In an increasingly complex global environment, second citizenship has evolved from a luxury into a practical tool for mobility, wealth planning, and long-term security. Among the available options worldwide, Vanuatu’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program remains one of the fastest, most straightforward, and cost-efficient ways to obtain an alternative passport. With processing times starting at just two months and entry costs well below those of Caribbean and European programs, Vanuatu continues to attract investors seeking speed, simplicity, and flexibility — without residency obligations.
To assess the true value of this program, investors must look beyond headline figures and understand the complete cost structure, including government contributions, due diligence checks, biometric requirements, and family-related expenses. This guide provides a clear and practical overview of the total cost of obtaining Vanuatu citizenship in 2025.
Overview of Vanuatu’s Citizenship Programs
Vanuatu, a sovereign island nation in the South Pacific, operates two official citizenship by investment routes:
- Development Support Program (DSP)
- Capital Investment Immigration Plan (CIIP)
Both pathways grant full citizenship, allow dual nationality, and provide visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 90+ countries, including Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia, and numerous destinations across Oceania and the Caribbean.
A defining feature of Vanuatu’s program is speed. Citizenship and passport issuance typically occur within 2–4 months, with no requirements for residence, language proficiency, or personal interviews.
Minimum Investment Requirements
Vanuatu remains one of the most affordable citizenship-by-investment jurisdictions globally.
Development Support Program (DSP)
- $130,000 — single applicant
- $150,000 — married couple
- $165,000 — couple with one child
- $180,000 — family of four (two adults, two children)
- +$15,000 — each additional dependent
This option offers simplicity and predictable pricing, making it the most popular choice.
Capital Investment Immigration Plan (CIIP)
- $165,000 — base package for a family of up to four (investment into the Cocoa Development Fund)
- +$25,000 — per additional dependent
Although CIIP has a higher entry cost, it can be advantageous for certain family structures, particularly larger households.
Due Diligence and Mandatory Fees
All applicants are subject to background checks conducted by the Vanuatu Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU).
- Due diligence fee: $5,500 (mandatory)
Biometrics and Oath of Allegiance
Applicants must complete biometric enrollment and swear an oath of allegiance. This can be done at approved locations:
- Dubai: $3,000 per applicant
- Hong Kong, New Caledonia, or Vanuatu: $1,000 per applicant
Dubai is the most commonly chosen location due to convenience and accessibility.
Eligible Family Members
Vanuatu offers one of the more inclusive family policies among CBI programs. A single application may include:
- A legally married spouse
- Financially dependent children up to 28 years old
- Adult children with disabilities
- Parents aged 50+ who are financially dependent
This structure enables entire families — including multiple generations — to obtain citizenship under one application.
Value Delivered Beyond the Cost
1. Extremely Fast Approval
With approvals possible in as little as 60 days, Vanuatu citizenship is among the fastest worldwide — ideal for urgent mobility or contingency planning.
2. Strong Travel Access
Citizens enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 90+ countries, including:
- Singapore
- Hong Kong
- Malaysia
- Israel
- Montenegro
- Fiji, Samoa, and Tonga
- Many Caribbean and Pacific nations
While Schengen access was suspended in 2022, discussions to expand travel privileges remain ongoing.
3. Highly Favorable Tax Environment
Vanuatu offers one of the most attractive tax systems globally:
- No personal income tax
- No capital gains tax
- No inheritance or wealth tax
- No tax on worldwide income
This makes the country particularly appealing to entrepreneurs and internationally mobile individuals.
4. Privacy and Confidentiality
Citizenship acquisitions are not publicly disclosed, and applicant information remains strictly confidential.
5. Dual Citizenship Permitted
Applicants are not required to renounce their existing nationality.
6. Reliable “Plan B” Citizenship
A Vanuatu passport provides an additional layer of security, emergency travel flexibility, and long-term personal and financial resilience.
Is Vanuatu Citizenship a Worthwhile Investment?
For investors prioritising:
- Speed of approval
- Affordable entry costs
- Family-friendly inclusion
- Tax efficiency
- Simple and predictable processing
Vanuatu offers exceptional value compared to many competing programs.
Final Assessment
Vanuatu’s Citizenship by Investment program remains one of the most efficient and competitively priced second passport solutions available today. Its combination of rapid processing, inclusive family policies, and substantial tax advantages makes it an attractive option for individuals seeking enhanced global mobility, asset protection, and long-term security.
Whether your objective is travel freedom, financial optimization, or establishing a reliable contingency plan, Vanuatu delivers a balanced, cost-effective citizenship solution with minimal complexity.