“People want options when it comes to their future, and second citizenship provides that flexibility,” says Daniel Agius, Chief Operating Officer of VIMB.org. “Vanuatu’s Citizenship by Investment program is one of the fastest and most straightforward in the world, which is why demand continues to grow.”
With increasing geopolitical uncertainty, tighter travel restrictions, and evolving tax policies, high-net-worth individuals, entrepreneurs, and professionals are turning to second citizenship to secure financial and personal freedom. VIMB.org, a designated agent for Vanuatu’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program, facilitates this process with a focus on compliance, efficiency, and transparency.
Why Vanuatu’s Citizenship Program Stands Out
Vanuatu’s CBI program, established in 2017, offers a fast-track route to second citizenship, with processing times significantly shorter than many similar programs. Unlike European golden visa schemes that require residency or physical presence, Vanuatu’s program allows investors to obtain citizenship without relocating.
The program requires a minimum contribution of $130,000 to Vanuatu’s government development fund, making it one of the more affordable CBI options. In contrast, Malta, Cyprus, and the Caribbean programs often demand higher financial commitments or additional real estate investments.
The efficiency of Vanuatu’s process is one of its main attractions. According to government data, applications are typically approved within 30 to 60 days, which outpaces most competing programs.
Security and Compliance Measures
The rise of investment migration has led to increased scrutiny of CBI programs worldwide, with governments implementing stricter background checks to prevent misuse. In response, Vanuatu has strengthened its due diligence framework, incorporating a four-tier vetting process that aligns with international financial regulations.
The Vanuatu Financial Intelligence Unit (VFIU) oversees security screenings to ensure all applicants pass anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing (CTF) protocols. Data from 2024 shows that over 90 percent of applications undergo enhanced background verification before approval.
Agius emphasizes the importance of compliance, stating, “This is not just a program for financial gain, it is about security and credibility. Every applicant must meet strict vetting requirements before citizenship is granted.”
Who Is Applying and Why?
The demand for second passports has surged in recent years, driven by global instability, economic shifts, and personal security concerns. According to a 2023 Henley & Partners report, applications for alternative citizenship programs increased by 37 percent worldwide, with investors citing greater mobility, tax benefits, and wealth protection as key motivators.
Vanuatu’s program has seen strong interest from business owners, digital entrepreneurs, and expatriates in China, the Middle East, Africa, and Southeast Asia. Many applicants seek unrestricted access to international markets and better visa-free travel options.
Vanuatu’s passport currently ranks 40th on the Henley Passport Index, providing visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 100 countries, including the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, and Singapore. While it does not yet offer Schengen access, discussions on expanding visa agreements are ongoing.
VIMB.org’s Role in the Process
As an officially designated agent, VIMB.org is crucial in assisting applicants throughout the citizenship application process. Unlike unauthorized brokers with minimal oversight, VIMB.org works directly with the Vanuatu Citizenship Commission, ensuring all applications meet government standards.
The company has processed applications from over 50 nationalities, maintaining a 99 percent success rate due to its structured approach and emphasis on accuracy. The service includes document verification, compliance checks, and liaising with government authorities, reducing the risk of delays or rejections.
“Our role is to handle the complexities so clients do not have to,” Agius explains. “We focus on efficiency, professionalism, and adherence to regulations, which is why we’ve built a strong reputation in the industry.”
Investment Migration Trends and Vanuatu’s Competitive Edge
As governments reassess immigration policies in response to economic and security concerns, citizenship-by-investment programs are undergoing significant changes.
Vanuatu’s program is expected to remain attractive, especially as Caribbean and European schemes face increasing regulatory scrutiny. The Vanuatu Citizenship Commission is evaluating potential improvements, including efforts to expand visa-free access to additional countries, which would enhance the passport’s value.
Government-approved service providers such as VIMB.org will ensure transparency and compliance. As investment migration becomes a more widely accepted strategy among high-net-worth individuals, the demand for efficient and well-regulated pathways to second citizenship will continue to grow.