Where Is Vanuatu, The Country In Spotlight Amid Lalit Modi Shelter Row? Here's How You Can Travel There
Modi, who is believed to have obtained citizenship of Vanuatu, a South Pacific island nation, left India in 2010 and has since been residing in London.
Lalit Modi, the founder of the Indian Premier League (IPL), has applied to surrender his Indian passport at the Indian High Commission in London, as confirmed by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
Modi, who is believed to have obtained citizenship of Vanuatu, a South Pacific island nation, left India in 2010 and has since been residing in London.
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He is sought by Indian authorities for his alleged involvement in embezzling crores of rupees during his tenure as IPL’s top official.
Also read | Vanuatu PM Orders Cancellation Of Lalit Modi’s Passport Amid Probe: ‘Attempting To Avoid Extradition’
How to acquire Vanuatu citizenship?
Vanuatu stands out from many European countries by not requiring residency before, during, or after obtaining citizenship, providing flexibility for potential relocators, according to a report by consulting firm Immigrant Invest.
The country imposes no personal income tax on its citizens, making it an attractive option for many. The quickest way to acquire citizenship is through an investment, starting from $130,000.
Vanuatu also offers citizenship to individuals who have legally resided in the country for at least 10 years. If an individual’s parents or grandparents are from Vanuatu, they may be eligible for citizenship. Spouses of Vanuatu citizens can apply for citizenship after two years of marriage and residency in the country.
How to travel to Vanuatu?
Vanuatu is easily accessible from various international destinations. Direct flights from Sydney, Australia, take just three hours to reach Bauerfield International Airport in Port Vila, Vanuatu’s capital.
Additionally, direct flights are available from New Zealand, Fiji, and various Pacific island nations, making access relatively straightforward for visitors from the region.
Vanuatu’s currency is the vatu (ISO code: VUV). It is used in the country’s three official languages—English, French, and Bislama. As per the current exchange rate, 1 Indian Rupee (INR) equals approximately 1.40651 VUV.
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