How can I travel from Australia to Aore Island Vanuatu? The most common way to travel from Australia to Aore Island Vanuatu is by air. There are several airlines that operate direct flights between major Australian cities with direct flight to Luganville Airport from Brisbane every Thursday or  via  Port Vila, 5 times a week with a short connecting flight of 40min from Port Villa to Luganville Airport.

Which airlines fly from Australia to Aore Island? Some of the airlines that fly from Australia to Aore Island include Air Vanuatu, Qantas, and Virgin Australia.

How long is the flight from Australia to Vanuatu? The flight time from Australia to Vanuatu can vary depending on the departure city and airline, but on average it takes around 3-4 hours. When going via Port Villa Airport, a short 40 minute flight from Port Villa to Luganville Airport which is  15km from Aore Island.

Do I need a visa to visit Vanuatu from Australia? Australian citizens do not require a visa for short visits to Vanuatu (less than 30 days). However, you will need to have a valid passport with at least 6 months validity remaining.

What is the best time of year to visit Vanuatu from Australia? The best time to visit Vanuatu from Australia is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. This is when the weather is cooler and there is less chance of rain.

Are there any travel restrictions or health requirements for visiting Vanuatu from Australia?  It is important to check the latest travel advisories and health requirements before visiting Vanuatu from Australia. As of now, there are no specific travel restrictions or health requirements for Australian visitors to Vanuatu, but it is always a good idea to stay informed about any changes.)

Looking for More information

Here are some Frequently Asked Questions about buying real estate in Vanuatu:

Can foreigners buy property in Vanuatu?

•  Yes. There are no restrictions on foreigners buying property. 

•   A non‐citizen may be required to provide a ‘financial reference’ and a ‘professional reference’ from a local firm, for urban purchases but that is the only distinction made between citizen and non‐citizen buyers.

•   You do not need a Vanuatu Investment Promotion Authority (VIPA) Investor’s Certificate or a business license to buy property in Vanuatu.

•  If your purchase also requires a business license (for example, when you buy an existing business) then you would need a VIPA approval and a business license in your name, or in a local company name.

Is there any freehold land in Vanuatu?

·       No. If a property is registered it is registered as a as leasehold title.

·        The urban areas of Port Vila and Luganville on Santo Island were declared ‘public’ land in 1980 under the Land Reform Act (Cap 123).

·        The Minister of Lands is the Lessor in the urban areas and in many rural leases where the customary ownership is not yet established.

Do I have to live here to own property?

·       No. There is no requirement for property owners or holders of Vanuatu residency permits to reside in Vanuatu.

What are the normal steps in buying property in Vanuatu?

·       Sign a Sale and Purchase Agreement & pay the deposit (usually 10%) into your agent's or solicitor's trust account.

·        Purchaser proceeds to meet any conditions in contract if any.

·       Vendor then applies for Lessors Consent to Transfer or arranges for a share transfer.

·        Pre‐settlement inspection of property or last-minute search of title is conducted by purchaser's side, if desired.

·       Settlement takes place. Documents usually handed over to purchaser include:

i.                     3 original Transfer of Lease deeds already executed by Vendors.

ii.                   Copy of Registered Title

iii.                 Settlement Statement

iv.                 Current Property Tax receipt

v.                   Current Land Rent receipt

vi.                 Tenancy Agreement (if applicable)

vii.                Company Documentation (if applicable)

 YOU ARE NOW THE REGISTERED OWNER (LESSEE) OF YOUR VANUATU PROPERTY.

What is the maximum term of a leasehold title?

·       The Constitution states that the maximum term of a lease is 75 years.

·       . Many leases are 50 years from their creation or from Independence on 30 July 1980

·        all new leases nowadays are registered for 75 years, including strata title leaseholds.

 When you buy a lease is it renewed at the time of purchase, or do you buy the term remaining?

·       When you buy an existing lease, you purchase the remaining term of that lease, not a new 50- or 75-year period.

What happens at the end of the lease?

