Vanuatu Withdraws Clerical Error Regarding CBI Eligibility for Russian and Sudanese Applicants

Just days after a fresh Vanuatu update appeared to hint at possible limitations for Russian and Sudanese applicants seeking entry through the Citizenship by Investment program (CBI), the Citizenship Commission has now fully rescinded that message.

In the amended correspondence, dated March 11 and sent to Prime Minister Jotham Napat, Commission Chair Charli Maniel clarified that the original wording was issued “in error”.

The corrected update explains that, following an internal audit, the Commission concluded that no additional countries were added to any lists tied to restricted or sanctioned jurisdictions that could affect CBI applications processed via Vanuatu.

The earlier advisory, dated March 9, was signed by Jack Kanas, Head of Compliance and Due Diligence. That draft asked CBI intermediaries to confirm whether Russia and Sudan should be treated as restricted nationalities within Vanuatu’s routine review procedure.

As soon as the first notice circulated, it sparked major debate across the global investment migration sector. Industry observers tried to determine what prompted the apparent shift and whether similar phrasing might appear elsewhere within the wider program. Some also suggested that, after restrictions introduced in 2023 connected to Caribbean-related developments, the number of Russian applicants may have increased.

Maniel’s follow-up letter directly addresses these concerns, confirming that the Republic of Vanuatu continues to accept eligible applicants from the Russian Federation and the Republic of Sudan under Citizenship by Investment—as long as they complete the standard, comprehensive checks required by the competent authorities.

Internal review and measures to avoid repeat issues

The Commission stated that it has initiated an internal review. Maniel noted that the assessment will examine how the “clerical error” took place and identify which controls should be strengthened to prevent a recurrence.

Alongside the correction, the Commission released an official statement that includes an expression of regret. It offers its sincere apologies to agents and other stakeholders for any confusion caused, while reiterating that the Commission remains committed to cooperation to protect the credibility and standing of Vanuatu’s Citizenship by Investment framework.

Daniel Aguies, CEO of VIMB Services Limited, said the quick reversal of the earlier note helps restore trust. While he acknowledged the situation is unfortunate, he emphasized that the prompt clarification provides certainty and reflects Vanuatu’s priorities: transparency, rigorous compliance, and long-term program stability.

Aguies also pointed out that, based on his experience spanning multiple years, Vanuatu’s method for operating a consistent and carefully supervised citizenship pathway has not changed.

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