Citizenship by investment outside the European Union is attracting growing interest among Polish nationals as well as people living in Cyprus, particularly those involved in international business, remote work or cross-border financial activities. Key drivers behind this trend include fast processing times, no relocation requirements and lower overall costs compared to European citizenship pathways.
Within this context, two island nations are increasingly analysed: Vanuatu and São Tomé and Príncipe.
Citizenship by Investment in Vanuatu
Vanuatu has become one of the most recognisable jurisdictions offering fast-track citizenship by investment, especially for applicants prioritising speed and procedural simplicity.
Processing time
The Vanuatu programme is widely considered one of the fastest in the world. Once a complete application is submitted, citizenship can often be granted within 30 to 60 days. For Polish citizens and residents of Cyprus, the entire process can be completed remotely, without travel or physical presence in the country.
Costs and conditions
Citizenship is granted in exchange for a non-refundable contribution to a government development fund. For a single applicant, the minimum investment typically exceeds USD 130,000, with higher total costs for family applications. There are no language tests, no residency obligations and no integration requirements.
Passport scope and limitations
The Vanuatu passport provides visa-free or simplified access to a number of countries in Asia, South America and the Pacific region. However, its relevance for travel to Europe has diminished following the suspension of visa-free access to the EU, a factor often considered by Polish nationals and EU residents.
Citizenship by Investment in São Tomé and Príncipe
São Tomé and Príncipe represents a less familiar but increasingly discussed alternative, particularly for those seeking a more cost-efficient solution outside the EU framework.
Procedure and timeframe
The citizenship process typically takes around two months. As with Vanuatu, applicants are not required to relocate, reside in the country or attend the process in person, making the programme accessible to individuals permanently living in Cyprus.
Cost efficiency
One of the key advantages of the São Tomé and Príncipe programme is its lower financial threshold. Citizenship for a single applicant generally starts at approximately USD 90,000, making it one of the more affordable legally structured citizenship-by-investment programmes currently available. Immediate family members may be included under a single application.
Travel considerations
The São Tomé and Príncipe passport provides visa-free or e-visa access to selected countries across Africa, Asia and South America. While its travel reach is more limited than that of Vanuatu, it is often viewed as a pragmatic, functional solution rather than a mobility-focused passport.
Why these programmes matter to Poles and Cyprus residents
For many Polish nationals and residents of Cyprus, a second passport outside the EU is not a replacement for EU citizenship, but a supplementary tool. It may form part of a broader personal, financial or contingency strategy, particularly in an environment shaped by regulatory change and geopolitical uncertainty.
Vanuatu and São Tomé and Príncipe do not provide EU rights, but they appeal to individuals who prioritise speed, procedural simplicity and cost control over European mobility.
FAQ
Do Vanuatu or São Tomé citizenships provide EU rights?
No. These are non-EU citizenships and do not grant rights associated with European Union citizenship.
Who are these programmes suitable for?
They are primarily suited to individuals who value fast processing, no relocation requirements and controlled costs — such as international entrepreneurs, remote workers and cross-border investors.
Can Polish or Cyprus citizenship be retained?
Yes. Both programmes allow dual citizenship and do not require applicants to renounce their existing nationality.
