Citizenship of Vanuatu is very convenient CIP in terms of processing applications. Especially if to compare with the processing of programs in the Caribbean region, which slowed down under the influence of many factors during 2022. Now for those wishing to obtain, for example, the citizenship of Grenada, the processing of the application is 8-12 months. Whereas Vanuatu citizenship can be obtained in 2-3 months. Moreover, like the Caribbean programs, this one is completely remote.
Citizenship of Vanuatu. Why make a decision now?
At the beginning of 2023, citizens of Vanuatu can take advantage of visa-free entry to 103 countries, including the UK (180 days a year), as well as Hong Kong and Singapore. Previously, the Vanuatu passport had an advantage as a visa-free entry to Schengen, but on March 4, 2022, the European Commission introduced a partial ban restricting entry for Vanuatu citizens with passports issued after May 25, 2015 (under the citizenship of Vanuatu by investment program).
However, the Vanuatu authorities continue to fight for the right to visa-free entry into the Schengen area, negotiations are underway with the EU, and joint work has already been scheduled to reform the program. The European Commission will re-evaluate the processing of Vanuatu citizenship by investment in 18 months, on August 3, 2024. It is expected that after the reform there will be more complex due diligence and bank compliance (now this stage of processing is absent), selection conditions will become tougher, and a ban on changing the name and surname for new citizens of Vanuatu will be introduced.
Vanuatu gained independence from the UK and France in 1980, but is still part of the Commonwealth of Nations, which means it maintains a connection with Great Britain as a partner with the right to visa-free entry. Vanuatu is only 12,190 km² of land in the South Pacific. The country consists of 83 islands, of which 68 are inhabited and have a length of more than 1300 km. Vanuatu’s closest neighbors are Australia and New Zealand.
Benefits of Vanuatu citizenship
- A simplified and efficient application process. Neutral alternative citizenship in 2 months.
- Visa-free entry to 103 countries (data as of the beginning of 2023), including the UK (180 days a year), as well as Hong Kong, Singapore.
- Citizenship of Vanuatu by investment program is valid for the applicant’s spouse, his children, as well as parents.
- There are no taxes on income, wealth, inheritance, capital gains or export of capital in Vanuatu. The taxes are the same for residents and non-residents. International Business Companies (IBC) registered in Vanuatu are exempt from paying taxes for 20 years and pay only an annual fee of $300.
How to apply for Vanuatu citizenship?
There is only one option — a non-refundable contribution to the state fund in the amount of $130,000 USD for one applicant or $180,000 USD for a family of 4 people. Please note that mandatory state fees (including due diligence fees) will be added to the declared investment amounts. As well as legal support services. Get a full quote on request from APEX. In addition to the investment, the candidate will need to show net worth of at least $250,000 USD.
