Vanuatu, official name, the Republic of Vanuatu. (French: République de Vanuatu), is an island nation located in the South Pacific Ocean. The archipelago, which is of volcanic origin, is some 1,750 kilometres (1,090 mi) east of northern Australia, 500 kilometres (310 mi) northeast of New Caledonia, west of Fiji, and southeast of the Solomon Islands, near New Guinea. Vanuatu was first inhabited by Melanesian people. The first Europeans to visit the islands were the members of a Spanish expedition led by Fernandes de Queirós who arrived in Espiritu Santo in 1605. In the 1880s France and the United Kingdom claimed parts of the country, and in 1906 they agreed on a framework for jointly managing the archipelago as the New Hebrides through a British-French Condominium. An independence movement arose in the 1970s, and the Republic of Vanuatu was created in 1980. The Republic of Vanuatu is very popular in the community of entrepreneurs and people interested in doing international business. This is partially due to Vanuatu’s very relaxed tax laws, which are simple for business owners as well as regular residents. - Doing Business in Vanuatu

Real Estate In Vanuatu EscapeArtist.com Real Estate Marketplace Real Estate In Vanuatu South Pacific - Current Listings - Vanuatu is an emerging growth Nation which has gone unnoticed until now. The Republic of Vanuatu,  recently passed The Strata Title Act in 2005, which has been a major game changer. Before the act passed you had to be a native of The Republic of Vanuatu to own land  in Vanuatu. The Strata Title Act is a very important key that opened up the  market for international property investors in Vanuatu. Now foreigners can own land in this beautiful paradise. - Place A Video Of Your Vanuatu Property On Our Website - We'll Feature It In Our Magazine ! - Also see Real Estate in  Real Estate in Oceania & The Pacific Islands - Also see Real Estate By Type - Islands, B&B's, Plantations

Articles on Living & Investing in Vanuatu

Real Estate in Vanuatu South Pacific   - Escapeartist would like to introduce its readers to the beautiful country of Vanuatu in the South Pacific. Vanuatu is an emerging growth destination, which is now in the process of opening up to the rest of the World. Several factors make Vanuatu an ideal place to visit and invest in and in our interview with a prominent Vanuatu businessman I think you will see why Escapeartist has selected Vanuatu as one of the best destinations in the world for your retirement, business activities and investments. We interviewed Richard Butler who has over 35 years of property development experience in Australia and New Zealand. Mr. Butler’s first  visit to Vanuatu was in February 2008, just prior to the beginning of the current  global credit crisis. He was  marketing and selling luxury resort and residential developments for $1-3 million for two and three-bedroom luxury apartments on the Queensland coast of Australia and he knew the end was near. “The result of the these million dollar prices for concrete boxes had placed an enormous price increase of 20 to 25% per annum over 50 to 60 months. It has been said in recent Property Reports that any growth of 4 x 20% is heading for leveling in demand.”

Living in Vanuatu -  Vanuatu is filled with a number of restaurants, all offering some of the best in local cuisine as well as international fare, such as Asian, Indian, and Australian inspired meals. As well, the country’s historical ties with France are evident in the number of French restaurants and cafes around the islands. Vanuatu takes food extremely serious – aside from fresh fruits and vegetables, fresh seafood, and local beef; there is foie gras, escargot, and extremely appetizing desserts. Port Vila on Efate is known for its nightlife, having some of the best clubs and bars found anywhere in Vanuatu. It is possible for locals and visitors to mix and mingle at a local pub or discotheque. Vanuatu is also extremely rich in various cultural festivities that cannot be found anywhere else. This includes the death defying Pentecost Land Dive and the Tanna Toka Dance, which is known to go on for many days. There is also the mystical Rom Dance of Ambrym island of magic and fire, and the Water Music Custom Festival performed by the women who live on Gaua Island. Those who live in Vanuatu are able to take part in these amazing experiences and witness some of the most amazing rituals and cultural festivities.

