Population
320,000
Capital
Port Vila
Languages
Bislama, English
+1 more
💰Cost & Practicalities
🏥Living Conditions
🛂Immigration
Visas & Immigration
View all💎Citizenship by Investment (CIIP)
The Capital Investment Immigration Plan (CIIP), launched in 2023, offers a more cost-effective citizenship path. Invests $50,000 of your contribution into the Cocoa Sustainable Fund (CSF), which is redeemable after 4 years. This effectively reduces your net cost compared to DSP. Same fast processing (30-45 days) and requirements as DSP. Ideal for investors who prefer partial capital recovery. Note: EU Schengen access currently suspended.
🛂Citizenship by Investment (DSP)
The Development Support Program (DSP) is Vanuatu's primary citizenship by investment pathway and the fastest CBI program globally. Processing takes just 30-45 days. Requires a non-refundable contribution starting at $130,000 for a single applicant. No residency, language test, or interview required. Must visit Vanuatu or a consulate (UAE, Hong Kong, New Caledonia) for biometrics. Passport grants visa-free access to 107+ countries including Singapore, Hong Kong, and UK. Note: EU Schengen access suspended since 2022, expected restoration by mid-2026 pending EU review.
💻Remote Worker Visa
Vanuatu's Remote Worker Visa allows digital nomads, freelancers, and remote employees to live and work legally in Vanuatu for up to 12 months while employed by foreign companies or running businesses registered abroad. No local employment required. Take advantage of Vanuatu's zero income tax while enjoying tropical island life. Requires proof of remote employment or business ownership, health insurance, and sufficient funds. English is an official language, making communication easy.
🏠Residence Visa
Vanuatu offers residence visas for those wishing to live long-term without working locally. Categories include retirees, investors, and those with independent means. Requires proof of sufficient income or assets to support yourself without local employment. Vanuatu's zero income tax makes it attractive for retirees and those with passive income. Can be a stepping stone to citizenship for those who prefer gradual integration.
✈️Tourist Visa
Most nationalities can visit Vanuatu visa-free or obtain a visa on arrival for tourism, with stays up to 30-120 days depending on nationality. US, UK, EU, Australian, and New Zealand citizens get visa-free entry for 30 days. Non-exempted countries can apply for an eVisa. No commercial work permitted. Extensions not available - must exit before visa expires. Perfect for exploring Vanuatu before committing to longer-term options.
👷Work Visa
Foreigners seeking employment in Vanuatu must obtain a work permit from the Department of Labour and Employment Services, plus a residence visa. Requires a confirmed job offer from a Vanuatu employer. Various categories exist: Short-Term Employment (4 months), Development Support (5 years for government work), Specialist Skilled (2 weeks for entertainers/athletes), Disaster Recovery (12 months), and Religious Worker (5 years). The employer must demonstrate the position cannot be filled locally.
Expat Life
View allCost of Living
Vanuatu offers moderate living costs, significantly cheaper than Australia or New Zealand. Port Vila is most expensive; outer islands are 20-30% cheaper. Zero income tax is the major financial advantage.
Healthcare
Vanuatu has basic healthcare facilities concentrated in Port Vila. Serious medical issues require evacuation to Australia or New Zealand. Medical evacuation insurance is absolutely essential.
Housing
Housing ranges from basic local-style homes to modern expat apartments. Port Vila has the best selection. Property can be leased long-term but land ownership by foreigners is restricted.
Banking
Vanuatu has five licensed banks including ANZ and Bred Bank (French). Expats can open accounts with passport and proof of income. International transfers available via SWIFT. No reporting requirements due to zero-tax status.
Working Remotely
Vanuatu is emerging as a digital nomad destination with its Remote Worker Visa and zero income tax. Internet in Port Vila is adequate but expensive. Perfect for those who can work flexibly around occasional outages.
Taxes
Vanuatu is a true tax haven with zero income tax, capital gains tax, inheritance tax, or wealth tax. Only VAT (12.5%) and import duties apply. Major draw for expats, retirees, and investors.
Safety
Vanuatu has very low crime rates - safer than most Western cities. The main safety concerns are natural disasters: cyclones (Nov-Apr), earthquakes, and volcanoes. Disaster preparedness is essential.
Expat Community
Vanuatu has a small but welcoming expat community, primarily Australians, New Zealanders, and French. The local Ni-Vanuatu culture emphasizes community ("kastom"). Easy to integrate if you embrace island pace.
Climate & Weather
Tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round (20-30°C). Two seasons: dry (May-Oct) and wet/cyclone season (Nov-Apr). Humidity is high, but trade winds provide relief.
Transportation
Getting around Vanuatu relies on informal minibuses in Port Vila, ferries between islands, and domestic flights. No trains or formal public transit. Many expats have vehicles; driving is on the right.
Language
Vanuatu has three official languages: Bislama (pidgin English), English, and French. English is widely spoken in business and tourism. Learning basic Bislama earns local appreciation.
Culture & Lifestyle
Vanuatu culture centers on "kastom" (traditional custom) - community, respect, and shared values. Lifestyle is relaxed with "island time" being real. Strong connection to nature, family, and simple pleasures.
Questions
View allWhat countries can I visit visa-free with a Vanuatu passport?
How fast can I get Vanuatu citizenship by investment, and what does it cost?
Is Vanuatu safe to live in? What about cyclones and earthquakes?
Is it true that Vanuatu has no income tax? What taxes do expats actually pay?
What is the cost of living in Vanuatu for expats?