The Republic of Vanuatu, a peaceful island nation in the South Pacific, continues to operate one of the world’s most efficient and investor-friendly citizenship-by-investment (CBI) programs. Originally launched in 2017 under the Development Support Program (DSP), Vanuatu’s CBI scheme remains the only active citizenship program in the entire Asia–Pacific region, making it a uniquely strategic option for global investors.
Throughout 2024 and 2025, Vanuatu faced increased global scrutiny, especially regarding due diligence standards and visa-free mobility. Instead of retreating, the government strengthened the system with sweeping reforms, improved transparency, and tighter compliance. As a result, by early 2025, the program had regained international confidence and remained one of the fastest, most straightforward routes to second citizenship worldwide.
Why Vanuatu Stands Out in 2025–2026
Vanuatu’s DSP citizenship program continues to attract entrepreneurs, global consultants, investors, and frequent travelers for several reasons:
1. Fastest Approval Worldwide
Most applicants receive full approval in 6–8 weeks, making it significantly faster than Caribbean programs, which typically require 4–6 months.
2. Strong Global Mobility
Vanuatu passport holders can travel visa-free to 95+ destinations, including Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, the UK Overseas Territories, and most Commonwealth nations.
The government is also in active negotiations with the EU to fully restore Schengen visa-free travel, expected again by 2026.
3. Tax-Friendly Jurisdiction
Vanuatu offers one of the world’s most attractive fiscal environments:
- 0% personal income tax
- 0% corporate tax
- 0% capital gains, inheritance, or wealth tax
This makes Vanuatu an appealing base for offshore entrepreneurs, high-net-worth families, and global business owners.
4. Dual Citizenship Recognised
Investors may retain their existing nationality without restrictions, an important factor for Asian, African, and Middle Eastern citizens.
5. Simple, Remote Process
There is no residency, language, or interview requirement, and most of the process can be completed remotely thanks to Vanuatu’s e-Government portal.
6. English & French Speaking
As an officially bilingual country, Vanuatu provides global compatibility for business, travel, and education.
Investment Options (2025–2026 Structure)
| Route | Minimum Contribution | Description | Notes |
| Development Support Program (DSP) | USD 130,000 (single) | Non-refundable contribution to Vanuatu’s national development fund | 6–8 weeks processing |
| Family of 4 (Spouse + 2 Children) | USD 180,000 | Most popular package | Includes two dependents under age 25 |
| Additional Dependents | USD 25,000 each | For dependent children <25 or financially dependent parents | Case-by-case approval |
| Due-Diligence Fee | USD 5,000 per adult | Mandatory background checks | Non-refundable |
Total cost for a family of four: USD 185,000–195,000 (including government fees and agent charges).
Program Structure and Legal Basis
Vanuatu’s citizenship program is legally grounded in:
- Vanuatu Citizenship Act [CAP 112], with reforms introduced in 2018 and further enhanced in 2023–2025.
- Oversight by the Vanuatu Citizenship Commission (VCC).
- All payments are made through government-controlled escrow accounts.
Key Reforms Introduced in 2024–2025:
- Partnership with international due diligence agencies based in Singapore and London
- Mandatory in-person oath of allegiance at a consulate or via authorised delegation
- Launch of the e-Government Citizenship Portal for faster digital submissions
These improvements significantly increased transparency and strengthened global acceptance.
Processing Timeline (2025–2026)
Vanuatu remains the world’s fastest CBI program, with typical processing as follows:
- Document Collection & Preparation – 1–2 weeks
- Due Diligence & Pre-Approval – 7–10 days
- Final Approval & Investment Payment – 2 weeks
- Oath of Allegiance Ceremony – 1 week
- Citizenship Certificate & Passport Issuance – Within 48 hours after oath
Average total processing time: 30–45 days.
Visa-Free Mobility (2025 Updated Data)
Vanuatu passport holders currently enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 95+ countries.
| Region | Key Destinations | Stay Duration |
| Europe | Schengen Area (under review), UK Overseas Territories | 90 days |
| Asia | Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia | 30–90 days |
| Oceania | Fiji, PNG, Micronesia | 30–60 days |
| Americas | CARICOM countries, Latin American microstates | 30–90 days |
| Africa | Seychelles, Mauritius | 30–60 days |
Schengen Update:
Following Vanuatu’s major due diligence reforms, the EU is reviewing the reinstatement of full visa-free access. Restoration is expected by early to mid-2026, pending final evaluation.