·       In 2003 Parliament passed a law (the Land Lease (Amendment) Act No. 24 of 2003) enabling any urban lessee to surrender their existing lease title, and either extend a lease that is currently less than 75 years up to 75 years or,

·       where a lease is already for a period of 75 years, to renew the lease for a full period of 75 years from the date of renewal, upon payment of the requisite premium and administrative fees.

Is there any way to extend a lease when you buy, or at any other time in either the urban or rural area?

·       Yes. Lessees may surrender their lease either to subdivide land, re ‐zone (i.e.: residential to commercial; agricultural to tourism, etc) or to extend the term. (See Question 7 above).

·        ‘Premium’ payments and revised annual lease rents are likely to apply, which are negotiated between Lessor and Lessee.

Is it possible to buy apartments or shops on their own Strata title?

·       The Vanuatu Parliament passed the Strata Title Act in 2000 and also recently approved the Strata Title regulations.

·        This means it is now possible to strata title existing buildings and to create strata titles for new apartment and commercial buildings.

Do the commercial banks accept leasehold titles as security for loans?

·       Yes. Mortgages and ‘Cautions’ are registered on the leasehold titles as they would be on freehold and leasehold titles in other countries.

·        Banks typically require 20% for residential loans and up to 50% for commercial loans of the loan amount from the borrower.

How long does it take to complete a transaction?

·       It takes from 1 ‐ 3 months.

·       This varies depending on conditions that may be part of a particular transaction.

·       Any transfer of a property title requires the Lessors ‘Consent to Transfer.’

 What are the normal buyer's costs?

·       2% Stamp Duty 5% Title Transfer Registration

·        If the buyer is purchasing an existing company, the Stamp Duty is 4% on the Share Transfer Value, and because the shares in the lessee company are transferred, not the title itself, there is no 2% Stamp Duty fee.

·       Legals costs are usually between 0.5% ‐ 1. % of the purchase price.

 Has there been capital gain? If so, how much and where?

·       Residential property and vacant land capital gain has been best in prime areas such as the beachfront.

·       Ocean view areas with good water and sunset views and commercial property along the main beach in Ambuie Bay have also seen steady increases in market value.

·       In some places, 10 – 25% / year has occurred while in other prime areas, less than 5% / year.

 Is it easy to rent out property?

·       Good property typically rents well.

·       There are many aid organizations and private foreign companies who prefer to rent for 1 ‐ 3-year contracts rather than buy.

·       Typically, a good standard family home would rent for AUD 1,200 to AUD 2,000 per month, and sometimes higher.

 Is it possible to find good property management?

·       Yes. Our company has been doing property management of houses and commercial buildings.

·       This usually costs a maximum of 7% of gross income plus VAT.

Are there qualified builders in Vanuatu?

·       There are several companies in Santo and on Aore Island with qualified builders.

·       As in any other country it is important to select a builder carefully and to see other jobs they have done.

 If I want to build my own house, do I need any permissions or approvals, or do I need a business license?

·       No. Not to do the building for yourself on your own land title.

·       You will still need to obtain your planning permission and building permit, and you will need to register as an employer with the VNPF (the Vanuatu National Provident Fund) if you hire any workers.

What does it cost to build a good house in Vanuatu?

·       Naturally, this varies from builder to builder, but a good guide is about AUD 1,200 ‐ 1,800 (depending on exchange rate VT 130,000 – 180,000) per m². 

·       Obviously where more luxurious fixtures and fittings are used, this price will be higher.

 What is the usual deposit when exchanging contracts?

·       10% per cent is the standard contract deposit when a sale agreement is exchanged between a buyer and seller. Deposits are held in trust, till settlement, usually by the vendor’s agent or solicitor.

Do I need to use a lawyer for conveyancing?

·       The law does not oblige purchasers to use a solicitor but for those contemplating buying property or a business it is wise to seek legal advice and representation, especially if you are entering the Vanuatu market for the first time.

·       Our laws and practices are likely to be different from your own country. 

Is VAT payable on housing sales?

 VAT (currently 12.5%) is not payable by the purchaser on residential property.

 VAT is payable by a builder if he sells a house he has built or if a property developer creates a land subdivision for sale.

 Is VAT payable on all commercial transactions?

