How to Buy Land in Vanuatu: A Step-by-Step Process to Purchase Your Property

Tahnia Cook
May 4
3 min read

Introduction: Why You Should Buy Land in Vanuatu

Buying land in Vanuatu for the first time can feel daunting, especially from overseas. At Coastal Property Group, we have guided both local and international buyers through the process many times, and we can tell you honestly: it is straightforward once you know the steps.

This guide walks you through the complete purchase process for one of our beachfront or riverfront lots in Port Vila from the moment you find a lot you love, all the way to receiving your registered lease certificate.

Aerial collage of tropical beaches and coral reefs with turquoise water and lush green forests. Clear skies enhance the serene beauty. — **Browse Coastal Property Group's full range of beachfront lots at** **coastalpropertygroup.vu**

STEP 1: Browse Our Available Lots

Start by exploring our listings at coastalpropertygroup.vu. We currently have a range of beachfront and riverfront lots available, including:

Beachfront Lots (Lots 5 through 36), direct coastal and riverfront access, multiple sizes
Le Life Resort a landmark development opportunity
Commercial Land for business and hospitality development

Each lot listing includes the title number, lot size, zoning, price in Vatu, and a survey plan so you know exactly what you are buying. You can also download our full price list directly from the beachfront page.

STEP 2: Contact Us to Express Interest

Found a lot that interests you? Click "I Am Interested" on the lot page or contact us directly:

📧 info@coastalpropertygroup.vu 📞 +678 5527046

We will answer all your questions, arrange a site visit if you are in Vanuatu, or organise a virtual walkthrough if you are purchasing from overseas.

Aerial views of beach lots with lush greenery. Text reads "Lot 5" and "Lot E." Clear blue waters and hills in the background. — **Lot 5 — 5,398m² with direct Epule River access. One of many lots available through Coastal Property Group.**

STEP 3: Engage a Vanuatu Lawyer

Before paying any money, engage a qualified local lawyer to conduct a title search. They will confirm:

The lease title is clean and unencumbered
Custom ownership status is clear
There are no existing disputes on the title
Lease conditions and permitted use are clearly defined

Coastal Property Group works with trusted legal professionals in Port Vila and can provide referrals to make this easy for you.

STEP 4: Sign the Sales & Purchase Agreement

Once your lawyer gives the all-clear:

You submit a formal offer
We negotiate and agree on terms
Both parties sign a Sales and Purchase Agreement
A 10% deposit is paid and held in trust

STEP 5: VIPA Approval (If Required)

Foreign investors may require approval from the Vanuatu Investment Promotion Authority (VIPA). The Vanuatu Government actively supports foreign investment, and this process is typically completed within 2–4 weeks. Your lawyer will advise if this step applies to you and will manage the application.

STEP 6: Survey & Valuation

All Coastal Property Group lots already come with a registered survey plan, which you can view on each lot's individual page. This gives you confidence in the exact boundaries of your land before settlement.

STEP 7: Lease Preparation & Signing

Your lawyer prepares the formal Lease Agreement, which includes the lease term (typically 50–75 years), annual ground rent payable to the custom owner, permitted use conditions, and renewal options. Both parties sign the lease before a witness.

STEP 8: Pay Stamp Duty & Fees

Before registration, you will pay:

Stamp Duty: approximately 5% of the purchase price
Registration Fee: a small government fee
First Year Ground Rent: payable to the custom landowner

Your lawyer will calculate exact amounts and manage all payments on your behalf.

STEP 9: Registration & Your Lease Certificate

Your lawyer lodges the signed lease with the Vanuatu Lands Department. Once registered, you receive your official lease certificate, proof of your legal ownership. From this point, you can build, develop, sell, or mortgage your land freely.

Aerial view of tropical beach with turquoise water, lush greenery, and thatched-roof buildings. Text shows residential lot details. — **Panoramic aerial view of premium beachfront lots and turquoise waters in Port Vila, Vanuatu.**

Typical Costs to Budget For

On top of the land purchase price, budget approximately:

Legal fees: VT 150,000–300,000
Stamp duty: 5% of purchase price
VIPA approval (if required): VT 50,000–100,000
Registration: VT 20,000–40,000

Discover Your Dream Property in Vanuatu!

Are you ready to own a piece of paradise? Look no further! Coastal Property Group is here to help you find the ideal property in the stunning islands of Vanuatu.