How to Apply for Vanuatu Citizenship from Dubai

A streamlined process from consultation to passport delivery. Biometric enrolment available in Dubai — no need to travel to Vanuatu.

Overview

A Process Designed for Efficiency

The Vanuatu citizenship by investment application process has been refined for speed and simplicity. As a UAE resident, you benefit from having one of only three authorised biometric centres worldwide located in Dubai. Our Dubai-based team provides end-to-end support at every stage — from your initial consultation through to passport delivery at your UAE address. Most applicants receive their Vanuatu passport within 60 to 90 days of submitting a complete application.

Step by Step

Your Complete Application Journey

Each step is managed by our experienced team to ensure a smooth and timely process from start to finish.

1

Initial Consultation & Eligibility Assessment

🕑 1-2 Days

Your journey begins with a free, confidential consultation with our Dubai-based citizenship advisors. During this session, we will:

  • Assess your eligibility for the Vanuatu CBI programme based on your nationality, background, and financial profile
  • Recommend the most suitable programme — Development Support Program (DSP) or Capital Investment Immigration Plan (CIIP)
  • Provide a detailed, transparent cost breakdown with no hidden fees
  • Explain the full timeline and what to expect at each stage
  • Answer all your questions about Vanuatu citizenship, tax benefits, and visa-free travel

Consultations can be held in person in Dubai, by video call, or by phone — whichever you prefer. There is no obligation or cost at this stage.

2

Document Collection & Preparation

🕑 2-3 Weeks

Our legal team guides you through gathering and preparing all required documentation. We handle translations, certifications, and ensure every document meets the Vanuatu Citizenship Commission's requirements.

Required Document Checklist:

  • Certified colour copies of current passport (all pages)
  • Birth certificate (original or certified copy with apostille)
  • Marriage certificate (if applicable, with apostille)
  • Police clearance certificate from country of citizenship and country of residence (UAE)
  • Bank reference letter from your primary bank
  • Bank statements covering the last 6 months
  • Proof of source of funds (business ownership documents, employment contracts, investment records)
  • Medical health certificate (from an approved medical practitioner)
  • Professional CV / resume
  • Six passport-sized photographs (white background, 35mm x 45mm)
  • Completed application forms (provided by our team)
  • Proof of UAE residency (Emirates ID or UAE visa page)
  • Dependant documentation — birth certificates, school enrolment letters, or proof of financial dependency for any family members included

Our team reviews every document for accuracy and completeness before submission, minimising the risk of delays or requests for additional information.

3

Preliminary Due Diligence & Application Filing

🕑 1 Day

Once all documents are prepared and verified, we formally file your application with the Vanuatu Citizenship Commission. At this stage, the following payments are required:

  • 25% of the programme contribution — held in escrow and only released upon approval
  • $5,500 due diligence fee — per applicant, paid directly to the Vanuatu Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU)

Our team conducts a preliminary internal review before submission to ensure your application has the strongest possible chance of approval. We verify that all documents are correctly formatted, certified, and translated as required.

4

FIU Due Diligence & Government Review

🕑 2-4 Weeks

The Vanuatu Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) conducts comprehensive due diligence checks on all applicants. This includes:

  • International criminal background checks across multiple databases
  • Verification of source of funds and financial history
  • Anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing (CTF) screening
  • Cross-referencing against international sanctions lists
  • Verification of all submitted documents and references

The Vanuatu Citizenship Commission then reviews the FIU's findings along with your complete application. Initial approval is typically granted within 14 business days of submission. Our team monitors the progress and keeps you informed throughout this stage.

5

Approval, Investment Completion & Biometrics in Dubai

🕑 1-2 Weeks

Upon receiving approval from the Citizenship Commission, you proceed with the following:

  • Complete the remaining 75% of the programme contribution — transferred to the Central Bank of Vanuatu
  • Pay the biometric enrolment fee — $3,000 per person at the authorised Dubai biometric centre
  • Attend a single in-person appointment in Dubai for biometric enrolment (fingerprints, photograph) and the Oath of Allegiance ceremony

The Dubai biometric centre is one of only three authorised locations worldwide, making this step exceptionally convenient for UAE residents. There is absolutely no need to travel to Vanuatu. The appointment typically takes less than one hour and is scheduled at a time that suits you.

Your spouse and any dependants included in the application must also attend the biometric appointment in Dubai. Our team coordinates all scheduling and accompanies you to the appointment.

6

Passport Issuance & Delivery to Your UAE Address

🕑 2-4 Weeks

After biometric enrolment and completion of all payments, the Vanuatu Citizenship Commission issues your official Certificate of Citizenship and 10-year Vanuatu passport. Your passport is then securely delivered directly to your address in the UAE.

  • Full Vanuatu citizenship with all associated rights and privileges
  • 10-year passport for each approved applicant (renewable)
  • Immediate visa-free access to 118+ countries and territories
  • Dual citizenship fully permitted — no need to renounce your existing nationality
  • Secure courier delivery to your home or office in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or anywhere in the UAE

Our support does not end at passport delivery. We provide ongoing assistance with passport renewal, travel advice, and any questions you may have as a new Vanuatu citizen.

Timeline

Application Timeline Summary

A clear overview of each stage and its expected duration. Total processing time from initial consultation to passport delivery is typically 60 to 90 days.

Stage Description Duration
Step 1 Initial Consultation & Eligibility Assessment 1-2 Days
Step 2 Document Collection & Preparation 2-3 Weeks
Step 3 Preliminary Due Diligence & Application Filing 1 Day
Step 4 FIU Due Diligence & Government Review 2-4 Weeks
Step 5 Approval, Investment Completion & Biometrics in Dubai 1-2 Weeks
Step 6 Passport Issuance & Delivery to UAE 2-4 Weeks
Total Estimated Timeline 60-90 Days

Ready to Start Your Application from Dubai?

Book a free, confidential consultation with our Dubai-based citizenship advisors. We will assess your eligibility, recommend the best programme, and guide you through every step of the process.

Disclaimer: This website is unofficial, not affiliated to or endorsed by Government(s) or official sources. We assist clients with document preparation and filing, legal advice, housing, real estate, taxation, investment advice. All program information including services / forms can be obtained from Government official website.
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