·       As a rule, VAT is payable by the purchaser on the sale of commercial property. He can then claim back the VAT if he is a registered VAT entity. A ‘one – off’ sale of a commercial property where the seller is not registered for VAT and has not claimed back VAT for expenses on the property may not be subject to VAT.

·       Also, a sale where the vendor has already de‐registered from VAT is not subject to VAT.

·       Specific enquires should be made to the VAT Office, or to a solicitor or accountant accustomed to dealing with VAT issues.

What are the usual outgoings on property in Vanuatu?

·       Municipal Property Tax (in the Urban Zones) paid every six months.

·       Annual Lease/Rates (‘Ground’) Rent average for 1 acre about $500 AUD 

·       Insurance

·       Rent Tax on Residential Rental property (or VAT on commercial). This is 12.5% of gross income.

 How is property sold in Vanuatu? (i.e., Auction; Private Treaty; Tender)

·       Most property is sold by Private Treaty or Tender.

·       No auctions occur.

·       Occasionally the ‘Expressions of Interest’ method is used, especially for a project or subdivision not yet done, but approved, where the developers wish to determine the level of interest in their project.

What do I need to do to reclaim land or build a jetty.

To reclaim land on the waterfront boundary of any property, you require: ‐

                1. Foreshore Development Act approval (Minister of Internal Affairs).

             2. Negotiator Certificate from the Minister of Lands.

             3. Lessor’s approval if land is rural, or the Minister of Lands is not the Lessor.

             4. Municipal Planning Permission in the urban areas.

             5. Provincial Government Planning permission in the rural areas.

             6. An environmental impact study may be required for a commercial or tourism project.

             7. A jetty will require Department of Ports & Marine approval.

Can I put a yacht mooring anywhere?

·       Yacht moorings are marked on a grid pattern within Port Vila Harbour. 

·       The Department of Ports & Marine should be consulted about any rules and fees for mooring anywhere else in the country.

Can sale agreements be done in any currency, or only in vatu?

·       Private parties can agree to a sale in any currency acceptable to both sides.

·       There are no restrictions in sending foreign currency into or out of Vanuatu.

What happens if someone tries to sell me land in the rural area that has no registered title over it?

·       Any land area with no registered title cannot be sold because there is actually nothing legally existing to sell.

·        The majority of land in Vanuatu is unregistered or Indigenous land, and the legal ‘customary’ owner(s) has not been established in many areas.

·       A leasehold title must be registered before a transfer (sale) can take place.

·       An undisputed Lessor is absolutely necessary in order to create and register a lease.

·        We strongly advise all potential investors not to enter into any agreement or pay any money to anyone in such circumstances without first seeking legal or professional advice.

 What do I need to insure my property?

·       Insurance will cost about 0.5% to 0.7% of insured value.

·       You will need an engineer’s certificate to obtain cyclone insurance.

·        Other perils such as fire, earthquake, theft, burglary, etc are also covered in standard policies.

·        Public liability, workers compensation, loss of rental income and so on is also available. Contact the local brokers and insurance companies for further details.

Are there any restrictions if I am a foreigner and I want to sell my property in Vanuatu?

·       There are no restrictions.

·        If a vendor is up to date with his outgoings to the local authorities, and lease rent to the Lessor, he will be able to obtain the Lessors Consent to Transfer the title.

·       Encumbrances such as a Mortgage is discharged at settlement as typically happens in other countries.

What are the vendors’ costs in a sale transaction?

·       The vendor has no costs except agents’ commission and legal fees if a solicitor is used.

·       There are no fees or taxes on the sale unless VAT is applicable.

 NB: Laws, Government regulations and fees may be subject to change from time to time. It is advisable to seek advice as to the current situation from the Government departments concerned or from qualified private companies.

What types of homes are common in Vanuatu?

• Traditional homes in Vanuatu are typically made of bamboo, thatch, and wood. Modern homes  are constructed with more modern materials such as concrete, imported timber and roofing iron.

What are some typical features of homes in Vanuatu?

• Many traditional homes in Vanuatu are raised off the ground on stilts to prevent flooding and improve air circulation. Modern homes are often have open, breezy designs with large windows and doors.