Taxation and Business Advantages
Vanuatu’s economic environment makes it particularly attractive for global investors:
No Direct Taxes
- No income tax
- No corporate tax
- No capital gains tax
- No inheritance or wealth tax
Offshore-Friendly Corporate Framework
Vanuatu companies registered with the Vanuatu Financial Services Commission (VFSC) offer:
- Lawful global asset management
- Crypto-friendly policies
- Access to international banking partners
Stable Monetary Setup
The Vanuatu Vatu (VUV) is pegged to a basket of major currencies, ensuring financial stability.
Case Study – Fintech Entrepreneur from India
Profile:
Priya S., 42, fintech executive from Mumbai
Objective:
Obtain fast second citizenship for global business travel
Action:
Applied with her family through the DSP program for USD 180,000
Outcome:
- Approved in 47 days
- Visa-free business travel to Singapore, Hong Kong, and Europe
- Retained her Indian passport while gaining a second flexible nationality
Her words:
“Vanuatu was seamless — transparent, fast, and fully remote. It gave us flexibility we couldn’t find elsewhere.”
Cost Comparison Across Leading CBI Programs (2025)
| Country | Single Cost | Family of 4 | Processing Time | Key Benefit |
| Vanuatu | $130,000 | $180,000 | 1–2 months | Fastest citizenship globally |
| Dominica | $200,000 | $250,000 | 4–6 months | Strong track record |
| Grenada | $235,000 | $380,000 | 5–6 months | U.S. E-2 Visa eligible |
| St. Kitts & Nevis | $250,000 | $400,000 | 3 months | Highest prestige |
| Antigua & Barbuda | $250,000 | $360,000 | 4–6 months | Best family value |
Vanuatu remains the fastest and most affordable option for full citizenship under two months.
Risks and Considerations
- Visa-Free Access Sensitivity
Schengen access is under EU review, though reinstatement is expected after reforms. - Non-Refundable Investment
DSP contributions do not produce financial returns. - Small-Island Infrastructure
Vanuatu is remote but offers modern telecom, global banks, and strong digital services. - Reputation Risk
Always apply through accredited government agents to avoid compliance issues.
Overall, since 2023, Vanuatu has made significant improvements to governance and international credibility.
Expert Insight
Vanuatu’s program remains the only viable citizenship option in the Asia-Pacific and one of the few left worldwide that still processes approvals in under 60 days. The government’s 2024 reforms have stabilised confidence and revived investor interest.
Charlie Maggi, CEO – The Open World
Outlook for 2026
- Full EU visa-waiver restoration expected by mid-2026
- Possible real estate investment route (minimum USD 250,000)
- Digital ID verification integration for faster due diligence
- Deeper partnerships with international compliance agencies
Vanuatu is positioning itself to maintain its status as the world’s fastest and most efficient CBI program.
Conclusion
The Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment Program offers one of the world’s quickest and most accessible paths to second citizenship. With low costs, no taxation on global income, strong global mobility, and simple processing, it is especially attractive for entrepreneurs, high-net-worth families, and frequent business travellers.
Despite its remote location, Vanuatu delivers significant global flexibility and diversification—making it an excellent strategic choice for investors preparing for increased mobility restrictions in the coming decade.
Take Your Next Step Toward Global Freedom
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. How fast can I get Vanuatu citizenship?
Vanuatu offers one of the fastest processing times in the world. Most applicants receive full citizenship approval in 30–45 days, and in some cases even sooner.
2. Can I apply for Vanuatu citizenship fully online?
Yes. Most of the process — document preparation, submission, background checks, and payment — can be completed remotely through Vanuatu’s digital platform.
Only the oath of allegiance requires an in-person appearance at a consulate or authorised location.
3. Do I need to visit or live in Vanuatu?
No. There is no residency or physical visit requirement before or after becoming a citizen.
4. Does Vanuatu allow dual citizenship?
Yes. Vanuatu fully recognises dual citizenship, allowing applicants to maintain their original nationality.
5. What is the minimum investment required?
- The required contribution starts at USD 130,000 for a single applicant.
- A family of four usually pays around USD 180,000–195,000, depending on fees.
