Introduction
Vanuatu's Development & Support Program (DSP) offers foreign investors the opportunity to acquire citizenship in this South Pacific nation. Launched in January 2017, it stands as the sole Citizenship By Investment (CBI) Program in the Asia & Pacific Region. This overview provides insights into the key benefits, investment requirements, application process, and frequently asked questions about Vanuatu Citizenship.
Key Benefits of Vanuatu Citizenship
- Visa-Free Travel:
- Access to 130 countries, including the Schengen Area, UK, Russia, and the United Arab Emirates.
- Long-term Visas in Australia:
- Right to apply for multiple-entry and long-term visas in Australia.
- Quick Application Process:
- Applications processed in as little as 45 days.
- Flexibility in Dependents:
- Inclusion of spouse, dependent children up to 25, and parents over 50 in the application.
Vanuatu Citizenship Investment Requirement
Under the Vanuatu DSP, applicants are required to make a one-off non-refundable contribution to the Government of Vanuatu. The contribution amounts are as follows:
- Single Applicants:
- $130,000 USD
- Married Couple:
- $150,000 USD
- Family of 3:
- $165,000 USD
- Family of 4:
- $180,000 USD
- Family of 5:
- $190,000 USD
- Family of 6:
- $200,000 USD
- Additional Dependents:
- $15,000 USD per person
Other Fees and Costs Associated with the Application
In addition to the government donation, applicants need to cover a non-refundable fee of $5,000 USD for due diligence checks to the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) of the Vanuatu government. This fee is crucial for international background checks, a prerequisite for the citizenship application. The overall fee also includes costs for an Oath Ceremony, which can take place in various locations.
Eligibility and Requirements
- Age and Net Worth:
- The main applicant must be at least 18 years old and have a net worth of at least $250,000 USD.
- Health Requirements:
- All applicants, including dependents, must be in good health, proven by a submitted medical certificate.
Application Process (Overview)
Step 1: Vanuatu Citizenship Initial Consultation
- Confirm eligibility for the DSP through an initial consultation.
Step 2: FIU Due Diligence Checks - Pre-approval Stage (1 week)
- Provide notarized passport copy, CV, dependents' passport copy, birth certificate, and $5,000 for due diligence checks.
Step 3: Prepare All Documentation to Submit with Your Application (1 week+)
- Assistance in preparing all necessary documents, certified and translated into English.
Step 4: Government Donation (1-2 Weeks)
- Transfer funds for the government donation after FIU clearance.
Step 5: Vanuatu Committee Screening (2-4 weeks)
- The committee screens documents, approves applications, and issues Citizenship Certificates.
Step 7: Citizenship Ceremony & Passport Collection (2-3 weeks)
- Attend a citizenship ceremony, either in person or online, and collect passports.
Required Documents for Main Applicant
- Passport Copy (Notarized)
- Police Clearance Certificate
- Curriculum Vitae (C.V)
- Birth Certificate
- National ID
- Proof Of Address
- Passport Photo
- Banking Reference
- Medical Certificate
- Proof of Assets (Report)
- University/College Certificates
- Bank Statements (the last 6 months)
- Passport Application Form
- Proof of Company Ownership (if applicable)
FAQ
1. Full Citizenship:
- Investors obtain full citizenship, not honorary, with the same rights as someone born in Vanuatu.
2. Restricted Nationalities:
- Nationals from Iran, Iraq, Syria, Yemen, and North Korea are generally prohibited. Exceptions on a case-by-case basis for those living overseas for more than 5 years.
3. Unsuccessful Application:
- Full government donation refund in case of rejection, other fees non-refundable.
4. Travel for Ceremony:
- Option to conduct ceremonies online or in consulates, with passports delivered via courier.
5. Passing Citizenship Down:
- Citizenship can be passed down to future grandchildren under specific conditions.
Vanuatu's DSP provides a streamlined process for acquiring citizenship, offering global mobility and access to a network of countries through visa-free travel arrangements.
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