Two government-approved pathways to your Vanuatu passport. Choose the programme that best suits your investment goals and family situation.
Vanuatu's citizenship by investment framework offers two distinct programmes, both administered by the Vanuatu Citizenship Commission and backed by national legislation. Since the programme's inception in 2017, thousands of high-net-worth individuals and their families have successfully obtained Vanuatu citizenship through these pathways.
Both programmes grant identical citizenship rights, including a 10-year renewable passport, visa-free access to 118+ countries, and full dual citizenship recognition. The key difference lies in the investment structure — the DSP is a straightforward non-refundable contribution, while the CIIP includes a partially redeemable investment component.
The Development Support Program is Vanuatu's flagship citizenship by investment option and the most popular choice among applicants. Launched in 2017, the DSP requires a one-time, non-refundable contribution to Vanuatu's national development fund. These funds directly support infrastructure, education, healthcare, and disaster recovery across the nation.
The DSP is designed for applicants who want the most straightforward and cost-effective path to Vanuatu citizenship. With minimum investments starting at just $130,000 for a single applicant, it represents one of the most affordable citizenship by investment programmes in the world.
Processing typically takes 45 to 60 days — making it the fastest CBI programme globally. There are no language tests, no educational requirements, and no mandatory residency period. Your only in-person requirement is a single biometric enrolment appointment.
The Capital Investment Immigration Plan is Vanuatu's newer citizenship pathway, designed for applicants who prefer a partially recoverable investment structure. The CIIP channels funds into the Cocoa Sustainable Development Fund, supporting the growth of Vanuatu's cocoa industry — a key sector of the national economy.
Under the CIIP, the total investment of $165,000 includes a $50,000 government-approved fund unit that is fully redeemable after a five-year holding period. This effectively reduces the net cost of citizenship to $115,000 — making it potentially the most cost-effective CBI programme in the world when viewed over the long term.
The CIIP offers the same citizenship rights, passport validity, and processing timeline as the DSP. The primary appeal is the investment recovery mechanism, which suits applicants who value both citizenship and a structured return on their contribution.
Family pricing under the CIIP is notably competitive — $165,000 covers a single applicant or a family of up to four. Each additional dependent beyond four costs $25,000.
Not sure which programme is right for you? Here's a detailed comparison to help you make an informed decision.
| Feature | DSP Program | CIIP Program |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Investment (Single) | $130,000 | $165,000 |
| Family of 4 | $180,000 | $165,000 |
| Extra Dependents | $15,000 each | $25,000 each |
| Investment Type | Non-refundable contribution | Contribution + redeemable fund |
| Investment Return | None | $50,000 after 5 years |
| Effective Net Cost (Single) | $130,000 | $115,000 (after 5 years) |
| Processing Time | 45-60 days | 45-60 days |
| Passport Validity | 10 years | 10 years |
| Citizenship Rights | Full citizenship | Full citizenship |
| Visa-Free Countries | 118+ | 118+ |
| Best For | Single applicants, speed-focused | Families, investment recovery |
Vanuatu's CBI programmes are open to most nationalities, subject to meeting the following eligibility criteria.
Main applicants must be between 18 and 65 years of age at the time of application.
All applicants must have no criminal record and pass comprehensive due diligence checks by the Vanuatu FIU.
Applicants must demonstrate a minimum personal or shared net worth of $250,000 USD.
Citizens of Syria, Yemen, North Korea, Iran, and Iraq face restrictions (exception for those residing abroad for 5+ years).
Applicants must be in good health. A medical certificate may be required as part of the application process.
Legitimate source of investment funds must be documented. This is verified during the due diligence process.
Our citizenship experts will analyse your situation, compare both options, and recommend the best pathway to your Vanuatu passport.