The government is moving to amend Vanuatu’s Citizenship Commission Act in a bid to rebuild international confidence and strengthen the integrity of the country’s Citizenship Program.
The proposed amendment, listed for this month’s sitting of Parliament, seeks to address ongoing issues that have damaged Vanuatu’s reputation abroad.
Under the new law, the Citizenship Commission will gain full authority to make independent decisions free from outside influence. It will also introduce tougher background checks to block applicants with criminal records or those named on Interpol’s Red Notice list.
In addition, all agents involved in the investment citizenship process will be required to register and comply strictly with approved procedures.
Sources told VBTC News, the reforms are vital to protecting Vanuatu’s good name and ensuring the citizenship process remains transparent, fair, and credible.