The demand for second passports has grown rapidly as global uncertainty, stricter visa policies, and financial concerns push investors to seek alternative options. Citizenship-by-investment programs (CBI) provide a legal route to dual citizenship, offering travel freedom, tax benefits, and security. Vanuatu’s program has emerged as one of the fastest and most direct solutions, attracting high-net-worth individuals worldwide.

VIMB has built a strong track record for efficiency and transparency among the companies facilitating this process. As an officially designated agent for the Vanuatu government, VIMB processes applications under strict regulatory guidelines, allowing clients to secure a second passport within weeks instead of months. This speed and reliability have made VIMB a preferred choice for investors seeking a seamless citizenship process.

A Model of Speed and Accessibility

Vanuatu’s Development Support Program (DSP) was introduced to attract foreign investment while contributing to national development. Unlike European and Caribbean CBI programs, which often take six months to a year to process applications, Vanuatu’s program is among the fastest in the world, with successful applicants receiving approval in as little as 30 to 60 days.

The program offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 100 countries, including the United Kingdom, Singapore, and Hong Kong. This has made it a strategic option for business leaders and frequent travelers who face increasing travel restrictions. In addition, Vanuatu has no income, capital gains, or inheritance taxes, making it an attractive jurisdiction for wealth management.

Daniel Agius, a key figure at VIMB, explains the rising demand. "People want mobility, stability, and financial flexibility. A second passport is no longer a luxury, it is a necessity for those who need global access without the restrictions of a single nationality."

How VIMB Streamlines the Citizenship Process

Applying for second citizenship can be complicated, with strict requirements, due diligence checks, and varying government policies. Many CBI providers rely on multiple intermediaries, slowing down applications and increasing costs. VIMB eliminates these inefficiencies by working directly with Vanuatu’s government, reducing delays and miscommunication.

VIMB handles applications from submission to approval, ensuring all required documents are verified and processed without unnecessary complications. Clients receive a clear breakdown of costs before applying, avoiding unexpected fees or hidden charges. This level of structured processing and financial transparency has positioned VIMB as one of the most trusted service providers in the region.

The Need for Second Citizenship

The past decade has seen significant changes in immigration policies worldwide. Once open to business investors, countries have tightened their residency and citizenship rules, making traditional immigration routes more difficult and time-consuming. At the same time, travel restrictions, economic shifts, and political instability have led more individuals to explore alternative residency and citizenship options.

According to the United Nations and the International Organization for Migration (IOM), over 281 million people will live outside their birth country in 2023, which is expected to rise by 15 percent by 2030. With travel and financial regulations constantly changing, individuals and families seek long-term solutions that provide security and flexibility.

Agius comments on this shift. "We are seeing a major increase in applications from entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals who need a second passport not just for personal reasons but as a business tool. They need a solution that works with their lifestyle, not against it."

Stronger Regulations and the Future of Citizenship Programs

As the popularity of CBI programs grows, governments are tightening regulations to prevent fraud, money laundering, and abuse. The European Union, the United States, and other major economies have pressured smaller nations to strengthen due diligence and reporting requirements.

Vanuatu has responded by implementing stricter background checks, financial disclosures, and verification procedures to maintain the integrity of its citizenship program. These changes protect the government and legitimate applicants from risks associated with unauthorized agents and fraudulent applications.

CBI providers like VIMB must constantly adapt to new legal frameworks while offering a streamlined service. VIMB ensures that every applicant undergoes thorough screening and verification by working closely with Vanuatu’s regulatory bodies, reducing the likelihood of legal complications in the future.

Written By Andrea Winters

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