By the end of this guide, you’ll understand what the Kiribati Investor Visa is, how it differs from citizenship schemes, the step-by-step application process, legal requirements, and the economic context that shapes investment opportunities in Kiribati.

What Is the Kiribati Investor Visa?

Kiribati’s Investor Visa allows non-citizens to live in the country by making an approved investment. It’s important to note that Kiribati does not offer citizenship by investment, so this visa grants residence only—not a passport, as noted in the Investment Migration blog on Kiribati’s citizenship by investment program.

A Brief History: The 2004 Investor Passport Scheme

From 2002 until 2004, Kiribati ran an “investor passport” program that granted nationality in exchange for capital, which was later repealed amid concerns over document misuse, according to an ABC News report on the investor passport scheme.

Aftermath and Global Impact

Countries such as New Zealand explicitly refuse to endorse visas or entry stamps in passports issued under that old scheme, per Immigration New Zealand’s passport acceptance policy. This legacy still affects certain Kiribati travel documents today.

Who Qualifies? Eligibility and Requirements

Before you apply for an Investor Visa, you must demonstrate:

• An approved Foreign Investment Certificate from Kiribati’s Investment Promotion Division, which outlines permitted sectors and minimum thresholds—see the Foreign Investment Certificate service page
• Clean medical certificate
• Clean police certificate
• Proof of relationship for any dependents
• Payment of the prescribed visa fee

How to Apply: Step by Step

1. Secure your Foreign Investment Certificate (FIC)
2. Complete the Investment Visa application form
3. Attach medical and police clearances
4. Provide business-plan or proof of investment funds
5. Pay the visa processing fee
6. Submit everything to the Department of Immigration

Processing typically takes 8–12 weeks under the Immigration Act 2019 and its regulations[^1].

[^1]: The Pacific Islands Legal Information Institute provides the full text of the Immigration Act 2019, defining the processing timelines and administrative framework.

Legal Framework: Immigration Act 2019

The Immigration Act 2019 defines categories of residence permits, including the Investor Visa. It sets out grounds for approval, conditions of stay, and appeal rights for refused applicants.

Kiribati’s Investment Climate

Kiribati’s economy hinges on:

• Fishing licenses sold to distant-water fleets
• Copra (dried coconut) exports
• Emerging tourism projects

Fishing alone accounts for over 40% of government revenue, according to the CIA World Factbook.

Mobility and Visa Policies Post-Investment

Even after securing residence, you must follow Kiribati’s general visa rules if you travel abroad:

• Visa-free entry for citizens of certain Pacific Alliance countries
• Visa on arrival available to some nationals for up to 30 days
• Extensions require local Immigration Department approval

These provisions are detailed in the Visa policy of Kiribati.

Exploring Opportunities Beyond Fishing

To diversify beyond traditional industries, Kiribati encourages:

• Renewable energy projects, especially solar, as outlined by UNDP Pacific’s green energy initiative in Kiribati
• Sustainable tourism along atolls
• Aquaculture and marine conservation ventures

These sectors benefit from government incentives tied to the FIC process.

Sailing Ahead with Confidence

Armed with a clear picture of the Investor Visa, its history, legal basis, and application steps, you can map out your move to Kiribati. The country’s reliance on fishing and copra shapes which projects get priority, but renewable energy and tourism are opening new doors. Whether you’re an entrepreneur or an eco-investor, this visa is your ticket to living—and investing—in the heart of the Pacific.