Vanuatu, a Pacific island nation known for its natural beauty and stable governance, offers several legal pathways to citizenship. While most applicants pursue citizenship through the country’s well-known Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs, there also exists a more traditional route — citizenship by marriage. This pathway allows the foreign spouse of a Vanuatuan citizen to acquire citizenship through naturalization, under specific legal conditions defined by the Vanuatu Citizenship Act. This route is often less publicized but remains an important option for couples wishing to settle permanently in Vanuatu and become part of its local community. Below, we explore the eligibility criteria, required documents, residency obligations, and implications for dual nationality.
Eligibility Requirements Under Form B
Citizenship by marriage in Vanuatu is governed by Section 10 of the Citizenship Act, which allows the foreign spouse of a Vanuatuan citizen to apply for citizenship through a simplified naturalization process. The procedure is initiated using Form B, the official application form for this category. To qualify for citizenship by marriage, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Legally married to a Vanuatuan citizen for a continuous period of at least two years at the time of application.
- Residing in Vanuatu for a reasonable period and demonstrating genuine ties to the local community.
- Good character and conduct, verified through police clearance from both the applicant’s country of origin and Vanuatu.
- Financial stability, ensuring that the applicant will not become a public charge.
- Basic knowledge of Bislama or English or French, the country’s official languages.
Applicants must also sign a declaration of loyalty to the Republic of Vanuatu and renounce allegiance to any foreign power that conflicts with Vanuatu’s laws. It is important to note that the government assesses each application on a case-by-case basis, particularly regarding the authenticity of the marriage and the couple’s long-term intention to reside in the country. Marriages of convenience entered into solely for the purpose of obtaining citizenship are explicitly prohibited and may result in prosecution or revocation of citizenship.
Required Documents and Application Process
The application for Vanuatu citizenship by marriage involves submitting Form B along with a set of mandatory documents. These materials are reviewed by the Vanuatu Citizenship Office and the Citizenship Commission, which jointly oversee the evaluation process. Required Documents:
- Completed Form B (Application for Citizenship by Marriage)
- Certified copy of the marriage certificate
- Birth certificate of both spouses
- Valid passport of the applicant and proof of lawful residence in Vanuatu
- Police clearance certificate from the applicant’s country of origin and from Vanuatu authorities
- Medical certificate confirming good health
- Proof of income or financial resources, such as bank statements or employment letters
- Photographs (passport-sized)
- Declaration of loyalty to Vanuatu and renunciation of foreign allegiance (if applicable)
Although the procedure can take several months, it ensures transparency and fairness. Proper documentation, honesty, and compliance with all steps greatly improve the chances of successful approval. Vanuatu’s authorities emphasize that this process exists to strengthen family unity rather than serve as a shortcut to citizenship.
Application Procedure
- Submission of documents – The applicant must submit Form B and supporting materials to the Citizenship Office in Port Vila or through an authorized legal representative.
- Review by the Citizenship Commission – The Commission assesses the authenticity of the marriage, financial stability, and moral character.
- Background verification – Authorities may conduct interviews and request additional documentation if necessary.
- Decision and approval – Successful applicants receive a Certificate of Citizenship by Marriage, signed by the President of Vanuatu.
- Oath of allegiance – The final step is to take the Oath of Allegiance before a magistrate or authorized government officer.
Processing time typically ranges from 3 to 6 months, depending on the completeness of the application and verification requirements.
Residency
Residency plays a crucial role in qualifying for Vanuatu citizenship by marriage. It demonstrates an applicant’s genuine connection to the country, participation in local community life, and commitment to contributing socially and economically. To apply under Form B, the foreign spouse typically must have resided in Vanuatu for at least 12 months before applying. In some cases, this requirement may extend to two years depending on individual circumstances, such as time spent abroad or verification delays. Residency allows the applicant to work, own property, and participate in community affairs.
The residency period is not merely an administrative formality; it symbolizes belonging and loyalty. Through living in Vanuatu, applicants gain an authentic understanding of the nation’s culture and values, making the eventual citizenship grant both deserved and meaningful.
Dual Citizenship
Vanuatu is one of the few Pacific nations that permits dual citizenship, a significant advantage for applicants married to Vanuatuan citizens. This means that individuals can retain their original nationality while also enjoying the rights of Vanuatu citizenship, provided their home country allows it. Dual citizenship broadens opportunities for families with international ties, enabling spouses to live, work, and travel more freely across borders. It also ensures family unity, allowing children of mixed-nationality marriages to benefit from both heritages.
- Freedom to live and work indefinitely in Vanuatu
- Access to Vanuatu’s visa-free travel privileges (over 95 destinations)
- Retention of original nationality for international mobility
- Easier property ownership and inheritance rights in Vanuatu
- Eligibility for family members to apply for citizenship
Dual citizenship supports the modern, interconnected nature of families today. For spouses of Vanuatuan citizens, it offers a practical solution that respects personal and national identity while preserving cross-border rights.
FAQ
No. As of 2025, Vanuatu recognizes marriage only between a man and a woman under its domestic law.
Yes. The application fee typically ranges between 20,000 and 50,000 Vanuatu Vatu (VUV), excluding document certification and legal fees.
No. The marriage must be legally recognized and ongoing for at least two years before an application can be submitted.
In such cases, the application will be automatically terminated, as citizenship by marriage is contingent upon the marital relationship.
Yes. If the marriage was found to be fraudulent or obtained under false pretenses, citizenship can be revoked under the Citizenship Act Section 15.
Children from the marriage may apply for citizenship through their parent once the foreign spouse has been granted citizenship, but they must file a separate application.
