Broaden Your Horizons with the Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment Program
The Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment Program offers an unrivaled blend of swift processing and remarkable benefits, making it a top choice for discerning individuals seeking second citizenship.
An undiscovered paradise, this archipelago offers everything – from pristine beaches, to untouched landscapes, and a rich tapestry of diverse cultures, warmly welcoming everyone onto its shores.
About Vanuatu
Vanuatu, a breathtaking archipelago in the South Pacific Ocean, comprises approximately 80 islands known for their stunning landscapes and serene atmosphere, complemented by a pleasant tropical climate. In 2017, Vanuatu launched its Citizenship by Investment program through the Vanuatu Development Support Program (VDSP). This initiative invites potential investors to contribute USD 130,000 to the nation’s local development fund in exchange for the opportunity to acquire a second nationality and passport, opening doors to increased global mobility and economic benefits. Additionally, Vanuatu introduced the Capital Investment Immigration Plan (CIIP) and a government bonds option, offering more avenues for investment. The CIIP allows investment in designated projects, while the government bonds option provides a secure investment channel with the potential for a full refund after a defined period, further enhancing the attractiveness of Vanuatu’s citizenship program.
CAPITAL
Port Vila
POPULATION
330,500
TOTAL AREA
14,760 km²
CURRENCY
Vanuatu vatu
Geographical Location and Climate
With an area size of 14,760 square kilometers (5,697 square miles) and forming an uneven Y shape, Vanuatu lies east of Australia. It boasts an array of scenic islands such as Espiritu Santo, Tanna, Anatom, and several others. Known for its active volcanoes, vast rainforests, and frequent earthquakes indicating structural variability, the nation offers a distinctive appeal. Its climate is tropical and divided into two major seasons – the hot and wet season stretching from November to April, and the cooler, drier period from May to October. If you are seeking a location that offers natural beauty and diversity throughout the year, Vanuatu offers just that.
Language and Culture
The official languages of Vanuatu are English and French which cater to a wide range of international tourists and residents. Vanuatu citizens also have a third official language called Bislama, which is the most spoken language of the island nation. However, more than 100 local Melanesian languages and dialects are spoken in Vanuatu, showcasing the cultural diversity of the country. The indigenous people, known as Ni-Vanuatu, are primarily Melanesian but also include Polynesian populations and small minorities of Europeans, Micronesians, Chinese, and Vietnamese. The culture of Vanuatu is highly influenced by its historical significance and traditional beliefs including an elaborate exchange network. Subsistence agriculture forms the lifeblood of their economy, thus rural scenes featuring farming activities are a common sight. People often gather at a local nakamal or men’s house for communal interaction, to drink kava, and connect with ancestral spirits.
Economic Overview
Vanuatu boasts a diverse and dynamic economy with a primary focus on agriculture. Subsistence farming, smallholder farming, and cash crop cultivation are prevalent, involving nearly 80% of the population. Key cash crops include copra, timber, beef, cocoa, and notably kava root extract, which are vital to Vanuatu’s export economy. Leveraging its status as a tax haven and international financial center, Vanuatu offers a range of offshore financial services along with its Citizenship by Investment Program. Additionally, the fishing and tourism sectors are increasingly significant, with tourism now emerging as the fastest-growing sector and a major contributor to the country’s GDP.
Why Choose The Vanuatu Citizenship By Investment Program
FAST ACCESS TO A SECOND CITIZENSHIP
The unparalleled speed of access to gain Vanuatu citizenship is a defining factor of the Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment program. With the processing period being as short as 1-4 months, applicants can quickly obtain their credentials and enjoy the many benefits that come with a Vanuatu passport.
GLOBAL MOBILITY
Experience the freedom of seamless travel to over 112 countries with a Vanuatu passport, offering visa-free access. This privilege includes diverse destinations ranging from Australia and numerous European countries to global cities like Hong Kong and Singapore, significantly expanding your travel possibilities.
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES
Vanuatu's tax framework offers significant advantages for businesses, making it an attractive destination for both local and international corporations. The absence of corporate and capital gains taxes enhances its status as a major hub for offshore financial services, fostering investment and business expansion.
