At a Glance
Cost of Living
moderate
Safety
high
English Level
high
Climate
Tropical/subtropical - warm year-round (20-30°C), wet season Nov-Apr, cyclone risk
Essentials
Cost 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.
Lifestyle
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.
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.
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.
More Topics
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.
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.
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.