A practical starting point for assessing a business, development or commercial opportunity in the Republic of Vanuatu.
The Vanuatu Foreign Investment Promotion Agency identifies a Foreign Investment Registration Certificate as the first step for foreign investors doing business in Vanuatu. The precise approvals and supporting documents depend on the activity and structure.
Test demand, logistics, labour, utilities, insurance, funding, foreign exchange and exit assumptions before committing capital.
Confirm whether foreign investment registration, company registration, business licensing, residence or work permits and sector approvals apply.
Engage qualified Vanuatu legal, accounting, banking, technical and industry advisers at the appropriate stage.
Document the proposed activity, ownership, capital, site, employment and operational plan.
Obtain advice on company, partnership, joint venture or other structures and their tax and governance consequences.
Complete foreign investment and corporate registrations with accurate supporting documentation.
Complete business licensing and any planning, building, environmental, immigration or sector-specific processes.
VFIPA describes the FIRC as the first step for a foreign investor doing business in Vanuatu. Its current application information asks applicants to prepare the proposed activity and supporting material such as business details, investor identification and, where relevant, police clearance, land documents, acquisition documents or environmental information.
VFIPA's business-startup guidance places foreign investment registration first, followed by company or business registration and business licensing, with tax, immigration, employment and other steps applying according to the proposed operation.
Do not assume every activity follows exactly the same approvals. Sector restrictions, location, land access, environmental effects and foreign personnel can change the requirements.
A FIRC does not replace company registration, a business licence or any sector-specific approval. Foreign investors should also confirm ongoing reporting and renewal obligations with the agencies responsible for their structure and activity.
Published processing times should be treated as estimates rather than promises; incomplete or complex applications can take longer.
Official sources: VFIPA — Investment Approval / FIRC · VFIPA — How to Set Up a Business · VFSC — Register a Local Company.
Share your objectives and receive a structured initial response.