FUTURE SECURITY FOR YOU & YOUR FAMILY
The Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment Program’s inclusive nature allows the inclusion of your spouse, dependent children, and parents under the same application. Moreover, dual citizenship is permissible under Vanuatu laws, ensuring that you or your family do not have to forego your original nationality.
How to Qualify
for the Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment Program
Qualifying for the Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment Program involves making a significant monetary contribution to the country’s national development fund or investing in government bonds. The applicants, however, must meet the below criteria:
- Must be over 18 years old and under 65 years old at the time of application.
- Must not have a criminal record, with a letter proving police clearance.
- Have at least USD 250,000 in their bank account.
- Must be able to prove the legality of their income
- Must not be from Iran, Syria, Iraq, North Korea, or Yemen, unless the individual has lived in another country for at least 5 years and maintains permanent residence in said country.
- Must be in good health.
- Must not have had past visa refusal incidents.
- Must provide birth certificates, passports, and biometric-colored passport photos for all applicants.
- Must provide information on recent employment history.
Family Inclusion in the Application
Vanuatu’s Citizenship by Investment Program allows certain family members of the main applicant to be part of the application.
These include:
– Spouse and children under 18 years old.
– Children between 18-25 years old who reside with or are financially dependent on the main applicant.
– Children between 18-25 years old who are full-time students.
– Parents and grandparents between 18-25 years old who reside with or are financially dependent on the main applicant.
Vanuatu Citizenship By Investment Options
The Vanuatu Citizenship By Investment Program is a great option for expats looking for a second citizenship. To become eligible for the Vanuatu CBI Program, the main applicant must complete one or more of the following minimum investment requirements:
1. Contribution to the Vanuatu Development Support Program (VDSP)
Investors must contribute USD 130,000 to the development of Vanuatu’s economy and fight against natural disasters. If the applicant applies with a spouse, the donation must be USD 150,000. To apply as a family of three the donation must be USD 165,00 and to apply as a family of four, the donation must equal USD 180,000. The donation will increase by USD 10,000 with each additional dependent. This is a non-refundable donation which will not yield any income.
Additional Fees (VDSP Option)
| Main Applicant | Spouse | Children under 12 years of age | Children 12 years of age and over | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Due Diligence Fee | USD 5000 | USD 5000 | Nil | USD 5000 |
| Application Processing Fee | USD 40 | USD 40 | USD 40 | USD 40 |
| Passport Fees | USD 60 | USD 60 | USD 60 | USD 60 |
| Citizenship Certificate | USD 120 | USD 120 | USD 120 | USD 120 |
2. Government Bonds Investment
Applicants also have the option to invest in government bonds that must be held for either 2, 2.5, or 3 years. This particular option is designed to attract Australian investors, which is one of the top countries for the Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment Program. This option also offers a currency hedge for investors, which will protect the investors against potential fluctuations in the Australian Dollar.
The minimum investment amounts of government bonds are as follows:
- AUD 150,000 (USD 97,680) – bond maturation 3 years
- AUD 170,000 (USD 110,704) – bond maturation 2.5 years
- AUD 180,000 (USD 117,216) – bond maturation 2 years
The Reserve Bank of Vanuatu issues bond units that do not accrue interest.
Additional Fees (Bonds Option)
| Main Applicant | Spouse | Children under 12 years of age | Children 12 years of age and over | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Due Diligence Fee | USD 5000 | USD 5000 | Nil | USD 5000 |
| Application Processing Fee | USD 40 | USD 40 | USD 40 | USD 40 |
| Passport Fees | USD 60 | USD 60 | USD 60 | USD 60 |
| Citizenship Certificate | USD 84 | USD 84 | USD 84 | USD 84 |
3. Vanuatu Capital Investment Immigration Plan (CIIP)
The Vanuatu Capital Investment Immigration Plan (CIIP) includes an investment option called the Coconut (CNO) Future Fund. The donations are directed towards designated development projects that contribute to Vanuatu’s economic growth and infrastructure enhancement. To qualify for citizenship by investment through this route, a single applicant, with the possible addition of a spouse and a child must donate USD 155,000. However, to apply as a family of four, the donation required is only USD 150,000. If you wish to add additional dependents, you must donate an extra USD 25,000 per dependent. It is important to note that USD 50,000 of this donation is redeemable after 5 years, making the investment only USD 100,000 out-of-pocket.