Moving to Vanuatu   - Before moving to Vanuatu, it is essential to do all research to ensure full preparedness for the relocation process. For instance, the Vanuatu Customs Act provides the opportunity to bring personal furniture and electrical appliances into the country free of VAT (value added tax) and duty, if they have been owned for longer than one year. Individuals may have to provide proof of length of ownership, such as a receipt with the date of purchase. The act also permits individuals to import a mode of transportation, such as a car, motorcycle, motorbike, water borne craft, or even an airplane or helicopter. Much like personal effects, these must be owned for at least one year. All other personal items, such as clothes and liens are duty free. But they do need to be packed well and inventory. There is a chance that the Customs Department may require a physical examination of the box. To ensure protection, expensive personal goods, like clothing and shoes, should be placed in plastic bags and family heirlooms and jewelry should not be packed into the personal effects.

Technology in Vanuatu -  For tourists staying at any number of the hotels and resorts, it is important that you pack the necessary adapters with you – otherwise, you will not be able to plug in your laptop or cell phone charger to the electrical outlets. In Vanuatu, the electrical current is 220V to 240V, 50Hz AC and requires the use of Australian-style plugs in order to connect to electricity. For tourists coming to Vanuatu from other parts of the world, especially the United States, it is important not to use appliances that run on a 100 to 125 volt range in these types of outlets, or else the appliances will become severely damaged and might even create a fire danger. Protect your appliances and property by purchasing the proper plugs or appliance converters prior to visiting Vanuatu. Cell phone usage has drastically risen in the past few years, but Vanuatu is still new to the surge in use and popularity. In 2008, Vanuatu experienced the addition of a telecommunication company to the islands, creating competition for the first time in the industry of this type of technology. Telecom Vanuatu Limited offers mobile, landline and High Speed Internet services to the residents and businesses found through the islands of Vanuatu.

Vanuatu - Life in Vanuatu Video-  -  Vanuatu’s showcase 7-min movie presenting the country and the highlights of tourism in the six provinces. This film should give you plenty of reasons to explore the beautiful islands yourself. The blend of traditional culture (Custom or Kastom) and beautiful nature should be irresistible to any visitor! Vanuatu is located near Australia, New Caledonia, Fiji, Solomons and New Zealand. It is an Independent Republic since 1980. The archipelago consists of around 82 islands. Port Vila, the capital, is located on Efate island. A population of over 250,000 Ni-Vanuatu is spread over the islands in 6 provinces. Unspoiled nature and a traditional native culture of wonderful, happy, south sea islanders make it a fantastic territory to discover. The SHEFA province consists of: EFATE & the SHEPERDS islands. In this clip you see the sand drawings at the Cultural Center / Museum, the Mele cascades, the Roi Mata cave on Lelepa, the WWII artifacts in Port Havannah, fishing on the way to Nguna and Pele islands, banyan trees, coconuts for drinking, horse-back riding, relaxing on white sand beaches, sailing charter cruises, cruiseship in port, dolphins swimming, snorkeling, underwater post office at Hideaway island, tropical fish & corals, wrecks, dugongs, traditional sailing canoes in Epi, poulet fish, bats, kids in Sunday dress on Lamen island, Epi east coast, Tongariki island paramount chief ordination, Epule River tour, Secret Garden, Ekasup Cultural Village, string band, Vanuatu beef, parasailing, hotels & resorts, wedding ceremonies, lobster dinner, steaks bbq, casinos, cultural and Melanesian feasts.

	Vanuatu - Setting up a Business in Vanuatu Video
	Vanuatu - a special place to do business Video
	My Happy Place - Vanuatu Tourism Video
	Vanuatu Natural Thermal Hot Springs
	More Videos On Vanuatu

Private Trust Banking – 21st Century Offshore Banking- Imagine the setting: A beautiful tropical island, no clouds in the sky and palm trees gently swaying in the breeze.  Wealthy, well dressed people are sipping an exotic cocktail in the shade, their luxury yachts nestling in the harbor. An expensive car pulls up and a man with a white suit steps out with a large suitcase which he proceeds to take into the bank opposite the sidewalk. The scene cuts to the manager´s office where the well-dressed man clicks open the case to reveal stacks of 100 dollar bills …. A sly smile creeps across the manager´s face ….. A good setting for a 007 movie maybe, as well as being many people´s image for how the offshore banking industry works. However, that particular scenario does not exist – indeed it never has and the fact that it remains a popular idea in Hollywood movies and works of fiction only goes to prove how poor general understanding of the offshore industry actually is. MORE >>>

