The Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment program has long established itself as a fast solution for obtaining alternative citizenship. Investors are primarily interested in the Vanuatu biometric passport for its neutral status. The program helps the small island nation in the South Pacific support its local economy. The country consists of 83 islands, 68 of which are inhabited. Vanuatu’s closest neighbors are Australia and New Zealand, with whom it has developed close relations in all areas.
How to obtain a Vanuatu biometric passport?
In 2026, successful applicants for Vanuatu citizenship will be required to appear in person at one of the country’s official missions to submit biometric data. The launch of this new procedure was long delayed, but was finally completed in late 2025.
Who is eligible for the Vanuatu program? In addition to the investor (the main applicant), the applicant’s spouse, children, and parents can be included in the application.
Investments for obtaining a Vanuatu biometric passport:
- A government contribution of $130,000 (USD) per applicant.
- Or a more advantageous coconut fund option for four people – starting from $165,000 (USD).
Advantages of a Vanuatu biometric passport (Vanuatu citizenship):
— Neutral citizenship with relatively fast online processing.
— Visa-free entry to 102 countries, including Hong Kong, Singapore, and Russia. However, Vanuatu citizens will need a visa to visit the UK starting August 16, 2023.
— For individuals, there are no taxes on income, wealth, inheritance, capital gains or capital outflow.
Processing. Steps to obtaining a Vanuatu biometric passport:
- First, you complete the necessary checks, then make the main investment.
- After receiving approval and paying the required fees, a Vanuatu-style birth certificate (with your original place of birth) and a Vanuatu ID card (valid for 6 years) will be issued.
- The applicant then selects a time and location to submit biometrics.
Please note that all family members listed on the application must be physically present to have their fingerprints taken for the biometric passport.
The average processing time for the Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment program is 4 months.
Vanuatu's current biometric enrolment locations
- Dubai, UAE – Vanuatu Consulate Office
- Hong Kong, China – Vanuatu Consulate Office
- Port Vila (capital of Vanuatu) – Vanuatu Immigration Service / Passport Office
- New Caledonia (French overseas territory in the South Pacific) – Vanuatu Consulate Office
Note that after receiving biometric data for citizens, passports will be issued in Vanuatu and then sent via courier services.
How do I renew my Vanuatu passport?
A Vanuatu passport is valid for 10 years. However, if you’ve run out of stamp pages, your passport is damaged or lost, or your document has expired, you can obtain a new one through APEX Capital Partners.
An alternative program is the citizenship-by-investment program of Sao Tome and Principe. Even faster. Read more >>