Additional Fees (CIIP Option)
| Main Applicant | Spouse | Children under 12 years of age | Children 12 years old and over | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Due Diligence Fee | USD 5000 | USD 5000 | Nil | USD 5000 |
| Application Processing Fee | USD 250 | Included | 1 child included (additional USD 250) | USD 250 |
| Passport Fees | USD 60 | USD 60 | USD 60 | USD 60 |
| Citizenship Certificate | USD 120 | USD 120 | USD 120 | USD 120 |
4. Real Estate Option Program (REO)
The Real Estate Option (REO) program in Vanuatu commenced on 23 July 2021. Under this program, applicants seeking citizenship are required to invest in one of the Vanuatu Government Approved Projects (VGA Projects) and pay the prescribed fees. These fees include the primary applicant, their spouse, and two children. Additional fees are incurred for any extra dependents.
The current VGA Projects approved under this scheme are:
- Pacific Springs: Located at Rentabao on the island of Efate.
- Narpow Point Coral Bay: Situated at Narpow Point on the island of Efate.
- FPF Rainbow City Project: Also located at Narpow Point on the island of Efate.
- Milai: Positioned on the island of Espiritu Santo
Additional Fees (REO Option)
| Main Applicant | Spouse | Children under 12 years of age | Children 12 years old and over | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Due Diligence Fee | USD 5000 | USD 5000 | Nil | USD 5000 |
| Application Processing Fee | USD 250 | Included | 1 child included (additional USD 250) | USD 250 |
| Passport Fees | USD 60 | USD 60 | USD 60 | USD 60 |
| Citizenship Certificate | USD 120 | USD 120 | USD 120 | USD 120 |
Procedures And Time Frame For The Vanuatu Citizenship By Investment Program
Register with NGE
Sign a retainer agreement with Next Generation Equity so we can help with your application process. We are a trusted, government-approved facilitator of Citizenship by Investment programs.
Gather Documents
Work with Next Generation Equity to gather all essential documents. We will ensure that everything is properly arranged.
Submission
Once your initial documents are ready, we will forward your application to the Citizenship Office and Commission. Upon submitting your form, you must also pay the application fee.
Review
The Commission will review your initial documents and perform due diligence checks on all applicants. Due diligence fees must be paid at this point. If due diligence checks are passed, a pre-approval letter will be sent within a week.
Receive Approval From VCC
Expect to receive your Approval In Principle from the Vanuatu Citizenship Commission (VCC) within two to three weeks. This approval indicates that you have successfully cleared the due diligence and background checks of the Vanuatu CBI Program. Once this step is complete, the next action is to make your investment payment in full.
Make Your Investment and Submit Documents
Upon receiving a letter noting the success of your due diligence check, you must ensure you have paid the entire investment amount. We will submit your final documents and the Screening Committee and the Citizenship Commission will perform a review of your documents, which will take around 2 weeks.
Complete an Allegiance of Oath
Once the receipt of your payment has been approved, the Commissioner of Oath from the Citizenship Office will provide you with an oath form to be completed in the presence of the Commissioner of Oath. The applicant either needs to fly to Vanuatu to perform the oath ceremony or pay for a Commissioner of Oath to perform the ceremony at a more suitable location.
Printing of Vanuatu Citizenship Certificate
On the same day as the oath ceremony, you will receive your Vanuatu Citizenship Certificate.
Receive your Passport
You should receive your passport/s in the mail.
Processing Times Of The Vanuatu Citizenship By Investment Program
The general processing time between applying for your Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment, and receiving your Vanuatuan passport is 1-4 months. The process will be quick and easy so long as all of the documents are correctly assimilated and the fees are paid promptly.
Benefits Of The Vanuatu Citizenship By Investment Program
Favorable Tax Regime
Vanuatu levies no personal income tax, capital gains tax, wealth tax, inheritance tax, corporate tax, or withholding taxes. This leads many global investors and entrepreneurs to a more economically viable life in Vanuatu, making Vanuatu a global tax haven for international investors.
Visa-Free Travel
A Vanuatuan passport gives you access to over 112 countries, including Australia and popular destinations in Asia and Europe such as Singapore, Hong Kong, and Russia.
