Citizenship of Vanuatu for Europeans: Benefits, Cost and Process in 2025

The key advantages attracting citizens of European countries remain the complete confidentiality of the process, the possibility of including the entire family in the application, and the absence of requirements for residence or visiting the country to obtain citizenship. The entire process, from submitting documents to taking the oath, is organised entirely remotely. Despite the recent loss of visa-free access to Schengen Agreement countries, the Vanuatu passport retains its value, offering visa-free entry to numerous countries, including important business hubs such as Hong Kong and Singapore. This makes it an effective tool for asset diversification, global mobility, and tax planning amidst growing economic and geopolitical instability.

Pros and cons of Vanuatu citizenship

An objective analysis of the Vanuatu citizenship program reveals both strengths and certain limitations. Understanding this balance allows investors to make informed decisions aligned with their long-term goals.

The Vanuatu citizenship program stands out thanks to its strong advantages in taxation, speed, confidentiality, and convenience. As a jurisdiction with zero taxation for individuals, Vanuatu offers a uniquely attractive fiscal environment: there are no taxes on foreign-earned personal income, capital gains, inheritance, or gifts, which enables entrepreneurs and investors to preserve and grow their capital while restructuring assets to minimise their tax burden. Another key feature is the exceptional speed of the process, as obtaining citizenship typically takes no more than two months from the submission of the application to receiving the passport, making it one of the fastest programs worldwide and particularly valuable for those who need a quick solution for travel, business opportunities, or personal security. Equally important is the high level of confidentiality, since the government does not disclose the names of new citizens or share information with other states, which ensures privacy and protection of personal data. Finally, the entire procedure can be completed remotely, including the oath-taking, eliminating the need for applicants to travel to Vanuatu and providing maximum flexibility for busy investors.

At the same time, there are certain disadvantages that must be taken into account. The main drawback is the limited list of visa-free countries compared to the passports of Caribbean countries or Malta. The most significant restriction has been the cancellation of visa-free travel with the countries of the European Union and the United Kingdom. In addition, a Vanuatu passport does not provide visa-free access to the United States of America. For investors whose business or personal interests are closely tied to these regions, this factor may prove decisive. The country’s economy also significantly depends on the citizenship-by-investment program, which carries potential risks to its stability in the future.

Citizenship of Vanuatu for citizens of the United Kingdom: Strategy after Brexit

After leaving the European Union, citizens of the United Kingdom faced new realities associated with restrictions on freedom of movement and conducting business in EU countries. The British passport, once one of the most powerful in the world, has lost some of its privileges, prompting many investors and entrepreneurs to seek alternative solutions. In this context, a second passport, particularly the passport of Vanuatu, gains value as a strategic tool for restoring global mobility and ensuring tax sovereignty. It becomes a “Plan B,” allowing individuals to bypass bureaucratic obstacles and maintain flexibility in managing personal and corporate finances.

Tax planning and financial sovereignty for British investors

For British investors accustomed to a complex tax system with high rates on capital gains and inheritance, Vanuatu’s fiscal policy offers extensive opportunities. Obtaining citizenship allows for the creation of a structure for effective tax planning.

Here are the key aspects that attract the British:

• Absence of capital gains tax: The sale of assets such as shares, real estate, or businesses is not taxed in Vanuatu, which contrasts with the British rate reaching 28%.
• Zero inheritance tax: In the United Kingdom, inheritance tax can reach up to 40% of the value of assets exceeding the established threshold. In Vanuatu, this tax is absent, allowing capital to be transferred to future generations without hindrance.
• Financial confidentiality: Vanuatu offers a high level of protection for banking and financial information, which is important for investors seeking to safeguard their assets from external control.

The use of Vanuatu citizenship as part of a broader strategy allows Britons not only to reduce their tax burden but also to achieve a greater degree of financial independence from the fiscal policy of the United Kingdom.

Visa-free access to Singapore, Hong Kong, and Commonwealth countries

Despite the loss of access to the Schengen Zone, the Vanuatu passport retains strategic value for British businessmen due to visa-free access to key financial centres in Asia. The ability to freely visit Hong Kong (up to 90 days) and Singapore (up to 30 days) without a visa is a significant advantage for conducting international business, opening bank accounts, and participating in investment projects. These jurisdictions serve as gateways to Asian markets. Furthermore, Vanuatu is a member of the Commonwealth of Nations, which facilitates travel and interaction with other member countries, maintaining certain historical ties and privileges familiar to UK citizens.

