Overview of Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment (CBI)

Vanuatu offers a Citizenship by Investment program that allows foreign investors to obtain citizenship and a passport in exchange for a financial contribution to the country’s economy. This program is designed to attract investment while providing individuals with the opportunity for increased mobility and security through a second passport.

Investment Options

There are several pathways for obtaining Vanuatu citizenship through investment:

1. Donation to the Development Support Program (DSP):
   For a solo applicant, the donation required is $130,000.
   For a married couple, it is $150,000.
   The cost increases incrementally with additional family members, with each additional member costing $15,000.
2. Capital Investment Immigration Plan (CIIP):
   This option requires a one-time donation of $105,000 along with a redeemable investment of $50,000 into an approved government fund. The total initial outlay can be reduced after four years when the investment is redeemable.
3. Real Estate Option Program (REO):
   Investors can also opt to invest in government-approved real estate projects as part of their application for citizenship.

In addition to these options, there are due diligence fees of approximately $5,500 per applicant that must be paid upon submission of the application.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for Vanuatu’s CBI program, applicants must meet certain criteria:

• Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
• They should have no criminal record and must provide police clearance certificates.
• A comprehensive background check will be conducted on all applicants as part of the due diligence process.
• Applicants must demonstrate the source of their funds used for investment.

Application Process

The application process for Vanuatu citizenship is relatively straightforward and consists of eight steps:

• Initial consultation with authorized agents or representatives.
• Submission of required documentation including valid passports, police clearance certificates, and proof of funds.
• Due diligence checks conducted by authorized agents.
• Payment of applicable fees including due diligence and processing fees.
• Approval from the relevant authorities in Vanuatu.
• Completion of the financial transaction based on chosen investment option.
• Issuance of citizenship certificate upon successful approval.
• Passport issuance typically within one month after approval.
• This streamlined process makes Vanuatu’s CBI program one of the fastest in the world.

Benefits of Vanuatu Citizenship

Obtaining citizenship through this program comes with numerous advantages:

1. Visa-Free Travel: A Vanuatu passport provides visa-free access to 112 countries including Hong Kong, Singapore, and Russia.
2. Tax Benefits: Vanuatu has no personal income tax, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax which makes it an attractive destination for investors seeking tax efficiency.
3. Dual Citizenship Allowed: Vanuatu recognizes dual citizenship which means applicants can retain their original nationality while acquiring Vanuatuan citizenship.
4. No Residency Requirements: There are no residency obligations tied to maintaining citizenship status in Vanuatu.

Additionally, citizens can apply for long-term visitor visas in Commonwealth countries such as Canada and Australia.

In summary, Vanuatu’s Citizenship by Investment program presents an appealing option for individuals seeking alternative citizenship solutions that offer both economic benefits and enhanced global mobility.