Are there any specific architectural styles unique to Vanuatu?

• The most common architectural style in Vanuatu is known as a "nakamal", which is a communal gathering space typically used for cultural ceremonies and meetings. These structures are often open-sided and have a thatched roof.

Do homes in Vanuatu have electricity and running water?

• In rural areas of Vanuatu, access to electricity and running water may be limited. However, in more urbanized areas, all homes have access to these modern amenities with solar being readily available and cheap.

Are there any eco-friendly building practices used in Vanuatu?

• Many traditional homes in Vanuatu are built using sustainable materials such as bamboo and thatch. Additionally, some modern homes incorporate eco-friendly design features such as rainwater harvesting systems and solar panels.

How have modern influences impacted the style of homes in Vanuatu?

• Modern influences have led to the use of more durable and modern materials in home construction, as well as the incorporation of Western design elements. However, traditional building techniques and styles still remain prevalent in many areas of Vanuatu.

A resident visa allows a foreign national to live and work in Vanuatu for a specified period of time, typically up to ten years. It does not grant the individual citizenship or the right to vote in elections.

Citizenship, on the other hand, grants the individual full rights and privileges as a legal member of the country, including the right to vote, run for office, and reside in Vanuatu indefinitely. Citizenship may be obtained through birth, marriage, or through a naturalization process, which typically requires a certain period of residency and other criteria to be met.

1. 15km to international airport, yet a sense of remotness. 

2. 2km by boat to township of Espiritu Santo 

3. Affordable land prices with room for capital gains

4. Relaxing atmosphere: Living on an island often means being surrounded by nature and beautiful scenery, creating a peaceful and relaxing environment.

5. Community feel: Island living often fosters a strong sense of community, as residents come together to support and connect with one another in a close-knit environment, however give you space if you request. 

6. Outdoor activities: With easy access to beaches, hiking trails, and water sports, living on an island provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and adventure.

7. Unique cultural experiences: Islands often have a distinct culture and history, offering residents the chance to immerse themselves in a different way of life and learn about local traditions.

8. Protection from urban sprawl: Living on an island can offer protection from the fast-paced development and urban sprawl that can be seen in mainland towns and cities, preserving the natural beauty and tranquility of the area.

There are several ways to get water in Vanuatu:

1. Rainwater harvesting: Many households in Vanuatu collect rainwater from their roofs by using gutters and storing the water in tanks. This is a common and sustainable way to get clean water. Water is very drinkable in Vanuatu.

2. Boiling water: If you cannot access clean water, you can boil water to kill any harmful bacteria and parasites that may be present.

3. Water purification tablets: These can be used to treat contaminated water and make it safe to drink.

4. Bottled water: If you do not have access to clean water, you can purchase bottled water from stores in Vanuatu.

5. Public water sources: Some villages have communal water sources, such as wells or springs, where residents can collect water for their daily needs.

Yes we have toilets we use a 

• Septic system. A septic system is an underground wastewater treatment system used in areas where there is no access to a centralized sewage system. It consists of a septic tank, which collects and treats the wastewater from the household, and a drainfield or leachfield, where the treated wastewater is dispersed into the soil. The septic tank allows the solids in the wastewater to settle and be broken down by bacteria, while the liquid portion is released into the drainfield for further treatment by soil bacteria. 

• A bio cycle toilet is a type of composting toilet that uses aerobic bacteria to break down human waste into compost. The composting process helps to reduce the volume of waste and eliminate the need for traditional sewage systems. Bio cycle toilets are often used in remote or off-grid locations where traditional plumbing and sewage systems are not practical or feasible. 

• A biogas system is a renewable energy technology that converts organic waste, such as animal manure, crop residues, food waste, or sewage, into biogas through a process called anaerobic digestion. Biogas is a mixture of methane, carbon dioxide, and other trace gases that can be used as a fuel for cooking, heating, electricity generation, and transportation. The leftover residue of the anaerobic digestion process, known as digestate, can also be used as a valuable fertilizer. Bio gas systems are a sustainable way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, decrease reliance on fossil fuels, and manage organic waste. 

