If you’re tired of the hectic lifestyle in a bustling city and are considering relocating to a remote area where you can relax, Vanuatu is the place for you. Or if you are an investor looking to diversify your portfolio, Vanuatu is one of the best options. 

Vanuatu offers many citizenship options to foreign nationals. This article will explain the country’s citizenship options, citizenship by investment program, and benefits. Read on to learn more. 

Vanuatu Citizenship Options 

Vanuatu is a beautiful country located in the South Pacific Ocean. The island nation provides foreign nationals the opportunity to obtain citizenship. There are various ways to acquire Vanuatu citizenship, and some of them are listed below:

• Citizenship by Investment: For those seeking second citizenship, Vanuatu’s citizenship by investment program is a great option. Through this program, investors contribute to the country’s economy in exchange for citizenship. This option facilitates economic growth and many other opportunities.

• Naturalization: In this pathway, individuals have to meet residency requirements, which means they have to live in Vanuatu for a certain period and demonstrate sound character to fulfill the criteria of naturalization and apply for citizenship. 

• Birthright and Lineage Citizenship: Any child who is born in Vanuatu becomes a citizen of the country. This is called birthright citizenship. Lineage citizenship means obtaining citizenship based on familial connections, such as through parents or grandparents who are citizens of Vanuatu. 

• Marriage: Vanuatu also offers citizenship through marriage. If a non-citizen is married to a Vanuatu citizen for a certain period and the couple demonstrates a good marital relationship, he/she is eligible to apply for citizenship.  

Among all the above options, the Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program is a bit complex and has some mandatory requirements that must be met to be eligible. You can learn more about it in this Vanuatu citizenship by investment guide on LinkedIn. 

Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Program

The Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program is an attractive option for foreign nationals. Investors can obtain citizenship and enjoy island life by investing a certain amount of money in the country’s economy. Here’s a thorough explanation of the program:

Eligibility Criteria 

Some of the basic eligibility requirements are:

• Applicants must be more than 18 years of age
• Must show proof of a clean criminal record 
• Investors must contribute to the county’s economy 
• Must have stable financial conditions 
• Good health is typically a requirement 
• With additional fees, children under 18 and financially dependent parents/grandparents can be included in the application

Investment Requirements

The two main investment options under the CBI programs are:

1. Real Estate: In this option, individuals must invest in a government-approved real estate project in addition to payment of the prescribed fees. 
2. Government Contribution Program: This is a straightforward option. Investors must make a non-refundable donation to the Vanuatu Development Support Program (VDSP). The minimum contribution amount varies depending on the number of applicants in your application. 

• Single Applicant: $130,000
• Married Couple: $150,000
• Family of Three: $165,000

• Family of Four: $180,000
• Additional Family Members: $10,000

Application Process 

The application process for this program involves several steps:

• Consultation: Consult an agent or government-approved consultant. They can guide you through the program and application process. 
• Due Diligence: Individuals have to undergo background checks and provide proof to demonstrate they meet all the eligibility and investment requirements. 
• Application Submission: Gather all the necessary documents beforehand. After the due diligence process, submit the formal application with supporting documents such as your passport, proof of address, police clearance, identity proof, etc. 
• Visa Processing: Vanuatu government authorities will review your application. The processing times can vary and take several months.  
• Approval and Oath Ceremony: After approval, participate in the oath ceremony to officially become a Vanuatu citizen.  

Considering Vanuatu Citizenship (Pros and Cons)

Vanuatu’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program is a perfect route to island living and a second passport. However, before making the decision, it is essential to weigh the pros and cons of the program to determine if it aligns with your goals. 

Pros: 

• Island Life: Vanuatu boasts beautiful beaches, laid-back culture, and lush rainforests. The program opens the door to living in an island paradise. 
• Tax Haven: Vanuatu’s zero income, capital gains, and inheritance tax regime benefits people seeking tax optimization. 
• Global Mobility: Citizenship grants visa-free travel to many countries, including major European and Asian destinations. It’s a great opportunity to explore business ventures and travel.
• Investment Diversification: In case of economic or political instability in your home country, Vanuatu provides alternate residency and a secure financial environment. 
• Fast Processing: The visa processing time for this program is relatively faster than the others. 
• Family Benefits: The program allows applicants to include their family members in the application. 

Learn the benefits of the Vanuatu passport, as explained on Global Residence Index. You can also consult the team for guidance regarding the application process. 

Cons:

• Investment Cost: The required investment is huge and is not affordable for everyone. There are also additional costs associated with the application. 
• Lifestyle Change: People will experience significant changes in their lifestyle. The country offers a relaxed pace of living compared to fast-moving metropolitan cities. So, only consider if you’re comfortable with this change. 
• Limited Job Market: If you plan to relocate and work in Vanuatu, research the job market before applying. Depending on your field, job opportunities can be scarce in the country.
• Remoteness: Living in Vanuatu means adopting a secluded lifestyle. The place is far from major business and cultural centers and has limited access to certain amenities. 
• Due Diligence: The application process requires thorough due diligence checks, so be prepared to provide exclusive documentation. 
• Reliance on Consultants: For some, the application can be complex, so consulting professionals can streamline the process. However, it adds up to the overall costs. 

Wind-up

Vanuatu is a wonderful place to reside. With beaches, surrounding islands, and a relaxed lifestyle, it is a country that offers peace. 

Hope this article helped you understand everything about Citizenship in Vanuatu. Conduct thorough research, and if the option aligns with your goals, go apply for citizenship. 

Meta– If you dream of living in an island nation, Vanuatu is the perfect option. Learn about Vanuatu’a citizenship programs, its application process, and more.