How To Bank Offshore

Investing in Vanuatu   - Vanuatu is a beautiful, Y-shaped archipelago that consists of 83 islands and covers more than 12,000 square kilometers. It is located approximately 1,700 kilometers east of the Australian coastline. In 2006, Vanuatu was voted “The Happiest Place on Earth,” because of its amazing white sandy beaches, beautiful volcanoes that are still active today, untouched lagoons and rainforests, consistent sunny weather, and a large abundance of various indigenous cultures, making it one of the most culturally diverse countries found anywhere on the globe. Combine that with no foreign exchange control, no income tax, as well as an independent judiciary, and Vanuatu becomes the premier location for investment right in the center of the South Pacific. Not only that, but current social and political problems occurring on other South Pacific islands, such as Fiji, Solomon Islands, and Papua New Guinea have turned investors toward Vanuatu as a highly viable alternative. Vanuatu boasts a very beneficial tax regime which is further enhanced by a number of unique features when compared with other finance centers. First of all, there is no income tax throughout all of Vanuatu. This includes exchange controls, death duties, withholding tax, and capital gains tax. Money can be easily transferred into any of the major currencies. The financial center in the country has been in existence for just about forty years. With a strong infrastructure of established trust companies, accountants, banks, and lawyers, it provides the opportunity to investors to receive top quality, reliable service right on the spot.

Vanuatu Joins the World Trade Organization -  There are different reasons countries decide to join with the WTO, but the biggest reason is that lowering import taxes and other obstacles should increase the overall volume of trade, raising the average wealth. Globally, the potential gains from cutting tariffs and lowering trade barriers are great. But for smaller, less developed countries like Vanuatu there is not much to gain, even if there is an improvement in overall global prosperity. Global trade rules are supposed to stop arbitrary changes in trade policy, thus making trade fairer for smaller LDCs, who cannot retaliate through trade wars. The laws are there to help balance the scales, so that the bigger and stronger economies do not dominate global trade any more than they already do. Tragically, smaller countries have little choice than to join the WTO, since most regional trade agreements must be WTO compliant, meaning that countries must accept WTO rules even if they are not members.  Since Vanuatu’s neighbors and trading partners are members of the WTO, Vanuatu is subject to the laws of international trade. They might as well have a voice, rather than having the rules being dictated to them by other nations. See Video - WTO welcomes Vanuatu as a new member

Relocating, Residency and Taxes in Vanuatu - People seek to establish permanent residency in Vanuatu because of two major reasons. Vanuatu is a tax haven and it also offers the most excellent and carefree tropical lifestyle. Aside from easy access to New Zealand and Australia, Vanuatu also offers one of the best and reliable international banking communities and fairly priced modern housing. There are various factors that may be common among every applicant who wants to establish their residency in Vanuatu. However, different steps are needed for those who want to  establish a business. However, residency permits are granted to employees, retirees, and investors. Investors who want to apply for residency permit in Vanuatu are required to apply to the Vanuatu Foreign Investment Board for approval. Retirees who are over fifty five years old can also qualify for a residency permit only if they present proof of their retirement  from their country of origin. Individuals who are in Vanuatu for employment purposes can also qualify for a one year residency permit. However, this type of residency permit can only be eligible for certain professions but it can be renewed annually.

Health Care in Vanuatu - Travelers to Vanuatu should also have international medical insurance. International insurance will cover selected medical costs should there be an emergency while on vacation – one important item to look for in an insurance policy is medical evacuation, which will transport patients to major cities in Australia and New Zealand, such as Brisbane or Sydney. In the event of a serious accident or trauma, patients will be flown out to such locations in order to receive necessary treatment from medical centres equipped to handle serious conditions and traumas. Another important factor in purchasing medical insurance – especially if you are visiting – is to find an insurance plan that pays for your expenses to travel home, in the event you need to leave Vanuatu unexpectedly or sooner than planned. While no one would like to think of being in a serious accident on vacation or suffering from a severe ailment or condition, preparation for such an event is always recommended. Medical evacuations are very costly, so an insurance plan will help lower potential costs. Residents may purchase private health insurance from local offices around Vanuatu to cover the costs of medical accommodations, ambulance, air transportation and treatments. The annual premium cost of private insurance depends on the age of the individual.