Comparison of visa-free opportunities of UK and Vanuatu passports in 2025

After Brexit and the change in Vanuatu’s visa policy by the EU, a comparative analysis of the possibilities of the two passports becomes especially relevant. It clearly demonstrates which specific gaps in mobility the Vanuatu passport can fill for a citizen of the United Kingdom.

The process of obtaining for the British: From documents to a passport without a visit to Vanuatu

The procedure for obtaining Vanuatu citizenship for British citizens is fully remote and optimised for maximum convenience of the investor. The entire process is coordinated through a government-accredited agent.

The main stages are as follows:

01

Preliminary check (Due Diligence)

The candidate provides a copy of their passport and a certificate of no criminal record for an initial check by the Financial Intelligence Unit of Vanuatu (FIU). This stage takes 2-4 days and allows the elimination of high-risk candidates.

02

Preparation of the main package of documents

After a successful preliminary check, the collection of the full set of documents begins. For Britons, this includes notarised copies of passports, birth and marriage certificates, a medical certificate, reference letters from a bank and a solicitor, as well as proof of funds’ origin. All documents must be translated into English.

03

Submission of the application and payment of the investment

The completed package of documents together with the application is submitted to the Citizenship Commission. After receiving principle approval, the investor transfers the full investment amount to a special government account.

04

Taking the oath and receiving the passport

The final step is taking the oath of allegiance to Vanuatu. This procedure is conducted remotely via videoconference with the participation of the oath commissioner. After this, a naturalisation certificate and passport are issued, which are delivered by courier service to any address in the world.

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Passport of Vanuatu for citizens of Germany

Citizens of Germany, one of the strongest economies in the world, are increasingly considering the possibility of obtaining a second citizenship. The reasons for this lie in high taxes, strict financial control, and the desire to diversify personal and business risks. A Vanuatu passport offers German entrepreneurs and investors a tool for international tax optimisation and an increase in the level of confidentiality, which is difficult to achieve within the rigid regulatory environment of Germany and the EU.

Is dual citizenship Germany-Vanuatu legal? Analysis of the 2025 rules

In 2025, Germany underwent a liberalisation of citizenship legislation. The new law, which came into force, significantly simplified the procedure for obtaining dual citizenship. Previously, German citizens acquiring a passport from a country outside the EU (such as Vanuatu) generally had to renounce their German citizenship. Now, this requirement has been abolished. German citizens can obtain a second citizenship without needing to obtain special permission to retain their German citizenship (Beibehaltungsgenehmigung) and without the risk of losing it automatically. This change has made programs like Vanuatu’s program significantly more attractive for Germans by removing the main legal obstacle.

Tax optimisation for German entrepreneurs and investors

The tax system of Germany is characterised by high rates for both individuals and corporations. The personal income tax can reach 45%, and a “solidarity tax” is also levied. For entrepreneurs and investors, Vanuatu citizenship opens up opportunities for legally reducing the tax burden.

Methods of optimisation include:

• Change of tax residency: By transferring the centre of vital interests from Germany, one can cease to be a German tax resident and take advantage of Vanuatu’s zero rates on global income.
• The use of offshore structures: Registration of an International Business Company (IBC) in Vanuatu with a passport of this country allows conducting business with minimal tax burden and simplified reporting.
• Inheritance tax protection: In Germany, inheritance tax is progressive and can be significant. Vanuatu does not have such a tax, which simplifies the transfer of assets to heirs.

The process of submitting documents: Requirements for translation and apostille for Germans

To apply for Vanuatu citizenship, German citizens need to carefully prepare a package of documents. All official documents issued in Germany (birth certificates, marriage certificates, police clearance certificates) must undergo a legalisation procedure for use abroad.

The process includes the following steps:

1. Obtaining the original document: It is necessary to have the originals of all required documents at hand.
2. Apostillisation: Since both Germany and Vanuatu are participants of the Hague Convention of 1961, for the legalisation of documents it is sufficient to affix an apostille. In Germany, the apostille is affixed by competent authorities (for example, regional courts – Landgericht) on the originals of documents.
3. Notarial translation: After apostille, the documents must be translated into English by a sworn translator.
4. Notarial certification of copies: For submission, notarially certified copies of passports and other identity documents are required.