Building in Vanuatu

Building in Vanuatu is a straightforward process, homes can range from simple living to luxury mansions either in traditional materials or imported. Process for application is straightforward. New homes built attract good capital gains returns.

How much is it to build in Vanuatu? 

·       Average cost - average price is $800 - $1200 sqm

·       Variables in cost:   Cost is dependent on materials and design (Local vs Expat style)

·       Exact quote – an architectural design must be provided for exact quotes.

What is the best material to build from?

·       Local style build – Bamboo, Local timbers, Palm roofing, Wild coffee

·       Expat Style - Steel, treated timber, block, Colourbond roofing

·       Natural building materials - bamboo, (Grass roofing)  

·       Cheapest build – Besser block

Are there builders in Vanuatu?

·       Local builders – licenced and excellent at local style coral homes, bamboo, timber, and brick. Very clever and experienced working in the environment.

·       Expat builders – can be sourced focusing on Australian style block & steel.

·       Commercial Builders – available locally and out of Port Villa

·       International Builders – Sourced your own & fly in (require work permit)

How do we know where our boundary is to build?

·       Cement Pegs - in the ground and a pole to show your boundary.

·       Fully fenced - marking the boundaries on some properties

·       Clearly marked - clearly marked with either fence posts or lot numbers.

·       Surveyors -  are available if you require further confirmation.

How do I get power?

·       Solar – Very effective and easy to use and install, a wide selection from huge systems to small camping style setups.

·       Solar Appliances - TVs, fridges, freezers, lights, chargers etc all can be purchased with their own solar panel and set up.

·       Solar imports - ship one from Australia or your country of origin. 

·       Solar is installed by licences electricians.

How do you get water?

·       Water well Prices depend on depth 3 metres (approx.)

-        Unlined Beachfront simple depth ($1000)

-        Lined Beachfront basic (starting from $1200)

-        Fully lined Beachfront POS depends on depth and size.

-        Water driller POA + transport

·       Water tanks – large variety of sizes and easily available

·       Cement underground storage – can be built to store substantial amounts of water.

·       There is plenty of rainfall, water is pure fresh and clean that fill both wells and tanks.

How do you get running water?

·       Solar Water pump

·       Petrol water pump

·       Gravity fed from water tanks on towers.

·       Bucket from water tank into house

What are plumbing requirements?

·       Readymade septic (plastic) – available at the hardware store

·       Custom septic (Cement and filter system with soaker system) built onsite.

·       Bush septic (Cement top with soaker)

·       Plumbing plans are required for permanent houses and short-term rentals.

Are there any restrictions for building?

·       Vanuatu is very relaxed with building.

·        Permeant building and short term rentals the following is preferred.

·       Two stories in island areas are the limit.

·       2 main houses on each property of permanent nature

·       Cyclone proofing for permanent and short-term rentals

·       Preferred to use Colourbond roofing.

·       Enclosed septic systems

What are the building application costs?

·       Building permit for building of a permanent nature

·       Application – House plans, site plan, plumbing plan

·       Pay the application fee starting from 500vt psm

Can you build below the high tide mark?

·       Permit is required from the dept of environment.

·       Jetty’s are included in this application

Are there roads to each of the properties?

·       Yes, all properties have road access.

·       Dirt roads are common with sealed roads in built up areas.

·       Jungle properties have roads 4wd access only.

Who maintains the road?

·       Built up areas - properties town the province maintains the roads.

·       Rural Roads - maintained by the owner of the lease that faces the road.

Does the area flood?

·       No, the soil is volcanic the area does not flood.

·       Tsunami are extremely rare in Vanuatu due to the deep water surrounding the islands

Does the beachfront area go underwater?

·       High Tide Mark – during storms tides come to the high tide mark.

·       Storm surge zone – permanent structures must be built beyond this mark.

·       Tidal surge – patios and BBQ area can be built in this area.

How do you get furniture & fittings in Vanuatu?

·   Hardware store supplies the basics you would need.

·       Local made furniture with local timbers.

·       Designer furniture – Port villa

·       Import custom furniture.

How do you get supplies to island?

