Two government-approved pathways to your Vanuatu passport. Biometric enrolment available in Dubai — no need to travel to Vanuatu.
Vanuatu's citizenship by investment framework offers two distinct programmes, both administered by the Vanuatu Citizenship Commission and backed by national legislation. Since 2017, thousands of high-net-worth individuals from the UAE and worldwide have 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. As a UAE resident, you benefit from Dubai being one of only three authorised biometric centres worldwide — making the entire process seamless without leaving the Emirates.
The DSP is Vanuatu's flagship citizenship by investment option and the most popular choice among UAE-based applicants. It requires a one-time, non-refundable contribution to Vanuatu's national development fund, supporting infrastructure, education, healthcare, and disaster recovery.
With minimum investments starting at just $130,000 for a single applicant, the DSP represents one of the most affordable CBI programmes in the world. Processing typically takes 45 to 60 days — the fastest CBI programme globally.
There are no language tests, educational requirements, or mandatory residency. Your only in-person requirement is a single biometric enrolment appointment, conveniently available at the authorised Dubai centre.
The CIIP 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.
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 — potentially the most cost-effective CBI programme in the world.
The CIIP offers the same citizenship rights, passport validity, and processing timeline as the DSP. Family pricing 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 decide.
| 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 |
| 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 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.
Legitimate source of investment funds must be documented. Verified during the due diligence process.
Our Dubai-based citizenship experts will analyse your situation, compare both options, and recommend the best pathway to your Vanuatu passport.