Careful compliance with these requirements ensures that the documents will be accepted by the authorities of Vanuatu without delays.

Citizenship of Vanuatu for citizens of France

The high tax burden in France, especially for wealthy citizens and successful entrepreneurs, is one of the main incentives for seeking a second citizenship. The progressive income tax scale, wealth tax (IFI, on real estate), and high social contributions encourage the French to look for jurisdictions with a more favourable fiscal climate. A Vanuatu passport in this context serves as an effective means for asset protection and personal financial optimisation.

The cost of investment for a family is slightly higher than for a single applicant, which makes family submission economically advantageous. For example, under the DSP (Development Support Program), the donation for a single applicant is $130,000, while for a family of four it is $180,000. This allows securing the future of children by providing them with freedom of movement and the financial benefits of second citizenship.

What documents are required for underage children

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  Notarised copy of the birth certificate: The document must be apostilled and translated into English;

• 

  Notarised copy of the passport: If the child has a passport;

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  Medical certificate: Confirmation of general health condition;

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  Certificate from an educational institution: For school-age children, confirming their status as a student;

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  Passport photographs: Eight photographs of the established format.

When including underage children in the application, a separate set of documents must be provided for each child. The requirements for them are less strict than for adult applicants but require careful preparation.

For children over 12 years old, a certificate of no criminal record may also be required. All documents issued in France must be apostilled in the relevant Court of Appeal (Cour d’appel).

Citizenship of Vanuatu for citizens of Italy

Italian entrepreneurs are showing a growing interest in economic citizenship programs as a tool for expanding their business beyond the European Union. Complex bureaucracy, economic instability, and the desire to enter new markets in Asia and Oceania make the Vanuatu passport an attractive alternative. It offers not only tax advantages but also greater operational flexibility for conducting international activities.

Expanding business beyond the EU: New markets with a Vanuatu passport

For Italian businesses focused on export and international operations, a Vanuatu passport opens new horizons. Visa-free access to Hong Kong and Singapore simplifies establishing connections with Asian partners, participating in exhibitions, and conducting negotiations. The opportunity to register an International Business Company (IBC) in Vanuatu allows for the creation of an efficient structure for trade, intellectual property management, or investments, while minimising bureaucratic costs and tax obligations typical for Italy.

Opening accounts and conducting international business: Opportunities and limitations

One of the practical advantages of a Vanuatu passport is the possibility of opening bank accounts outside the EU. However, there are certain nuances here. In recent years, global banks have tightened compliance (AML/KYC) procedures, and a Vanuatu passport alone may not be sufficient to open an account in a top-tier European or Asian bank.

Financial institutions are increasingly requiring confirmation of genuine ties to the country of citizenship, such as tax residency, an address, or business interests in Vanuatu. Nevertheless, a Vanuatu passport significantly simplifies the opening of accounts in offshore jurisdictions in the Caribbean and certain banks in Asia and the Middle East. For successful international business operations, it is recommended to open a corporate account for a company registered in Vanuatu, with the beneficiary being the holder of the new passport.

Visa-free travel for a lifestyle

In addition to business advantages, the Vanuatu passport attracts Italians leading a mobile lifestyle. For digital nomads, freelancers, and simply active travellers, it provides freedom of movement across many countries in Asia, Africa, Oceania, and Latin America. The possibility of long-term visa-free stays, for example in Malaysia or the Philippines, allows for comfortable living and working in various corners of the world without being tied to the restrictions of the Italian passport outside the EU.

Comparison of the cost and conditions of the programs of Vanuatu and Malta for Italians

When choosing between citizenship programs, Italians often compare Vanuatu and Malta. Both programs have their strengths but are aimed at different purposes and budgets.

• Cost: Vanuatu is a significantly more affordable option. The minimum investment (donation) starts from $130,000. The Malta program (Citizenship by Exceptional Services) requires comprehensive investments, including a donation of €600,000-€750,000, the purchase or rental of real estate, and a charitable contribution, which brings the total amount to €1 million or more.
• Timeframes: Vanuatu offers the fastest route to citizenship — 1.5-2 months. The process in Malta takes from 12 to 36 months depending on the size of the investment.
• Access to the EU: The main advantage of Malta is the passport of an EU member state, which grants the right to live, work, and study in any country of the European Union. The Vanuatu passport does not provide this.
• Taxes: Vanuatu offers zero taxes on worldwide income. Malta operates a remittance-based taxation system, but it is more complex and requires careful planning.

