1. Strong Regulatory Positioning
In early 2025, Vanuatu introduced strict new rules for its Capital Investment Immigration Plan (CIIP). Agents were required to meet higher reporting standards, submit quarterly and annual investment data, and adopt stronger compliance checks. Many were suspended during the review. VIMB.org, operated by VIMB Services Limited, was one of the few cleared to continue.
Under the revised framework, a family of four must contribute at least USD 165,000, including a USD 60,000 direct government fee and a USD 50,000 fund investment held for five years. Agents must maintain audited financial records and document job creation and investment outcomes. “We built our systems expecting tougher oversight,” said Managing Director Daniel Agius. “When the rules came, we were ready.”
By mid-2025, the company had processed 144 CIIP applications, generating more than USD 8 million in direct revenue for Vanuatu’s government and channeling nearly USD 6.25 million into its investment fund. These numbers reflect the benefits of aligning early with regulatory changes.
2. Linking Capital to Development
The CNO Future Fund, VIMB’s key vehicle, connects citizenship contributions to tangible projects. Reports show investments in coconut plantations, copra milling, renewable energy, and rural logistics. A 30 percent equity stake in Vanuatu Basket Ltd underpins much of this activity.
In 2024, the fund expanded copra hubs across islands like Epi, Ambrym, and Malekula, funded maritime connections, and supported biosecurity programs against the Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle. Despite a 7.3 earthquake in December 2024, operations resumed quickly, producing 420,000 litres of coconut oil in the fourth quarter and supplying feed and fuel locally and abroad.
“People buying citizenship want more than travel access; they want to know their money is doing something useful,” said Agius. “Our projects are designed to have both economic and social value.”
3. Visible Economic Impact
Investment migration is often criticised for being a paper exercise, but VIMB’s reports outline outcomes beyond application counts. The company has created more than 55 jobs, opened over 65 rural bank accounts, and contracted local suppliers for construction and transport.
Upgrades to milling capacity, replanting programs targeting 100,000 seedlings, and diversification into kava, cocoa, and timber add layers to the program’s footprint. Each step is documented, with photos and metrics included in quarterly updates to the Vanuatu Citizenship Commission.
This focus on measurable outputs provides evidence that citizenship funding can contribute to development goals, helping justify the program’s existence to both local and international observers.
4. Resilience During Disruption
The December 2024 earthquake could have halted operations for months. Reports show damage to mills and refineries, yet by the first quarter of 2025, 70 percent of capacity was restored. Insurance, pre-positioned equipment, and a dispersed hub system allowed production to continue and recovery to move quickly.
The company’s logistics network- trucks, boats, and island aggregation points = proved critical. Key investments included four new seven-ton trucks and a refurbished wharf at Craig Cove to strengthen maritime links. These elements not only served the business but helped communities reconnect after infrastructure damage.
5. Transparent Reporting
Citizenship programs face global pressure for greater oversight. VIMB’s emphasis on data has made it an example within this niche market. Quarterly and annual reports include financial statements, employment numbers, investment descriptions, and forward plans.
The most recent filings detailed USD 7.76 million in direct government revenue, a USD 5.95 million net fund investment, and a plan to generate 2MW of renewable power through coconut oil by 2028. These disclosures give applicants and regulators something rare in the sector: verifiable information.
6. Strategic Diversification
Citizenship-by-investment products often rely on a single asset or fund. VIMB has broadened its focus. Beyond coconut oil and power generation, it is testing value-added timber products from old plantations, investing in food-grade oil refining to reduce imports, and establishing accredited processing centres to support agricultural exports.
These moves have the potential to create multiple revenue streams for the fund and help Vanuatu reduce reliance on a narrow economic base. Agius said the aim is not to speculate but to create stability. “We see opportunities that connect primary producers with new markets,” he said.
7. Global Reach and Demand
Investment migration is growing, driven by mobility, security, and diversification needs. Trusted by investors across Asia, Europe, and the U.S., VIMB’s markets also include the Middle East, the UK, and Australia. Clients are increasingly seeking programs that combine regulatory strength with clear use of funds.
Vanuatu’s small size means it cannot compete on scale, but its program offers speed—most applications are processed within 60 to 90 days, and relative simplicity compared to other jurisdictions. VIMB’s compliance record and operational visibility make it a natural choice for applicants wary of opaque processes.