Vanuatu has introduced a new passport requirement for all citizens, including those who obtained citizenship by investment, to appear in-person to submit passport applications.
The Vanuatu Citizenship Office & Commission announced the change in a memo on 7 August 2024 and informed all authorized agents that starting from 1 December 2024, all applicants must complete the Vanuatu citizenship interview process in person.
According to the memo from Vanuatu Immigration Service, applicants will now need to visit a Immigration and Passport office to provide biometric and facial recognition data.
This is a change from the previous system, where applications could be submitted remotely with a photo attached.
Why Vanuatu Introduced In-person Citizenship Interviews
Vanuatu’s new mandatory in-person citizenship interview requirement aligns with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards for travel documents. As an ICAO signatory, Vanuatu is implementing these measures to improve passport security features including an embedded chip with personal data.
This is in response to the EU Commission’s proposal to make Vanuatu’s Schengen visa free access suspension permanent due to concerns over its biometric features.
Glen Craig, Senior Advisor at Stanford Knight and Partners, said the new measures address EU officials’ concerns over passport security and shows Vanuatu’s commitment to high standards.
New electronic passports
Alongside the upcoming interview requirement beginning 1 December 2024, the Vanuatu government is overhauling its passport production system to begin issuing state-of-the-art electronic passports by November.
Vanuatu’s new biometric electronic passports will be equipped with advanced security features:
- Biometric data: Fingerprints, iris scans, and facial recognition to minimize the risk of unauthorized use of stolen or counterfeit passports.
- Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Chip: RFID chips contain travelers’ personal information, including biometrics, facilitating quick identity verification and ports of entry.
- Digital signature: Each passport will include a digital signature to quickly identify and prevent any unauthorized changes or tampering.
The new passports, equipped with advanced security features, aim to reduce identity theft and other security breaches, supporting Vanuatu’s broader objective of restoring enhanced visa free travel privileges.
Approved Locations to Take the Vanuatu Citizenship Interview
The new Vanuatu passport application process may significantly impact CBI applicants due to the requirement to travel to Vanuatu. Despite the initial challenges, Manpreet Kataria, MD at Alpha Immigration Associates, expressed support for the new process, believing it would ultimately benefit the country.
However, newly appointed Minister of Internal Affairs, Andrew Napuat, addressed concerns about the travel requirement on 13 August 2024. He announced that investors can submit their applications and biometrics at Vanuatu Embassies in Brussels, Dubai, Hong Kong, and Noumea, with additional locations set to be added in the near future.
Attending a citizenship interview
The citizenship interview is part of the process for investors applying for Vanuatu citizenship by investment. Here is a general Vanuatu citizenship interview checklist:
- Document submission: Ensure all documents have been submitted with the help of a migration specialist like Global Citizen Solutions. These include identity documents, financial statements, police clearance certificates, and other requested forms to support an application.
- Appointment scheduling: Once your application reaches the interview stage, you will receive an official appointment notice, in which you can choose a date, time, and location for the interview.
- Travel arrangements: If the interview is in Vanuatu, book your travel and accommodation well in advance while checking if you need a visa for entry.
- Check-in with authorities: Upon arrival, applicants may need to report to designated offices or legal representatives to confirm their presence and receive further instructions.
Take a look at our Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment Ultimate Guide
Potential Benefits for Vanuatu Citizens and the Future Investors
Kataria sees benefits in this new requirement, especially in bringing CBI citizens closer to Vanuatu through personal visits, which would boost tourism. He also believes improved biometric security that aligns with ICAO requirements addresses previous criticisms of Vanuatu’s CBI programs.
Increased credibility and trust: The in-person interview process increases the applicant’s credibility and the overall CBI program. By meeting with government officials face-to-face, applicants can emphasize their seriousness and transparency, ultimately supporting stronger diplomatic relations with foreign governments.
Faster application process: Applicants can shorten the Vanuatu citizenship interview timeline by meeting with officials in person to answer any questions or concerns, complete formalities on-site, and have documentation reviewed faster, resulting in faster approval and a faster process overall.
Enhanced security: With the new electronic Vanuatu passports, successful applicants will benefit from advanced biometric features that boost travel safety and lessen the risk of identity theft.
Determine future plans: Besides Vanuatu citizenship interview preparation, applicants can better understand if Vanuatu fits their personal or business goals, whether it’s to relocate, set up a business, or spend time in the country.
Although the EU’s suspension of Vanuatu passport visa free travel has led to fewer CBI applicants, the nation’s CBI program continues to attract investors with its competitive features.
