Vanuatu has launched new passports with improved security features 10 year validity, on the account of 39th independence day celebrations by the Prime Minister
The Ministry of Interior of Vanuatu this month previously announced that passports issued by Vanuatu will have new security features and validity is extended to 10 year lifespan. Currently Vanuatu passports issued, only valid for 5 years.
In an official statement, the ministry
“The Passport office under the Vanuatu Immigration Services (VIS) will be closed from the 17th -23rd July 2019. The planned office closure is to cater for an upgrade to the Vanuatu Passport. Technicians will work to upgrade the Vanuatu passports validity for a longer lifespan and will feature upgraded security features. The upgraded Vanuatu Passports will have a 10 year validity lifespan. New passport prices will be announced shortly.”
Under the Passports Act 2009, you must be a Vanuatu citizen to be eligible for a Vanuatu passport.
Vanuatu currently offer citizenship for investment scheme under DSP/VCP scheme for $150,000 subjecting all applicants to due diligence checks by the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU)
The Ministry of Internal Affairs is responsible for security in Vanuatu made it clear that that criminals do not take advantage of citizenship revenue programs managed by the Vanuatu Citizenship Commission.
The new passport design does not seem to have a biometric or e-passport chip for enhanced security features.
Image credit: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Vanuatupoliticalarena/
