Port Vila, Vanuatu – [April 30, 2025] – The government of Vanuatu has unveiled significant updates to its Citizenship by Investment and Immigration Program (CIIP), reflecting a renewed focus on oversight and economic investments. Announced through recent orders in April 2025, these changes aim to enhance the program’s integrity, simplifying the application process while maximizing the benefits for both investors and the economy.

Enhanced Oversight and Reporting:

To bolster transparency, designated agents must now provide detailed quarterly reports to the Commission. These reports will cover financial performance, including all relevant financial documents, and detailed investment activities. Additionally, the Commission is mandated to submit bi-annual reports on CIIP activities to the Prime Minister.

Strategic Investment Focus:

The updated CIIP targets investments in critical sectors to drive economic benefits, including Strata Tourism Development, the Productive Sector, key Commodities like Kava and Coffee, Infrastructure, and the Marine Sector.

Family Inclusions:

The program now allows applicants to include their spouse and up to two children under a single application, broadening accessibility for families.

Key Fee Adjustments:

The full donation/investment fee has been updated from USD 100,000 or AUD 150,000 to USD 115,000 or AUD 179,000 (or VT 13,900,000).

The government donation fee prior to citizenship has been raised from USD 50,000 to USD 60,000.

Investment fees directed to eligible sectors have increased from USD 50,000 to USD 55,000.

Sydney, 05/04/2025 — The Labour Party has secured a landslide victory in Australia's 2025 federal election, marking a significant shift in the country's political landscape. With the new government promising a commitment to climate action, regional development, and stronger international partnerships, Pacific Island nations are closely watching the unfolding changes.
Re-elected Prime Minister Anthony Albanese during the campaign trail had emphasized the government’s intention to prioritize create more employment, reduce taxes, place more effort on climate resilience, increased development assistance, and regional cooperation.
Analysts suggest that this shift could lead to expanded aid programs and innovative climate initiatives tailored to the unique vulnerabilities faced by Pacific Island nations. Australia is expected to deepen collaboration on disaster preparedness, renewable energy projects, and sustainable fisheries management.
A regional engagement with the Pacific is high on Australia’s agenda given the current influx of influence and belt road initiative and shared vision aid assistance and diplomacy which the People’s Republic of China have had on its Pacific neighbours in the last decade or so.
Regional leaders have expressed optimism about renewed Australian engagement. Pacific nations, which are among the most vulnerable to climate impacts, may benefit from increased support as Australia commits to stronger partnerships and development projects.
The election result signals a new phase of Australian foreign policy—one that emphasizes regional solidarity and proactive climate solutions. As the new government begins to outline its explicit policies, Pacific Island nations anticipate a more engaged and supportive Australia in the years ahead.