Insights

Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment: Opportunities & Benefits

For the past 7 years, Vanuatu has given investors the chance to enhance their lifestyle through its citizenship program. From business to private life, the Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment offers a variety of benefits and opportunities. This is especially true for European citizens since this citizenship allows them to legally lower their tax burden.

In this article, we will discuss the benefits of opting for this country's citizenship and the investment opportunities it offers.

To begin with, let us explore how this program functions.

The Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment Explained

Since the Vanuatu government first implemented it in 2017, this migration program has existed to help investors fast-track their citizenship applications. Within 45 days, their Financial Intelligence Unit will verify your documentation, and the government will process your application. Then, you will gain the advantages of this citizenship.

In return, this island nation benefits from your investment. Over the years, they have had different funds that targeted specific sectors and projects to improve their country and recover from natural disasters.

Vanuatu Citizenship Requirements

To apply for this citizenship, you need to meet the following requirements:

  • Be age 18 or older
  • Have a police clearance certificate
  • Hold €224,800 ($250,000) in bank assets
  • Pay your due diligence and application fees
  • Prove the legal source of your contribution
  • Prove you are self-sufficient without a Vanuatu income
  • Prove your legal residence
  • Submit your identity documentation
  • Submit your professional documentation and references

Once you receive your application approval, you will have 3 months to make your contribution.

Note: This application is not accessible to citizens of Iran, Iraq, Syria, and North Korea. Unless you have lived outside those countries for the past 5 years and have a permanent foreign residence, the program's commission will automatically reject your application.

The Investment Opportunities in Vanuatu

 

As part of your application, you will need to invest in one of the following:

1. Development Support Program

The first investment option is the least expensive. With just $130,000 for a single applicant, you can invest in the country's improvement. Though this investment does not offer a direct profit, it allows you to help your new country improve its various sectors, including infrastructure.

2. Capital Investment Immigration Plan

The next opportunity is to contribute to the Capital Investment Immigration Plan. This option allows you to recoup €45,000 ($50,000) of your investment. Therefore, Vanuatu citizenship will have the lowest cost in the long run.

This investment option gives you the chance to receive reimbursement through investing in the coffee sector in Vanuatu.

The Benefits of Having Vanuatu Citizenship

Here are the advantages of securing this citizenship:

Low-Tax Regime

One of the greatest benefits of having this passport is that it can lower your tax burden. By carefully managing your finances between countries, you could potentially lower your taxes. This is because this country has fewer taxes than most European countries.

For instance, there is no wealth, inheritance, or capital gains tax. In addition, you could open a company there and not have to pay taxes for the first 20 years of operation. Plus, they have a low value-added tax of 12.5%.

Comprehensive Family Inclusion

Lastly, you can include your dependent children who are 25 or younger, your spouse, and dependent parents and grandparents in your application. Even after you have gained your citizenship of Vanuatu, you can pass on your citizenship to your children and your spouse. Then, you can protect your wealth as you pass it on to your children.

Fast and Convenient Application Process

Another advantage is that the application is so convenient that you do not need a Vanuatu permanent residency. In fact, this is the fastest Citizenship by Investment program. Therefore, it is a top option when you quickly need a second passport.

Furthermore, the procedure requires an agent. So you will be able to hand over your documents and wait for your passport. You will not even need to make your contribution until you receive your approval.

How Vancis Capital Will Guide You Through Your Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment Application

 

With the help of Vancis Capital, you will be able to navigate this application process with ease. We have headquarters in Dublin, Ireland, and offices worldwide, so you can easily consult us.

Our advisors will listen to your concerns and goals from your first meeting. Based on the information you share, we identify the best investment option that suits your circumstances. This attention to detail will ensure you are satisfied with your investment ― whether you decide to recoup or pass it on to your loved ones.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I become a citizen of Vanuatu?

You can become a citizen by investment, marriage, descent, naturalisation or through their honorary program. The simplest and most convenient path to Vanuatu citizenship is through investment. In comparison, the naturalisation route requires 10 years of continuous residence, and you will need to pass a test on their history, culture, and language.

How strong is a Vanuatu passport?

The Vanuatu passport has lost some of its strength and now has a 54 ranking. This is because the European Union installed temporary Schengen visa requirements. Nevertheless, this country still has visa-free or on-arrival access to much of Africa and Asia – including the business hubs: Singapore and Hong Kong. With recent news of Vanuatu strengthening ties with China and BRICS nations, there is growing speculation that you could see enhancements to its global mobility and passport power in the near future. Plus, this passport enables you to apply for the USA's B1/B2 visa and a long-term visitor visa to Australia and Canada.

How to get a Vanuatu residency?

You can get Vanuatu residency by investing, holding property worth €75,710 ($84,200), or proving you are self-sufficient with at least €1,900 ($2,100). Alternatively, being in a genuine relationship with a citizen or resident or being their child will allow you to apply for residency. Employees with minimum 12-month contracts are also able to apply for residency.

Vanuatu Citizenship

Conclusion

Now you know that the Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment is one of the most convenient migration programs for high-net-worth Europeans. It is fast, requires no tests, allows you to include your family, and you can do it without visiting the country.

These citizenship's advantages extend beyond the application process. They give you access to a low-tax regime and a variety of investments you can recoup in whole or in part.

To maximise your application's chances, consult experts such as Vancis Capital. We will ensure a smooth and short application process by quickly recognising any challenges in your application. We will also help you integrate into the country so you and your family can have a smooth transition.

Take charge of your future with our expert advisors

Get in touch to discuss how we can help you with your citizenship or residency by investment goals. One of our investment migration experts will contact you to discuss your case. With over 16 years of combined experience our team has helped hundreds of families achieve freedom.