Vanuatu runs a citizenship by investment programme based on a contribution to the state. A recent change to European travel access makes the current position important to understand.
Information, not advice. Figures are indicative and current as of June 2026. Always confirm the present rules with the official program authority and a licensed professional before you act.
Vanuatu grants citizenship to approved applicants who make a qualifying contribution to the state, with no requirement to live in the country. Processing has historically been among the fastest in this category.
Two structures have been used. The Development Support Program is a donation route. A separate Capital Investment Immigration Plan combines a contribution with a redeemable investment. The Citizenship Commission oversees approvals through authorised agents.
Reporting in late 2025 placed the Development Support Program donation at 130,000 US dollars for a single applicant, with higher amounts for families. The Capital Investment Immigration Plan was reported around 155,000 US dollars for a small family group, including a redeemable investment portion.
These figures come from secondary sources and change over time. Confirm the current contribution levels and family pricing with the Citizenship Commission before relying on any number.
Vanuatu has historically processed approved files within a few weeks once due diligence is complete. After the 2025 review, confirm the current expected timeline with the Citizenship Commission.
Beyond the contribution, applicants meet due diligence fees, agent fees and document costs. Because the contribution figures are reported rather than official here, treat the table as indicative and confirm with the authority.
Vanuatu citizenship grants a passport and the right to live in Vanuatu. The key change to weigh is travel access. The European Union ended visa free entry to the Schengen Area for Vanuatu citizens, so a Schengen visa or an electronic travel authorisation is required for Europe. Confirm the present travel position for any destination that matters to you.
| Item | Reported amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Development Support Program, single | 130,000 US dollars | Reported late 2025, confirm with the Commission |
| Capital Investment Immigration Plan | About 155,000 US dollars | Reported, includes redeemable portion |
| European visa free access | Ended | Schengen visa or travel authorisation now required |
| Residence requirement | None | No need to live in Vanuatu |
Figures are indicative and current as of June 2026. Republic of Vanuatu, Citizenship Commission publishes the binding detail. Verify before you act.
No. The European Union ended visa free access to the Schengen Area for Vanuatu citizens on 12 December 2024. A Schengen visa or electronic travel authorisation is required. Confirm the current rules before travel.
It was briefly suspended in March 2025 and reopened in May 2025 after a review of due diligence. Confirm the current status with the Citizenship Commission.
No. There is no residence requirement to obtain or hold the citizenship under this programme.
Information, not advice. Figures are indicative and current as of June 2026. Always confirm the present rules with the official program authority and a licensed professional before you act.
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