The Vanuatu government introduces a bill in parliament to modernize issuance of ordinary and diplomatic passports under the Passport Amendment Act 2025. The bill after parliamentary approval will be published in national gazette.
Here are the brief summary of the proposed measures, aligning with global passport standards:
ICAO Standards – The Government is committed to modernizing the processing and issuance of passports and all travel documents to ensure compliance with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) requirements.
Committee – A Passport committee responsible for reviewing and developing the next series of Vanuatu passports
High Security – New security measures and introduce stricter protocols to prevent fraud, identity theft, and misuse of passports, which will strengthen national security
Diplomatic Passports – Diplomatic passports will be brought in line with Vienna Convention, as this will protect the integrity and enhance trust in the Vanuatu passport at international borders. The rules will be tightened under Foreign services act 2025, ensuring only Vanuatu citizens would be eligible for diplomatic and official passports. No diplomatic passports will be issued under citizenship by investment program.
Biometric Data – Biometric data will be collected from Vanuatu citizens and integrated into new passports securely. The information collected is kept confidential to prevent identity fraud and deter illegal activities.
Secure Storage – secure storage and handling of all blank passports before being issued.
Penalty – The Act prescribe penalties not exceeding VT5,000,000 or a term of imprisonment of not more than 5 year, or both, for passport offences
The new changes expected to restore trust and confidence in the Vanuatu passport, resulting in a positive long-term impact on the country’s economy.
