Start Your Journey to Residency in Vanuatu

Residency in Vanuatu opens the door to living in one of the world’s most welcoming island nations. With permits available from 1 year to 10 years, applicants can choose the pathway that best suits their lifestyle, family, or investment goals. The 10-year residency offers a clear advantage — it can lead to citizenship and a Vanuatu passport, providing long-term security and global mobility. Whether through partnership, employment, investment, or property ownership, Vanuatu offers flexible residency options tailored to different circumstances.




Our agents are fully registered with the Vanuatu Immigration Department, giving clients confidence that all applications are managed in line with official requirements. As part of compliance, our registration must be renewed annually, ensuring we maintain the highest standards of integrity and accountability when assisting with residency and citizenship applications.

Choose Your Residency Pathway

1. Partner (spouse/de facto with Vanuatu citizen/resident)


2. Child (dependent of citizen/resident)

Employee (12+ month contract in Vanuatu)


3. Self-Funded Resident (income proof from Vanuatu bank)


4. Foreign Investor (VIPA certificate + license)


5. Leasehold Holder (property valued at 10M Vatu+)


6. Employee (12+ month contract in Vanuatu)


Prepare Required Documents

 Prepare Required Documents


1. Valid passport (with certified copies)


2. Current residency permit (if applicable)


3. Police clearance from both Vanuatu and your home country


4. Medical certificate for immigration purposes


5. Proof of financial capacity or income (bank statements, contracts, etc.)


6. Property or investment documents (if you own property in Vanuatu)


7. Two recent passport-sized photographs


8. Business plan outlining your intended work or investment in Vanuatu


9. Reference letter from a qualified professional (doctor, teacher, or lawyer)


10. One month’s bank statement showing income


11. Proof of assets valued at USD 500,000 or more (for self-funded applicants)


12. Three forms of identification (e.g., birth certificate, driver’s licence, bank card)

Once you’ve chosen your residency pathway, the next step is to submit your application. This involves completing the official application form with Immigration Services, attaching all required supporting documents, and paying the application fee. After submission, residency holders must comply with visa conditions at all times — including obeying Vanuatu’s laws, maintaining peace and good conduct, and notifying Immigration of any major changes to personal, financial, or employment circumstances. For those holding a 10-year residency, there is an additional advantage: after completing the full term, you may become eligible to apply for Vanuatu citizenship, unlocking the benefits of a Vanuatu passport and long-term security.


Once all documents are submitted and the application fee is paid, the processing period generally takes 4 to 6 weeks. During this time, Immigration will review your file, verify supporting documents, and may request additional information if needed. Applicants are advised to ensure their paperwork is complete and accurate to avoid unnecessary delays.


Application Costs
Residency in Vanuatu starts from
USD 10,000 for a single applicant or USD 15,000 for a family of four.

Payment is structured in three stages:

  • 25% deposit due at the time of application
  • 25% installment upon submission of documents
  • 50% balance payable upon final approval of residency

This staged approach provides flexibility while ensuring your application progresses smoothly through each phase.


Preparation of a business plan and assistance with document verification are handled on a case-by-case basis. Support will depend on the applicant’s chosen residency pathway, the type of documents required, and the level of professional input needed. Where necessary, tailored guidance can be provided to ensure all paperwork meets Immigration standards before submission.

Apply for Pre Approval

Before lodging your full residency application, you can apply for pre-approval. This step allows Immigration to review your basic eligibility, verify key documents, and confirm that you meet the minimum requirements. Pre-approval reduces the risk of delays or rejections later, giving you confidence to proceed with the full application and payment schedule.

Apply for Pre Approval

Take the Next Step Toward Residency in Vanuatu
With flexible pathways, clear requirements, and a straightforward application process, securing residency in Vanuatu is an achievable goal. Whether you’re applying as an investor, family, or retiree, our registered agency will guide you from pre-approval through to final approval. Start preparing today and unlock the lifestyle, security, and opportunities that come with making Vanuatu your long-term home.

  • Q: How long does it take to process a residency application?

    Q: How long does it take to process a residency application?

    Once all documents are submitted, applications usually take 4–6 weeks to process.



  • Q: What is the cost of residency in Vanuatu?

    Q: What is the cost of residency in Vanuatu?

    Application costs start at USD 10,000 for a single applicant or USD 15,000 for a family of four, payable in three stages (25% at application, 25% at submission, 50% on approval).



  • Q: What are the different types of residency permits?

    Q: What are the different types of residency permits?

    Residency permits range from 1 year to 10 years, with the 10-year permit offering a pathway to apply for citizenship after completion.



  • Q: What documents are required for the application?

    Q: What documents are required for the application?

    You’ll need a valid passport, police clearance, medical certificate, financial proof, and supporting documents depending on your residency pathway (employment, investment, leasehold, etc.).



  • Q: Do I have to live in Vanuatu full-time?

    Q: Do I have to live in Vanuatu full-time?

    No. Residency requires maintaining your eligibility (investment, employment, property, or income) but does not require you to reside in Vanuatu year-round.



By Justine Murray October 1, 2025
Discover the main types of citizenship in Vanuatu, including birthright, descent, naturalization, and investment. Learn how each pathway works and who qualifies.
By Justine Murray October 18, 2024
"Navigating the Process: A Comprehensive Guide to Obtaining a Work Visa in Vanuatu"
By Justine Murray July 17, 2024
Which is best for you?
By Justine Murray October 22, 2024
"Exploring Aore Island: Unmatched Investment Potential in Pristine Paradise"
A thatched hut is surrounded by a clear bubble
By Noelyn Timothy July 10, 2024
WHAT IS A REAL ESTATE BUBBLE? A real estate bubble occurs when the prices of real estate properties are driven up to unsustainable levels due to speculation, excessive demand, and unrealistic expectations of future price increases. This can lead to a period of rapid price growth followed by a sudden and sharp decline in property values. Real estate bubbles can have significant negative effects on the economy, financial markets, and individuals who have invested in property during the bubble period. COUNTRIES IN A REAL ESTATE BUBBLE IN 2024 It is difficult to predict with certainty which countries will be in a real estate bubble in 2024. However, some countries that have been identified as potentially at risk of a real estate bubble include: Canada: The Canadian housing market has been experiencing rapid price growth in recent years, particularly in major cities like Toronto and Vancouver. Sweden: Sweden has also seen significant increases in housing prices, leading some observers to raise concerns about a potentially overheated market. Australia: The Australian housing market has been experiencing strong price growth, particularly in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne. United Kingdom: The UK housing market has been strong in recent years, particularly in London and the southeast, raising concerns about a potential bubble. It is important to note that these are just a few examples of countries that have been identified as potentially at risk of a real estate bubble, and the situation may change in the future. Investors and policymakers should monitor these markets closely for signs of overheating and take appropriate measures to address any potential risks. According to reliable real estate sources, Vanuatu is considered a great place to invest in real estate due to its stable and steadily growing market. Unlike other popular real estate markets that are experiencing a bubble, Vanuatu has seen consistent growth without the risk of a sudden downturn. The country's political stability, attractive tax incentives for investors, and growing tourism industry have all contributed to the increasing demand for property in Vanuatu. Additionally, the low cost of living and beautiful natural surroundings make it a desirable destination for both investors and expats looking to purchase a second home or vacation property. Overall, Vanuatu offers a unique opportunity for investors to diversify their portfolio in a market that is both stable and promising for long-term growth. With a supportive government and an expanding economy, investing in real estate in Vanuatu is considered a wise decision by industry experts.
A man in a hat is holding a yellow fruit in his hands.
By Justine Murray July 10, 2024
Do you have Passion for Farming?
Show More