Acquire Vanuatu Citizenship and Passport
Vanuatu Citizenship Criteria
Who May Acquire Vanuatu Citizenship
Vanuatu Citizenship and Passports can be acquired through various means, primarily through the Vanuatu Development Support Program (VDSP) or through naturalization. Here's who may typically purchase Vanuatu citizenship:
High-Net-Worth Individuals
Individuals with substantial financial resources who are willing to make a significant non-refundable contribution to the Vanuatu government may purchase citizenship through the Vanuatu Development Support Program (VDSP).
Investors
Those interested in investing in approved businesses in Vanuatu may also be eligible for citizenship under the VDSP. The investment options allow for flexibility in choosing the type of investment based on individual preferences and objectives.
Entrepreneurs and Business Owners
Individuals looking to establish or expand their business interests in Vanuatu can use the VDSP as a pathway to citizenship by making investments in the local economy.
Families of Investors
The VDSP extends eligibility to family members, including spouses, children, and sometimes parents, thereby allowing for the inclusion of dependents in the citizenship application.
Naturalization of Resident Foreigners
Individuals who have been legal residents of Vanuatu for a specified period and meet the residency requirements may be eligible to apply for citizenship through naturalization. This pathway typically requires a commitment to residing in Vanuatu and contributing to the local community.
Skilled Workers and Professionals
Foreign nationals employed in Vanuatu or contributing to the country's development in various capacities may become eligible for citizenship through naturalization, provided they meet the relevant criteria and demonstrate their commitment to the nation.
Spouses of Vanuatu Citizens
Foreign spouses of Vanuatu citizens may be eligible for citizenship through naturalization after meeting certain residency and other requirements, allowing for family reunification. It's important to note that both pathways to Vanuatu citizenship involve thorough due diligence checks to verify the background, character, and source of funds of applicants.
Who May Not Acquire Vanuatu Citizenship
While Vanuatu offers citizenship opportunities through various pathways such as the Vanuatu Development Support Program (VDSP) and naturalization, there are certain individuals who may not acquire Vanuatu citizenship or may face challenges in doing so. Here are some examples;
Citizens of Syria, Iraq, Iran, Yemen and North Korea
Unless they can prove they have been a resident outside these countries for more than five years may not acquire Vanuatu citizenship and passports..
Individuals with criminal records
Vanuatu typically denies citizenship to individuals with a history of serious criminal offenses. Applicants with criminal records may fail the due diligence checks conducted as part of the citizenship application process, leading to rejection.
Individuals with adverse immigration history
Those with a history of immigration violations, such as illegal entry or overstaying visas, may face difficulties in acquiring Vanuatu citizenship. Adherence to immigration laws and regulations is essential for eligibility.
Individuals deemed a threat to national security
Applicants who are considered a threat to the national security or stability of Vanuatu may be denied citizenship. This could include individuals involved in activities that undermine the country's security or interests.
Individuals with questionable source of funds
Vanuatu conducts thorough due diligence checks to ensure that applicants' funds have been obtained legally and ethically. Individuals unable to provide satisfactory evidence of the legitimate source of their investment or funds may be denied citizenship.
Individuals who do not meet residency requirements (for naturalization)
Naturalization typically requires individuals to meet residency requirements, which may vary depending on the specific criteria set by Vanuatu authorities. Failure to meet these requirements may disqualify applicants from acquiring citizenship through naturalization.
Individuals unable to fulfill investment or contribution obligations (for VDSP)
Applicants under the Vanuatu Development Support Program (VDSP) must meet specific investment or contribution obligations set by the government. Failure to fulfill these obligations may result in the denial of citizenship.
Individuals subject to sanctions or restrictions
Individuals who are subject to international sanctions or restrictions may be prohibited from acquiring citizenship in Vanuatu. Compliance with international laws and regulations is essential for eligibility.
Is Purchased Vanuatu Citizenship Hereditary
Vanuatu's citizenship laws do not automatically grant citizenship to the descendants of individuals who purchased Vanuatu citizenship through investment or donation programs.
In most cases, citizenship by investment or donation programs offered by countries, including Vanuatu, are designed to confer citizenship upon the individual applicant who meets the specified criteria, such as making a qualifying investment or donation and meeting other eligibility requirements. The citizenship acquired through such programs is typically not automatically passed down to future generations.
However, children born to Vanuatu citizen parents, regardless of how their parents acquired citizenship, may be eligible for Vanuatu citizenship by descent. The specific requirements and procedures for obtaining citizenship by descent vary depending on factors such as the child's age, parentage, and whether the child was born in Vanuatu or abroad.
Can Vanuatu Citizenship Be Revoked
Yes, Vanuatu citizenship can be taken away under certain circumstances, typically involving legal proceedings and adherence to specific laws and regulations. Here are some scenarios in which Vanuatu citizenship may be revoked or annulled:
Fraudulent Acquisition
If it is discovered that an individual obtained Vanuatu citizenship through fraudulent means or by providing false information in their citizenship application, their citizenship may be revoked. This could include cases where an applicant provided false documents, misrepresented their identity or background, or concealed relevant information. It also includes instance where, whether or not with the knowledge of the applicant, an unscrupulous agent has made false representation or not correctly followed all due diligence requirements on behalf of their client.
More Than Dual Citizenship Prohibition
Vanuatu does not allow in excess of dual citizenship, except in limited circumstances such as by descent. If an individual acquires citizenship from another country while holding Vanuatu citizenship, they may be required to renounce one of their citizenships. Failure to renounce the foreign citizenship upon request may lead to revocation of Vanuatu citizenship.
Criminal Conviction
Individuals who are convicted of serious criminal offenses may face revocation of their Vanuatu citizenship as a consequence of their actions. This could occur through legal proceedings initiated by the government or relevant authorities following the criminal conviction.
Acts Against National Interest
Individuals who engage in activities deemed to be contrary to the national interest or security of Vanuatu may have their citizenship revoked. This could include actions that pose a threat to the sovereignty, stability, or well-being of the country.
However, Vanuatu law prohibits the revocation of citizenship if it would render an individual stateless. Therefore, in cases where revocation would leave the individual without any citizenship, Vanuatu citizenship may not be taken away. It's important to note that the revocation of citizenship is typically subject to due process and legal safeguards, and individuals facing the loss of citizenship are often afforded the opportunity to appeal or challenge the decision through appropriate channels.
The specific laws and procedures governing the revocation of Vanuatu citizenship may vary, so individuals should seek guidance from legal professionals or relevant authorities for specific advice and assistance. Individuals interested in acquiring Vanuatu citizenship should seek guidance from authorised agents, such as First National, or legal advisors to understand the latest requirements and ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