For Italians seeking a fast and inexpensive second passport for global mobility (excluding the EU) and tax optimisation, Vanuatu is the optimal choice. For those for whom access to the EU is fundamentally important, Malta remains the preferred, though much more expensive, option.

Citizenship of Vanuatu for citizens of Spain: Optimisation of cost and life

Spanish citizens facing economic difficulties, including high youth unemployment and bureaucratic obstacles for businesses, are also showing interest in the Vanuatu program. For them, the key factors are the affordable cost of the program, the speed of obtaining results, and the opportunity to optimise personal expenses and the financial future of their family in a more stable and predictable jurisdiction.

Costs

Requirements for financial solvency for a family

The Vanuatu program is clearly structured for family applicants. For a family of four (for example, spouses and two children under 18 years old), there are two main investment options.

Here is the cost breakdown by programs:

Capital Investment Immigration Plan

Development Support Program

Application Timeline

3-4 Months

2-3 Months

Program Fees

USD

USD

One applicant

155 000

130 000

Married couple

155 000

150 000

A family of 3 people

155 000

165 000

A family of 4 people

155 000

180 000

Additional dependent

25 000

25 000

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Citizenship of Vanuatu for citizens of the Netherlands: Internationalism and business

Dutch society is traditionally open to the world, and the economy is heavily focused on international trade. However, high taxes and complex regulations encourage entrepreneurs from the Netherlands to seek alternative jurisdictions for conducting business and protecting assets. The globalisation of business also demands the globalisation of personal status, and in this context, a second passport becomes not a luxury but a working tool.

Additional passport for a resident of the Netherlands

For a Dutch entrepreneur, a second passport is primarily a tool for mobility and diversification. Dutch legislation is quite strict regarding dual citizenship, requiring renunciation of the previous citizenship in most cases. However, there are exceptions, for example, in the case of marriage to a citizen of another country or if renunciation of the first citizenship is impossible. Obtaining a Vanuatu passport requires careful legal planning to avoid losing Dutch citizenship. Nevertheless, the advantages — asset protection in a jurisdiction without capital and inheritance taxes, as well as access to new markets — often outweigh the risks.

The fastest way to obtain a second citizenship: Process for the Dutch in 2 months

A unique advantage of the Vanuatu program is its speed. For Dutch businessmen who value time and efficiency, the opportunity to obtain a second passport in just 45-60 days is a decisive factor. This allows for a prompt response to changing economic conditions, the quick establishment of overseas companies and bank accounts, and the benefits of the new status without years of waiting, as is the case with most other programs.

List of documents and contacts of a notary in the Netherlands for certification

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  Copies of passports (notarised)

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  Birth and marriage certificates (with apostille)

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  Certificate of no criminal record (Verklaring Omtrent het Gedrag – VOG) with an apostille

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  Medical certificate

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  Recommendation letters from the bank and the lawyer/accountant

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  Confirmation of source of funds

Full Documents

The package of documents for a citizen of the Netherlands is standard but requires special attention to the legalisation procedure. All documents issued in the Netherlands must be apostilled.

For certifying copies and signing forms, it is necessary to contact a Dutch notary (notaris). An apostille on documents, in turn, is affixed at district courts (Rechtbank). It is important to ensure that the notary and the court have correctly processed all documents for international use.

Passport of Vanuatu for citizens of Sweden

Citizens of Sweden, one of the countries with the highest tax burden in the world, show interest in Vanuatu citizenship primarily to reduce fiscal pressure and protect their capital. High income taxes, as well as potential wealth and inheritance taxes, motivate Swedish investors to seek more favourable tax havens.

CIIP Program: Return of $50,000 in 4 years

For Swedish investors who value not only results but also the efficiency of investments, the CIIP (Capital Investment Immigration Plan) program is particularly attractive. It allows for not just a donation but a partially refundable investment. The investor contributes approximately $155,000 to one of the government-approved funds (for example, in the development of coconut oil production or the coffee industry). Out of this amount, $50,000 is refundable after 4-5 years without interest. This significantly reduces the final “net” cost of citizenship to just over $100,000, making the program one of the most competitive in terms of price globally.

