Obtaining a Vanuatu passport: new rules in 2025 for investors

The Government of the Republic of Vanuatu has announced key changes to the passport application and renewal process. Under the new rules, when applying to renew a Vanuatu passport (including a biometric passport), two documents must also be provided:

1. Local birth certificate (Birth Certificate)
2. National ID card (National ID Card).

Also, according to the Vanuatu National Identity Act Part 2 Section 4 (5), a new citizen of Vanuatu is required to apply for a national ID card within 28 days after being granted citizenship, which slightly increases the overall duration of participation in the program.

For new investors, the process is as follows:

1. Approval of the application for citizenship by investment.
2. Receipt of a naturalization certificate.
3. Receipt of a biometric passport.
4. Submission of an application for a Vanuatu national ID card (within 28 days of receiving the passport) and registration of a local birth certificate.

We recommend preparing a package of documents for an ID card and birth certificate immediately after obtaining citizenship in order to avoid delays in renewing and replacing your Vanuatu passport in the future.

It is important to note that the Vanuatu second citizenship program is an excellent opportunity to obtain a passport for investment in just 2-3 months. The simplified procedure for submitting remote applications without biometrics has been extended until September 30, 2025.

Vanuatu passport holders have access to visa-free or simplified entry to more than 90 countries around the world, including Hong Kong, Singapore, and some EU countries, which provides enormous opportunities for business and travel.

After obtaining citizenship, many clients have questions about how to exercise their new rights. Our after-sales service includes a range of services that will help you comfortably use your Vanuatu passport:

1. Obtaining a certificate of no criminal record in Vanuatu.
2. Assistance in obtaining a local phone number and registration address.
3. Issuance of an international driver’s license.
4. Support with any other legal and administrative issues.

Our experts are always available and ready to answer any questions you may have about your new citizenship.

Q: How much longer does it take to obtain a passport?
A: The new requirements slightly increase the overall processing time, by approximately 2-4 weeks, depending on the workload of the departments.

Q: What should I do if I already have a Vanuatu passport?
A: When you renew your passport or replace it with a biometric one, you will also need to show a local Birth Certificate and a National ID card. We recommend that you do prepare these documents in advance.

Q: Is the Vanuatu citizenship program still relevant?
A: Absolutely. Despite the new requirements, the program still offers one of the fastest and easiest ways to obtain second citizenship for the whole family.

In conclusion, we would like to note that the new rules for obtaining Vanuatu passports are aimed at standardizing the process and integrating new citizens into the country’s legal framework. Despite the additional steps, the Vanuatu investment citizenship program remains attractive thanks to its speed, transparency, and extensive visa-free travel opportunities.

Still have questions? Contact us for a free consultation, and our experts will help you complete all the steps without delay.