected. Each stage is processed through an accredited agent who interacts directly with the government structures of Vanuatu. A detailed list of requirements and exact documents for applying for Vanuatu citizenship are available on the official website of the program.
Necessary Documents for Submitting an Application for Vanuatu Citizenship
The documentation package is formed individually, but there is a mandatory basic list. It includes an application, notarized copies of passports, photographs, a medical certificate, financial confirmations, translations of all documents into English. Family documents are also provided — marriage certificates, birth certificates of children (if they are applying together with the main applicant).
Particular attention is paid to financial statements: bank statements, documents on the source of income. They must be transparent and confirm the legality of the origin of funds.
Certificate of No Criminal Record from Vanuatu: What You Need to Know
One of the key requirements is a certificate of no criminal record. It is mandatory not only for the principal applicant but also for all adult family members. The document must be issued by the competent authorities of the countries where the person has resided for more than 12 months in the past 10 years. If necessary, a Vanuatu police clearance form — an official certificate confirming that the applicant has no criminal record related to Vanuatu. This is especially relevant if the person has already been in the country or has business activities there. The validity period of such a certificate is 3 months. If it has expired by the time of submission, you will have to issue a new one, otherwise, the review will be suspended.
Step-by-step Process of Submitting and Analyzing an application
The process of obtaining citizenship consists of several standard steps:
- Preliminary document check and consultation with an agent.
- Preparation of a complete dossier and submission for review.
- Conducting due diligence and issuing preliminary approval.
- Payment of the remaining part of the investment contribution.
- Obtaining a certificate of naturalization and a passport.
At each stage, an assigned representative works with you. The entire process takes from 30 to 60 days, depending on the speed of document preparation and verification.
What to Expect After Submitting the Application and How to Prepare for the Next Steps
After submitting the complete set of documents, the verification procedure begins. It is important to stay in touch with the agent and respond quickly to any clarifications. Upon receiving approval, you pay the remaining part of the investment contribution, after which an electronic certificate is sent to you and a passport is issued. The ready passport is delivered by a courier to the specified country. It is valid for 10 years and can be renewed. Its use is not limited — you can open accounts abroad, travel, apply for visas, register companies, and take advantage of tax benefits. In addition to citizenship, you can also consider obtaining Vanuatu permanent residency — a permanent residence permit in the country. This is convenient for those who value legal residency but do not need to change their citizenship.
