Vanuatu Digital Nomad Visa (2026)
Everything you need to know about the Self-Funded Residence Visa — income requirements, validity, work rights and how to apply.
Programme
Self-Funded Residence Visa
Income requirement
$2,500/month
Validity
1 year initial, renewable
Work rights
Restricted
Path to PR
Yes — 10 years
Tax residency trigger
183 days/year
About the Self-Funded Residence Visa
For retirees and high-net-worth individuals with proven foreign income.
Official source: Vanuatu Investment Promotion Authority
Who this suits
Mid-career remote workers and solo founders earning $2,500/month+ who want a low-friction long-stay base.
Eligibility at a glance
- Stable remote income of $2,500/month
- Valid passport with 6+ months remaining
- Clean criminal record certificate
- Private health insurance covering the country
- Proof of accommodation (rental, hotel or invitation)
Watch out
- •No personal income tax — but limited digital infrastructure (avg 18 Mbps).
- •Healthcare is basic; medical evacuation insurance strongly recommended.
- •CBI program faces increasing scrutiny from EU and UK on visa-free access.
Insider tips
- •Best suited for retirees and HNW individuals, not active remote workers.
- •Port Vila is the only urban hub with reliable services.
How it compares
Compare with other popular digital nomad visa countries:
Frequently asked questions
Can I work remotely on the Vanuatu digital nomad visa?
Yes. The Self-Funded Residence Visa is designed for remote workers and self-employed professionals. Work rights for the broader country are: restricted.
How long can I stay in Vanuatu on this visa?
1 year initial, renewable. For retirees and high-net-worth individuals with proven foreign income.
Does the Vanuatu nomad visa lead to permanent residency?
Yes — time on the Self-Funded Residence Visa counts toward permanent residency, typically after 10 years.
What's the income requirement for the Vanuatu digital nomad visa?
Approximately $2,500/month in stable remote income. Exact thresholds are set in local currency and reviewed annually.
Want full cost-of-living, tax and lifestyle data?
See the full Vanuatu guide →Last reviewed Feb 2026. Always confirm current requirements with the official source above.