Doing Business in Vanuatu - The Republic of Vanuatu is very popular in the community of entrepreneurs and people interested in doing international business. This is partially due to Vanuatu’s very relaxed tax laws, which are simple for business owners as well as regular residents. This makes it very inviting for some businesses to move their practice to Vanuatu in hopes of maintaining a strong business with fewer restrictions. Vanuatu, with the introduction of new commercial laws in the 1970s, quickly became an international Financial Center, specifically in the South Pacific where it is located. The town of Port Vila is the main location for commercial business on Vanuatu, which is composed of a group of islands. In Port Vila, finance and banking are the major practices. A sudden expansion occurred in the area with the onset of the new commercial laws and has thrived ever since. Port Vila is the Vanuatu capital for support organizations and professionals. It has had such rapid growth, along with the rest of the islands’ economy, that it has become known and respected in the international business community.

Working in Vanuatu - Vanuatu, a South Pacific volcanic island, is a tropical island, with ancient culture and friendly people.  Vanuatu is the ideal place to live, and the living atmosphere relaxed, with time for the afternoon siesta for all employers and employees. The economic growth is strong with different work opportunities. Vanuatu’s economy is primarily agriculture based with beef, kava, copra and coconut oil making up over 75% of total agricultural exports.  Agriculture accounting makes up around 20%.  After agricultures, tourism is the next largest strength in the economy’ growth. Work Opportunities in Vanuatu - Vanuatu offers diverse opportunities.  There are government office, shops and restaurants, fishing, and the opportunity to open your own business. Business Hour in Vanuatu - Government Offices:  Government offices typically are open from Monday to Friday from 7:30 am to 11:30 am with a two hour break for a siesta or to eat lunch and run errands.  The business then reopens at 1:30 pm to 4:30 pm.  Some government offices  may be open on a Saturday morning. Shops:  Shops generally begin to trade at 1:30 pm and continue throughout the day until about 6 pm.  Shops are open on Saturdays until about 11:30 am, with the exception of Chinese stores, which are open all weekend.

Plantations In The South Pacific-Vanish To Vanuatu - The tale is told of a man who, during the 1930s, saw the winds of war about to blow over the world. Where could he go to get out of harm’s way, and live an enjoyable life? He chose the most obscure place he could find, and bought a copra plantation in the Solomons on the island of Guadalcanal just west of Vanuatu. Vanuatu was known as the New Hebrides Islands a condominium of France and Britain, until independence in 1980. It remains one of the world’s most out-of-the-way and, outside the capital of Port Vila, more backward countries. You’d think it might have gotten a jump start when, during WW II the Americans used the place in particular the town of Luganville on the largest island Espiritu Santo as their major staging area for the counter-invasion of the South Pacific. But the main things the GIs left were the raw materials for the John Frum religion and thousands of tons of heavy equipment whichin the best tradition of government thriftwas pushed into the ocean off what’s known a Million Dollar Point outside Luganville. It’s supposed to be a great place to dive, but I didn’t have time to do so on this trip, my third in five years. My purpose was mainly to look at real estate. That, and take the political temperature of the place.

Vanuatu - Island Living In The South Pacific - Vanuatu is a series of Islands situated between Australia and Fiji. Flying time from New Zealand and Australia is less than 3 hours on a late model Boeing 737’s flown and maintained by expats. Flying time to Fiji or New Caledonia is about 1 hour. We have standard digital phone and mobile phone service and the internet service extends to broadband. Your GSM mobile phone should “roam” here.  The economy istax-haven based and banking secrecy is extremely good.  The temperatures are such that we can swim all year round and we experience regular rainfalls so the countryside is perpetually green. The expat community is very friendly and makes potential new expats welcome. Overseas visitors are sometimes overawed when they first step on to an Air Vanuatu aircraft. When you arrive at Port Vila Airport you’re met by a string band.  As one American visitor said to me,  “I’ve  never been on a flight as friendly as that one before!”. The restaurants are great and many have the “French Cuisine” touch. Many visitors are drawn to the displays in the windows of real estate offices. They find the low prices of property quite unbelievable.  Up until the year 2000 the real estate market was very quiet and the properties that were selling were mainly in the lower price range. As from 2000 there were serious enquiries from Australia and New Zealand  and as sales were made prices started to rise. As of 2005 all of the cheaper initial waterfront blocks have been sold but the newer water front subdivisions which are higher priced are still set at approximately half the price of general South Pacific Island oceanfront blocks. The average oceanfront block on the Island of Efate (the main Vanuatu Island) now sell for US$200,000-US$250,000.