Vanuatu remains one of the fastest and most efficient citizenship-by-investment programs in the world. With no language tests, no mandatory visits, and approvals granted in under two months, it appeals to global entrepreneurs, high-net-worth individuals, and those seeking greater international mobility.
But how much does it actually cost in 2025? This guide outlines the total Vanuatu citizenship cost, passport issuance fees, and how prices compare with other CBI programs.
Current Fees for Vanuatu Citizenship via the DSP Program
Vanuatu’s Development Support Program (DSP) allows foreign nationals to obtain full citizenship through a non-refundable contribution to the country’s government. The rates are fixed and published annually by authorities and licensed agents. In 2025, the minimum investment for a single applicant remains USD 130,000.
This figure includes the government contribution but does not cover other administrative and legal costs. Here is a breakdown of typical pricing structures:
- Single applicant: USD 130,000
- Married couple: USD 150,000
- Family of four (two adults + two children under 18): approx. USD 180,000
For each additional dependent, fees increase. Larger families should request a tailored quote to understand the full Vanuatu citizenship cost based on age, family relationship, and application structure.
How Much Does the Passport Cost After Citizenship Approval?
After receiving approval for citizenship, applicants must complete a simple final step: the issuance of a Vanuatu passport. Unlike many countries, Vanuatu does not include this in the citizenship contribution. The passport fee is paid separately and is much lower in comparison.
As of 2025, the Vanuatu passport cost is approximately USD 250 per person. This includes:
- Passport issuance fee
- Biometric registration
- Courier delivery to your address
Passports are valid for 10 years for adults and 5 years for minors. Renewal is straightforward and handled either through the issuing office or via authorized consular agents abroad. Some agents may include this fee in their service package, while others will invoice it separately.
Costs for Individual vs. Family Applicants
The overall expense for obtaining citizenship in Vanuatu varies depending on how many people are included in the application and their relationship to the main applicant. Spouses and dependent children can be included under the same submission, and in some cases, even dependent parents or siblings may be eligible.
Families benefit from cost efficiency due to tiered pricing. A couple applying together pays significantly less than two individuals applying separately. Likewise, children under 18 are less expensive to include than adult dependents.
However, all applicants must undergo due diligence screening, which is included in the main cost but may generate additional administrative review in complex cases.
Each person also receives their own passport, so the final Vanuatu passport cost will multiply per family member.
How It Compares with Caribbean CBI Programs
When compared with other citizenship-by-investment programs, Vanuatu remains one of the fastest and most cost-effective. Caribbean programs such as those in Dominica, Antigua and Barbuda, or St. Kitts & Nevis start at similar investment levels, typically around USD 100,000 for a single applicant.
However, these countries often have:
- Longer processing times (up to 4–6 months)
- Mandatory in-person interviews or travel
- Higher costs for family packages
Vanuatu’s advantage lies in its 30–60 day approval time and minimal documentation requirements. Furthermore, the entire process is remote, including the citizenship oath (conducted via video conference).
Some Caribbean countries also impose real estate investment requirements or hold funds in escrow, while Vanuatu’s DSP is a direct government contribution — simpler and faster.
Tips: How to Avoid Overpaying and Choose a Reliable Agent
Vanuatu’s CBI program is legitimate and government-backed, but like any international service, applicants should take precautions. Working with an accredited agent ensures that you avoid hidden markups or invalid claims.
Here are key tips to protect your investment:
- Verify that your agent is licensed and listed with Vanuatu’s Financial Intelligence Unit or official DSP portal.
- Ask for a full quote upfront, including all taxes, due diligence, and service fees.
- Avoid “discount offers” or non-refundable deposits without contracts.
- Request copies of the official DSP pricing structure — like the downloadable PDF outlining the current Vanuatu citizenship cost.
Remember: the true value lies not just in price, but in efficiency, legal transparency, and post-citizenship support. A qualified agent will help you gather documents, manage payments, and track your file from start to finish.
Vanuatu remains a top-tier destination for those seeking fast-track second citizenship at a fair cost. The Vanuatu passport cost is low, the government fees are predictable, and the timeline is among the shortest in the world.
In 2025, this combination of affordability, efficiency, and flexibility continues to make Vanuatu one of the most competitive options on the global CBI market.