About the Commission

The Commission

The Citizenship's Office and Commission (COC) is a statutory, Constitutional body established by the Vanuatu Citizenship Act [Cap 112], with the authority and legal mandate to regulate, oversee and administer matters relating to citizenship in accordance with Vanuatu laws.

Role & powers

The Commission has the general legal powers to:

• consider and approve, defer or reject applications for Vanuatu citizenship; and
• revoke a citizenship if it was not granted according to the provisions of the Citizenship Act [Cap 112] and/or the national Constitution, and other powers specified or implied by the Act.

The Commission ensures that the provisions of the Citizenship Act [Cap 112] and the citizenship-related provisions of the national Constitution are implemented and enforced.

Vision, Mission & Values

Mission

To facilitate and ensure a seamless citizenship process, fostering inclusivity and diversity while upholding the highest standards of integrity and efficiency in serving our community.

Vision

A seamless and inclusive process that empowers individuals to acquire and uphold citizenship with efficiency and integrity — centred on accessible resources, civic engagement, and a sense of belonging within a diverse and vibrant community.

Values

• Strict legal compliance
• Quality delivery of service
• Effective leadership
• Integrity
• Diligence

Organisational Structure

The current organisational structure of the Citizenship's Office and Commission was approved on 3 May 2023 by the Vanuatu Public Service Commission.

Chairman & Citizenship Commission Board Members

Secretary GeneralCitizenship Commission

Manager Citizenship Program Analyst & Advocacy

• Senior Program Analyst & Advocacy
• Senior Policy Analyst & Advocacy

Manager Compliance & Diligence Officer

• Senior Compliance & Investment Program Officer
• Data Processing Officer
• Data Entry Officer

Manager Finance & Administration

• Media & IT Officer
• Senior Administration Officer
  • Receptionist & Filing Officer
  • Driver / Messenger
  • Cleaner / Support Officer
• Senior Finance & Budget Officer

Governance & Leadership

Hon. Charlie Amalmiye'rr Maniel

Chairman · Citizenship Office & Commission

Leading the Constitutional body responsible for safeguarding the integrity of Vanuatu citizenship in all its forms.

The Commission's work is carried out through clearly defined bodies, each with a role set by law:

Legislative Framework

Citizenship in Vanuatu is governed by the Citizenship Act [Cap 112], enacted by Parliament and in force since 1980. It has been amended several times — in 2013, twice in 2014, in 2018 and most recently in 2021. A key amendment recognises dual citizenship. The national Constitution (Chapter 3) also provides for citizenship.

Citizenship Act & amendments

Constitutional provisions

Regulations & orders

Location & Contact

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