B1/B2 Tourist Visas in the USA
Vanuatuan citizens can be easily granted the USA B1/B2 Tourist Visas for 5 years. These visas allow you to spend up to 180 days a year in the USA.
Dual Citizenship
Vanuatu allows you to maintain dual citizenship, meaning you don’t have to renounce your origin country, and in fact, you are required to remain a citizen of your origin country.
Lifelong Citizenship
The citizenship obtained via the investment scheme is lifelong and also inheritable, offering enduring stability and flexibility for your descendants. Your family members are also able to be included in your initial application at an additional cost.
Taxes in Vanuatu
Another feature that significantly contributes to the allure of Vanuatu, is its attractive tax benefits, especially to those seeking alternative residency or citizenship. Vanuatu has no tax treaties with other countries, however, in most cases in Vanuatu, taxes are not merely reduced but eliminated, offering invaluable fiscal advantages to both individuals and corporations.
Individual Taxation
One of the significant incentives making Vanuatu an attractive destination is the total absence of personal income tax, barring rental tax. Therefore, all individual revenue sources – including salaries, dividends, pensions, etc. – remain untaxed. Moreover, the government does not require annual personal tax returns to be submitted to the Customs and Inland Revenue Department.
Rental Taxation
Rental tax is the only individual tax due in Vanuatu. For landlords operating as individuals, rental income up to VT 200,000 (USD 1800) bi-annually is exempt. Rental income above this is charged at a rate of 12.5%, in 6-month periods. There are no deductible expenses that can be claimed.
Capital Gains and Inheritance Tax
There is no capital gains or inheritance tax in Vanuatu.
Corporate Taxation
Vanuatu levies no corporate tax on local or international companies. This tax advantage has made the country a favored destination for significant businesses looking to relocate their headquarters. Companies must pay a flat fee of USD 300 to be registered as offshore entities under the International Companies Act to be exempt from corporate income taxation. Tax obligations for companies essentially only comprise contributions towards social security and pension funds, amounting to no more than 6% of the employees’ salaries, and a relatively modest stamp duty of 2%. These tax policies result in increased profitability and wealth expansion for companies.
Value Added Tax (VAT)
The tax rates mentioned above may imply that Vanuatu is entirely tax-free for companies. Still, there exists Value Added Tax (VAT) applicable to domestic goods and services rendered. The VAT is standardized at 12.5%, barring designated sectors taxed at 0%, such as exported goods, global transportation of persons or goods, and services for approved educational institutes within Vanuatu’s jurisdiction.
Property Tax
In line with its generous tax allowances, Vanuatu imposes no real estate tax. However, there is a 5% stamp duty on the purchase and sale of real estate. Home to one of the world’s most robust offshore jurisdictions, Vanuatu’s stringent anti-money laundering regulations offer a haven for invested capital.
Vanuatu Citizenship By Investment FAQs
How Much Does Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment Cost?
To acquire Vanuatu citizenship through investment, a single applicant must donate at least USD 130,000. For a family of four, the lowest donation requirement is USD 150,000.
Can I Get My Investment Money Back?
If you invest via the Vanuatu Capital Investment Immigration Plan (CIIP), you will receive USD 50,000 of your donation back after 5 years. Additionally, if you choose to invest in government shares, you can get the money back in either 2, 2.5, or 3 years, depending on which option you choose.
Is Vanuatu A Tax Haven For Citizenship?
Yes, Vanuatu is considered a significant tax haven due to its zero or little overall taxes. The country imposes no personal income tax, corporate tax, property tax, capital gains tax, wealth tax, or inheritance tax. Only residential rental income and international companies that do not register as offshore entities are subjected to taxation.
Which is the Fastest Country to Recieve Citizenship by Investment?
Vanuatu is one of the fastest countries to grant citizenship by investment. Applicants can obtain a Vanuatu passport in as little as 1 to 4 months by contributing a minimum of USD 130,000 to the country’s national development fund.
How Can I Get Permanent Residency In Vanuatu?
Permanent Residency (PR) in Vanuatu can be obtained either by investing in real estate property worth at least USD 100,000 or by providing proof of steady income of at least USD 2,500 per month. Once these criteria are met, an individual can apply for the Permanent Resident Visa.
