We have listed below the main steps needed to be taken in order to start a business in Vanuatu. We can guide you through each of these steps. Our fees are based on time spent, as each persons requirements can vary markedly.

Vanuatu Foreign Investment Promotion Act requires all foreign investors obtain a foreign investment approval (VIPA) certificate as the first step in the investment process.

VIPA approval - this is basically an overview of your investment:

• Type of business
• Have you reserved a business name
• Do you have a police clearance
• Do you have sufficient funding, along with a projected cashflow
• A copy of your passport
• A copy of your Business Plan
• A copy of your plan for training Ni-vanuatu workers.

The Immigration Department is responsible for issuing residency permits to foreign investors.

To obtain a residence permit for the first time you have to submit the duly completed application along with a VIPA certificate, Police clearance, copy of your passport, birth certificates, medical certificate and passport photos.

Vanuatu Companies Act regulates the formation of a “local limited liability company” which enables you to conduct business in Vanuatu. If you do not want to form a limited liability company you may choose to operate a business as a sole proprietorship or as a partnership in which case you only need to register your business name.

The Business License Act regulates the issuing of business licenses throughout the country and no person can carry on a business without a license. Licenses are issues for a maximum period of 12 months and must be renewed annually.

A value added tax (VAT) is the primary method used by the Government to raise revenue. Businesses must register for VAT if their turnover is going to be in excess of VT4 million per annum. The VAT rate is 12.5%.

Once you start up your business, you have to register as an employer under Vanuatu National Provident Fund (VNPF). Then monthly deduct 4% from your employees wages, the employer also contributes 4% and the total is remitted to the VNPF.