Transparency & accountability
Public trust is earned, not assumed. This is how Vanuatu citizenship is grounded in law, how every contribution serves the nation, and how the Commission holds the programme to account.
A Constitutional foundation
Citizenship in Vanuatu is established by the national Constitution (Chapter 3) and the Citizenship Act [Cap 112], in force since 1980 and amended over the decades that followed. The Commission administers every pathway — by birth, descent, naturalisation, marriage and investment — strictly within this framework, and within it alone.
The full body of law, including downloadable copies of the Act, its amendments and the governing regulations, is published on our About page.
See the full legislative frameworkDecisions made by law, not by discretion
No single person grants citizenship. Each application passes through defined institutions, each with a role set by the Citizenship Act [Cap 112].
The Commission
The Constitutional authority that considers, approves, defers or rejects every application — and may revoke a citizenship granted contrary to the Act or Constitution. Chaired by Hon. Charlie Amalmiye'rr Maniel.
The Secretariat
Administers applications and serves the public, led by the Secretary General. It receives files only from licensed agents and prepares them for screening.
Internal Screening Committee
Reviews each completed file against every legal requirement before it is allowed to reach the Commission for a decision.
Financial Intelligence Unit
An independent unit within the State Law Office that conducts intelligence and background checks on every applicant, under Order No. 33 of 2019.
What we commit to publish
Legitimacy depends on openness. Beyond the figures already in the public record through the IMF, the Commission is working toward regular, published reporting on the programme — so that citizens, partners and applicants can see how it is run.
The indicators below are the reporting standard the Office is building toward. Current published figures will be linked here as each reporting cycle is completed.
An honest word on travel
A Vanuatu passport is a travel document of the Republic. Visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry to any country is granted at the discretion of that country, and arrangements change over time. The Commission does not guarantee access to any particular destination, and prospective applicants should verify the current entry requirements for the countries that matter to them.
For clarity: as of 2025, travel to the European Union / Schengen Area requires a visa for Vanuatu citizens. We would rather state this plainly than let anyone apply on a false expectation. Citizenship of Vanuatu is best understood for what it durably offers — a secure legal status in a peaceful Pacific nation, fiscal simplicity, and a home for your family — rather than any single travel privilege.
A programme built to be trusted
Read how every application is examined, or speak with a licensed authorised agent.