Vanuatu CIIP Investment Thresholds Rise with New Compliance Rules

vanuatu
Citizenship by Investment
Published Date: 06.05.2025

Vanuatu has announced a 15–20% increase in CIIP investment thresholds to boost transparency and elevate program standards.

As a result, the base contribution for a single applicant will rise from $100,000 to $115,000. Meanwhile, the fee for adding a spouse will increase by 20%, growing from $50,000 to $60,000. Additionally, adult dependent contributions will rise from $50,000 to $55,000, marking a 10% increase. These new rates take effect under changes signed by Prime Minister Jotham Napat in April 2025.

Government Suspends CIIP to Prepare for Overhaul

While announcing these changes, the government suspended new CIIP applications starting March 17, 2025.
This pause follows a Cabinet directive and aims to allow time for regulatory improvements.

The Citizenship Commission has stopped accepting new submissions until further notice from the Prime Minister’s office.
During this period, authorities are focused on reshaping CIIP into a world-class program.

New Compliance Rules for CIIP Agents Introduced

Under the new regulation, all designated agents must now meet strict transparency obligations.
Therefore, agents must file quarterly reports outlining their investment sector activities and financial data.
Each report must include bank statements, profit and loss statements, and documented expenses.

Additionally, agents must submit a business plan, investment targets, and evidence of real investment activity.
If the Commission is not satisfied, it may order an audit by an independent auditor at the agent’s expense.

Annual Oversight Requirements Add Accountability

To maintain government accountability, the Citizenship Commission must now report annually to the Prime Minister.
This report is due within three months of the close of each fiscal year.
It must include updates on agent performance and overall program development.

Agent Entry Standards Will Be Higher

Besides reporting duties, agents must now present an investment plan to the Commission before operating.
This plan must align with the sector the agent promotes and market investments accordingly.
As a result, new agents will need to demonstrate real strategy and alignment with national goals.

Investments Must Align with National Priorities

Unlike Vanuatu’s DSP program, CIIP is an investment-based pathway, not a donation model. Through the CIIP, capital flows into targeted sectors such as agriculture and sustainable development. Notable projects include the CIIP-Cocoa Fund, Melekule Cocoa Farming, and CIIP-CNO Future Fund. These channels reflect Vanuatu’s efforts to attract foreign capital into impactful, long-term infrastructure.

International Pressure Sparks Stronger Enforcement

These reforms follow increasing global scrutiny of Vanuatu’s citizenship-by-investment programs. In 2024, the EU permanently revoked visa-free access for Vanuatu passport holders. Additionally, reports suggest Vanuatu has appeared on a U.S. travel ban list. In response, the government has prioritized compliance, integrity, and inter-agency collaboration.

Optimism Grows as CIIP Reforms Gain Momentum

Despite past setbacks, industry leaders see encouraging signs of reform. Glen Craig, Managing Partner at Pacific Advisory, praised the government’s effort to elevate standards. He emphasized that program oversight, transparency, and strategic focus are improving every week. Although issues remain, officials are clearly committed to restoring confidence and credibility.

Agents Must Prepare for New Regulation

Looking ahead, agents should prepare for a finalized CIIP regulation. This regulation is currently under review by the Office of the Attorney General. Once complete, it will require formal approval and signature by the Prime Minister. These next steps are critical to ensuring the CIIP is future-proof, compliant, and trusted.

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