Operation exposes many foreign nationals operating illegally
May 5, 2025 10:09 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook
Compiled by Anita Roberts.
A joint operation involving the Immigration Department, Port Vila City Council (PVCC), SHEFA Provincial Government Council (SPGC), and the Vanuatu Police Force (VPF) exposed many foreign nationals conducting business illegally in Vanuatu.
A total of 53 officers from these agencies have worked together over the past two weeks to strengthen border security, combat national crime, and stop illegal business operations that violate PVCC and SPGC regulations.
According to the VPF, “459 shops in Port Vila owned by foreign nationals were inspected. A total of 756 passports were checked, and 20 were withheld from their owners, who must settle their immigration fines.
“Seventy-four businesses were issued spot fines for selling expired goods, lacking food safety measures, failing to maintain a safe and hygienic environment for food preparation, and for selling liquor without a licence.
“Sixteen stores were found selling liquor without a licence, and thirty-nine stores were found selling expired goods.
“Fourteen businesses were found operating without valid work permits under the Labour Act, while 19 individuals holding permanent residence visas, intended for investors, were found working in stores. Additionally, some individuals with tourist visas were also working in shops.”
The VPF conveyed that 56 penalty notices were issued to businesses for violating related work permits and visas.
“Under the Immigration Act, offenders have 30 days to resolve these fines; failure to do so within the given timeframe may result in being listed as prohibited immigrants and potentially deported from the country,” said VPF.
The estimated revenue collected from the fines during the major operation is VT10, 131, 373, however only VT2, 930,000 has been collected so far, with some businesses making full payments and others opting for installment plans within the given timeframe.
In its statement on the operation yesterday, the VPF thanked all officers who have participated in the operation. VPF added that there is also consideration for other agencies to join future operations.
