The two fastest, cheapest donation citizenships compared — cost, speed, passport strength and tax.
Vanuatu and São Tomé & Príncipe are the two fastest, lowest-cost donation citizenships in 2026. São Tomé is cheaper ($90,000 vs $130,000); Vanuatu is faster, more established and has a stronger passport (~90 vs ~50 destinations). Neither offers Schengen or UK visa-free access.
| 2026 | 🇻🇺 Vanuatu | 🇸🇹 São Tomé |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum cost (single) | $130,000 | $90,000 |
| Typical timeline | ~1–2 months | ~2–3 months |
| Visa-free / VoA | ~90 | ~50 |
| Schengen Area | ❌ Visa required | ❌ Visa required |
| United Kingdom | ❌ Visa required | ❌ Visa required |
| Tax on foreign income | 0% | 0% |
| Process | Fully remote | Remote |
| Programme maturity | Established (since 2015) | Newer / less recognised |
Choose São Tomé purely on lowest upfront cost. Choose Vanuatu for speed, a more recognised passport, broader visa-free access and a longer track record — usually the better balance for a practical back-up passport.
General information only, not legal advice. Programme costs, timelines and visa policies change frequently; confirm current details with a licensed agent. Last verified 25 June 2026.
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