·       Water taxi – for small to large items like timber, water tanks

·       Barge – Large items like cars, buggies, big items

·       Private boat – for smaller items

How much does it cost to transport materials?

·       $20.00 for short trips in boat 2 – 5 km

·       $30.00 for long trips in boat 5 – 10km

·       $80.00 for long trips in boat 10 – 20km

·       $20.00 in Ute short trips 2- 5 km

·       $30.00 in Ute long trips 5 – 10km

·       Dependant on how many trips what you are carrying and who you get the above is a guideline.

·        Most boats can carry a ton of cement and 1 cubic metre of timber

Can you hire tools in Vanuatu?

·       Supply your own tools – it is standard you supply the tools for your job unless specialised tools are required, in this case you can hire them.

·       Building contractors come with tools at a rate set by them.

·       Solar and plumbing contractors come with some tools but ladders and some things they ask you to provide.

·       Labourers do not come with their own tools you must supply them.

·       Hire tools – occasionally you can ask the workers to bring tools, they all have their own rate.

How many children on Aore Island? There is over 100 children of all ages from infants to teens

What is the life like for a child? children in Vanuatu  have the opportunity to grow up in a beautiful and natural environment, with opportunities for outdoor play and exploration. Traditional practices and cultural events are important aspects of everyday life for many children in Vanuatu, providing them with a strong sense of identity and belonging. 

What activites do childern do? Children in Vanuatu engage in various activities, including: Playing traditional games such as coconut bowling, hopscotch, and tag. Swimming and fishing in the ocean and rivers. Participating in cultural events and ceremonies, such as traditional dances and rituals.Attending school and participating in educational activities. Helping their families with farming and household chores. Playing sports such as soccer, rugby, and volleyball. Exploring the natural environment, such as hiking in the forest and visiting waterfalls. Attending community gatherings and festivals. Engaging in arts and crafts, such as weaving and painting. Spending time with family and friends, socializing and building relationships.

 POTENTIAL BUSINESS THAT ARE WAITING TO BE DEVELOPED

TOURISM

• Watersports , Sunset cruises

• Glass & jewellery making with shop

• Electric Bikes

• Air Con Cafe & Book Shop

• Windsurfing tours or Learn windsurf

• Food delivery 

• Fruit Winery

• Internet cafe

MANUFACTURE

• Boat Building

• Barge that can fit a shipping container

• Kit Homes and Shipping container homes

• Natural Makeup

• Swim wear 

• Banana Fibre Silk

• Hemp products 

• Rattan Furniture

RETAIL

• Ice Cream Shop Vanuatu Brand Icecream

• Jam shop 

• Spare parts for cars - Auto pro

• Air Con Cafe & Book Shop

• Chocolate Shop with Local gifts

• Sushi Bar

• Aromatherapy/ Chinese herbalist

• Alternative healing

• Hairdressers 

• Nail Spa 

• Furniture Store 

• Tommy Bahamas type gift Shop

• Wholefoods Store

• Deli Cheese

• Fresh Salad Shop eat in or takeaway

• Seafood Resturant on the waterfront

• Beauticians 

• Tarot card reading and shop

• Variety Store thats better than 2 dollar shop

• Hunting Store

• Charter Boat Operator 

• Tour guide for trekking 

• Anything for Children

• Plant Nursery

• Outdoor cinema 

• Training in everything 

• Mobile Phone Store

• Computer Store

• Apple Shop

• Pet Training

FARMING & Agri Tourism

• Dairy Farm & Shop

• Chicken Farming

• Dairy with a shop 

• Agritourism 

• Mushroom Farming

• Micro Greens

• Tea Company & Chai

• Goat farming with shop

• Garlic Farming 

• Bee Hives

• Dragon Fruit 

• Black & Yellow  Sapote 

• Oyster Farming

• Duck Farming

• Berry Farming

• Coral Seeding

• Lettuce Farming

• Spice Farm 

• Tropical Flower Farm

• Pomegrante Farming 

• Hemp farming 

• Cauliflower farm

• Tea Farm & Chai 

• Castor oil farming 

The currency of Vanuatu is the Vanuatu vatu (VUV)

. See here for latest exchange rate.