Vanuatu citizenship by investment, explained without the sales pitch
What the programme costs, how long it takes, what the passport still does after the EU visa suspension, and who should choose something else. Every figure is dated and linked to its source.
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Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment in 2026: The Complete Guide
How the Vanuatu citizenship by investment programme works in 2026: the DSP and CIIP routes, who qualifies, costs, timeline, biometrics, travel limits and who it suits.
Vanuatu Passport After the EU Visa Suspension: What Changed and What Still Works
A dated timeline of how the EU and the UK removed visa-free access for Vanuatu citizens, what it means for existing passport holders, and what the Vanuatu passport still does well.
Vanuatu CBI Costs in 2026: Government Contribution, Due Diligence and Hidden Fees
What Vanuatu citizenship really costs in 2026: DSP and CIIP fund contributions by family size, the FIU fee, passports, paperwork, support and bank charges, with worked examples.
Vanuatu Citizenship Application Process Step by Step
The Vanuatu citizenship by investment application in eight steps: preliminary check, documents, filing through a designated agent, FIU due diligence, approval, biometrics, oath and passport.
Vanuatu Visa-Free Countries: The Current List and How to Read It
Where a Vanuatu passport gets you without a visa in 2026: visa-free, visa on arrival, eTA and eVisa destinations by region, permitted stays, and why Schengen and the UK are not on the list.
Vanuatu vs Dominica vs Grenada: Speed, Cost, Mobility
A side-by-side comparison of three citizenship by investment programmes in 2026: minimum contributions, family pricing, processing time, Schengen, UK and US access, and who each one suits.
Vanuatu compared with Caribbean programmes
| Vanuatu | Dominica | Grenada | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum contribution, one applicant | $130,000 | $200,000 | $235,000 |
| Typical processing | about 2-3 months | about 3-4 months | about 3-6 months |
| Schengen visa-free | No | Yes | Yes |
| Interview | No | Yes | Yes |
Published programme minimums compiled in August and September 2026. Fees are added. Full comparison: Vanuatu vs Dominica vs Grenada.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Vanuatu citizenship take?
About two to three months from filing a complete application. Document preparation and the FIU due diligence check take the longest.
How much does it cost?
Under the DSP the non-refundable contribution is $130,000 for one applicant. Through the CIIP fund a family of up to four pays $157,000, and $50,000 is returned after five years. The FIU due diligence fee is added: $5,000 under the DSP or $8,000 under the fund.
Can I travel to Europe without a visa on a Vanuatu passport?
No. The EU fully suspended visa-free travel for Vanuatu citizens from 4 February 2023, and Vanuatu is now on the EU visa list. The UK has required visas since 19 July 2023.
Do I have to live in Vanuatu?
No. There is no residence requirement before or after the grant. Biometrics are given in person in one of several cities, and the oath is taken by video call.
Can I keep my current citizenship?
Vanuatu recognises dual citizenship. Whether your current country allows it is a separate question under its own law.