FAQ about Vanuatu Citizenship - AJC Vanuatu (local trusted partner)

Last update : November 2024

As a trusted local partner and through our years of experience,

we have compiled for you a list of FAQ about Vanuatu Citizenship.

Can I keep my current Citizenship and become a Vanuatu Citizen?

Yes, Vanuatu accept double citizenship.

What are the main requirements to become a Vanuatu Citizen?

The main requirements are as follow: The main applicant must demonstrate assets in his or her name of over US$250,000, he/she must be at least 18 years old, he/she must pay the contribution (+ extra fees) for and have no criminal record.

Other requirements may apply.

Can I submit the application myself?

No, only designated agents can submit an application on your behalf.

Can I fill the application online?

No, but we will review all documents sent by email and confirm they are in order before submitting them to the Citizenship Commission. Certified scanned documents are accepted. We do not need the original documents to be sent over.

How long is the application process?

The total application process may take 8 to 10 weeks upon receipt of all required documents after each step.

Do I need to submit my application in English?

Yes, the Citizenship Commission only accept documents in English. Any required documents will have to be translated into English and the translation being certified.

How many members of my family can be included in my application?

All your direct dependents can be included for an additional fee, meaning: the main applicant’s parents, the main applicant’s spouse’s parents, any dependent children between 18 and 25 years old and any child aged less than 18 years old (after the first 2 ones which are already included in the family of 4 application fee).

Do I have to go to Vanuatu to apply for citizenship?

You do not need to come to Vanuatu during the application process.

However, it is required to travel to Vanuatu for the issuance of the passport as the Immigration office will collect the Applicant(s) biometric data and ID photo. Children under 18 years old will also need to be present for the issuance of their passports.

What is a police certificate?

A police certificate is a document stating that you do not have a criminal record. It can be named “Certificate of no criminal record” or “Police clearance report” or other names depending on where you live.

Does Vanuatu Citizenship expire?

No. You and your family will have citizenship for life and it will be passed on to your kids and their kids. However, you will have to renew your passport every 10 years.

Can I change my name?

No, it is no longer possible to proceed with a change of name after obtaining Vanuatu Citizenship since June 2022.

Are there countries excluded from the program?

Yes. Any citizen of the following countries are excluded from the program :

Iran
Iraq
North Korea
Syria
Yemen

This country list is subject to change.

Exemptions: The commission may accept applications from restricted countries if the applicant shows that he or she has not resided in the restricted country for the past 5 years and provides evidence of permanent residency abroad.

Ready to start your application process?

More information

For more information about the process and a list our required documents, you can download our Development Support Program (DSP) brochure.

You can also consult our page: Vanuatu Citizenship

or go directly through the government website citizenship section.