How fast can I get Vanuatu citizenship by investment, and what does it cost?
Vanuatu offers the fastest citizenship by investment (CBI) program in the world. Here's everything you need to know about the timeline and costs:
Processing Time: 30-45 Days
This is not marketing - Vanuatu genuinely processes citizenship applications in 30-45 days, making it the fastest CBI program globally. Compare this to:
- Portugal Golden Visa: 2-3 years
- St. Kitts and Nevis: 3-6 months
- Malta: 12-14 months
Cost Breakdown (Development Support Program - DSP)
| Applicant Type | Donation Amount |
|---|---|
| Single applicant | $130,000 |
| Applicant + spouse | $150,000 |
| Applicant + spouse + 1 child | $165,000 |
| Applicant + spouse + 2 children | $180,000 |
| Each additional dependent | $10,000 |
Additional Fees:
- Due diligence fee (primary applicant): $5,000
- Due diligence fee (spouse): $5,000
- Legal fees: $5,000
- Agent fees: Varies ($10,000-20,000 typical)
- Biometrics travel: Variable (must visit Vanuatu or consulate)
Total realistic cost for a single applicant: $150,000-160,000
Alternative: CIIP Program (Partial Refund)
The Capital Investment Immigration Plan (CIIP), launched in 2023, invests $50,000 of your contribution into the Cocoa Sustainable Fund, which is redeemable after 4 years. This effectively reduces your net cost.
What You Get:
- Vanuatu citizenship and passport - full citizen rights
- Visa-free/visa-on-arrival access to 107+ countries including:
- United Kingdom
- Singapore (30 days)
- Hong Kong (90 days)
- Russia (90 days)
- Most Caribbean nations
- Important note on EU access: Schengen visa-free access was suspended in December 2022 and made permanent in December 2024. Restoration is expected mid-2026 pending EU review of Vanuatu's due diligence reforms.
The Process:
- Select authorized agent (required - no direct applications)
- Submit documents: Passport, police clearance, financial proof, application forms
- Due diligence: Background checks (7-14 days)
- Approval in principle: Government review
- Payment: Full contribution after approval
- Biometrics: Visit Vanuatu or consulate (UAE, Hong Kong, New Caledonia)
- Citizenship certificate and passport issued
Eligibility Requirements:
- Age 18-65 years
- Net worth of at least $250,000
- Clean criminal record
- No visa denials from Vanuatu visa-free countries
- Not from restricted countries (North Korea, Iran, Iraq, Syria, Yemen - unless 5+ years residence elsewhere)
Why So Fast?
Vanuatu's program is efficient because:
- Streamlined government processes
- Smaller bureaucracy
- Economic importance of CBI revenue
- Competition with Caribbean programs
The Bottom Line:
For those who need quick second citizenship with good travel access (excluding EU), Vanuatu is unmatched in speed. The $130,000+ cost is mid-range for CBI programs. The main limitations are suspended EU access and the fact that Vanuatu itself is a remote Pacific island.
For most applicants, the process truly takes 4-6 weeks from application to passport in hand.
Immigration Information Disclaimer
This content is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration laws change frequently. Always consult a qualified immigration attorney for advice specific to your situation.