Visa-free destinations for Norwegian and Swedish businessmen

For Scandinavian entrepreneurs, whose business often has a global nature, a Vanuatu passport opens important visa-free destinations, complementing the possibilities of a Swedish or Norwegian passport. The key points of attraction are:

• Asian financial centres: Hong Kong and Singapore for business, banking operations, and investments.
• Russia: An important direction for business in the fields of energy, technology, and trade.
• Commonwealth countries: Simplified access to many countries in Africa and the Caribbean for seeking new markets and opportunities.
• Israel: An important hub for technological startups and innovations.

This geography of trips allows for the effective management of international projects without visa delays.

Citizenship of Vanuatu for Finns

Finnish citizens value the Vanuatu program for opportunities in tax optimisation and a high level of confidentiality. The Finnish taxation system, although fair, is complex and includes inheritance and gift taxes. Vanuatu offers the complete opposite — simplicity and the absence of direct taxes.

Zero inheritance taxes

In Finland, inheritance tax is progressive and depends on the degree of kinship and the amount of inheritance. For large fortunes, it can be significant. In Vanuatu, inheritance tax is completely absent. This allows Finnish families to plan the transfer of assets to the next generation without losses, ensuring the preservation of family capital. This is especially relevant for owners of family businesses and large portfolio investors.

Reporting in Vero Skatti: Is it necessary to declare a Vanuatu passport?

The Finnish Tax Administration (Vero Skatto) requires tax residents of the country to declare their worldwide income. Obtaining a second passport from Vanuatu in itself does not create tax obligations and does not require a special declaration. However, if a Finnish citizen changes their tax residency and ceases to be a resident of Finland, they are obliged to notify the tax authorities about this. Income received after the change of residency will no longer be subject to taxation in Finland. It is important to emphasise that simply obtaining a second passport is not sufficient to terminate tax residency; it is necessary to actually sever close ties with Finland (residence, family, economic interests).

Visa requirements: Where can you travel without a visa from Helsinki?

With a Vanuatu passport, a resident of Helsinki can travel visa-free to numerous countries outside the EU. For example, one can take a direct flight to Singapore or Hong Kong for a business meeting. Many exotic destinations in Oceania, the Caribbean, and Africa are also open for visa-free trips, which expands opportunities for travel and leisure.

The process for Finns: From application to receiving a passport

The process of obtaining citizenship for Finns is identical to the standard procedure and takes 1.5-2 months. It is completely remote. The key point is the proper preparation of documents.

Consular legalisation of documents: Apostille for Finnish certificatesAll official documents issued in Finland (e.g., extracts from the DVV population registration system) must be legalised for use in Vanuatu. Since Finland is a participant of the Hague Convention, the procedure is simplified to the affixing of an apostille. In Finland, apostilles on documents are issued by the Digital and Population Data Agency (Digi- ja väestötietovirasto). After apostillisation, the document must be translated into English.

Vanuatu passport for Danes

The high tax burden in Denmark, one of the highest in the world, is the main reason why Danish entrepreneurs and wealthy individuals seek alternative citizenships. A Vanuatu passport offers a radical solution to this problem by creating a “tax-free” status.

Tax efficiency: Zero-Tax for Danish businessmen

The comparison of the tax systems of Denmark and Vanuatu reveals a striking contrast. In Denmark, the progressive income tax rate can exceed 55%. In Vanuatu, it is zero. For a Danish businessman who can change tax residency, this means colossal savings and the opportunity to reinvest the saved funds into business development. Vanuatu citizenship allows for legally structuring income in such a way that it does not fall under Danish taxation.

Accelerated process for Danes: 45 days to a passport

For Danish investors accustomed to efficiency and speed, the Vanuatu program offers a unique opportunity to obtain citizenship in record time — up to 45 days. The expedited process is made possible by the streamlined work of Vanuatu’s government bodies and the expertise of accredited agents. Quick application approval and prompt passport issuance allow the investor to immediately begin enjoying all the benefits of their new status.

Your path to global freedom begins here!

Why do dozens of European investors choose Vanuatu citizenship? Because it is the fastest and most predictable way to obtain a second passport. In just 45–60 days, you will be able to take advantage of all its benefits. Do not wait for changes in legislation or price increases. Your time is the most valuable resource. Take the first step toward freedom—request the full set of documents and a cost calculation for your family by email.