Vanuatu has recently launched a new investment option for its Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program. The option involves investing in Vanuatu government bonds denominated in Australian dollars (AUD).
The new investment option came into effect on March 27th, 2023 – updating the program’s investment routes – and is aimed at attracting more investors from Australia, which is one of the top countries for Vanuatu’s CBI program. It also offers investors a currency hedge against potential fluctuations in the AUD and provides a stable investment opportunity.
The minimum investments for the AUD-denominated bond option are as follows:
- AUD 150,000 (approx. $99,281.25 USD)– bond maturation 3 years
- AUD 170,000 (approx. $112,518.75 USD) – bond maturation 2.5 years
- AUD 180,000 (approx. $119,137.50 USD) – bond maturation 2 years
The bond units are issued by The Reserve Bank of Vanuatu and will not yield interest.
Along with the minimum investment, applicants will pay an application fee of $42 USD, a fee to the Master Agent of approx. $5,000 USD, and a certificate fee of approx. $83 USD.
The Master Agent is appointed to facilitate the sale and management of the AUD-denominated government bonds, increasing investor confidence in the program. Applicants will also be subject to certificate fees for each applicant, due diligence and bond transfer fees.
Other costs include the commission fees as listed below:
- AUD 20,000 (approx. $13,000 USD) for a single application
- AUD 30,000 (approx. $20,300 USD) for an applicant and their spouse
- AUD 45,000 (approx. $30,400 USD) for parents and one child
- AUD 60,000 (approx. $40,600 USD) for parents and two children
- AUD 7,500 (approx. $5,000 USD) for every additional child and dependent
Vanuatu’s CBI program is known for its streamlined application process, low investment requirements, and fast processing times. The program allows investors to obtain citizenship in Vanuatu in as little as 60 days, with visa-free travel to over 100 countries, tax-free status, and access to high-potential investment opportunities worldwide.
The introduction of the AUD-denominated bond option is expected to further boost the popularity of Vanuatu’s CBI program, especially among Australian investors who are looking for a stable investment opportunity with a strong currency hedge.
Overall, this new investment option is a positive development for Vanuatu’s CBI program, as it offers investors more flexibility and diversification in their investment portfolio, while also providing a stable and secure investment opportunity.
When the new option will come into force is not yet known. You can get acquainted with the current conditions for obtaining a Vanuatu passport by investment here.
Our team of international experts at Astons are perfectly placed to advise you on all aspects of second citizenship in Vanuatu, and to help you through the entire process. We will be happy to talk over your requirements with you in a no-obligation, free consultation.
