Vietnam
Vietnam Proposes 10-Year Golden Visa to Attract Global Talent and Investors. Vietnam has proposed a 10-year golden visa program aimed at attracting wealthy foreigners, skilled professionals, and long-term investors. The initiative, recommended by the Vietnam Tourism Advisory Board (TAB), seeks to offer renewable, long-term residency options to individuals who can significantly contribute to the nation’s economy, innovation, and tourism.
Golden Visa Framework Unveiled
The proposal outlines three key visa categories:
- Golden Visa (5–10 years): For general long-term residents.
- Investor Visa (10 years): With a pathway to permanent residency after five years.
- Talent Visa (5 years): Designed for professionals, artists, researchers, and innovators, with simplified renewal processes.
These visa categories aim to position Vietnam as a top-tier destination for high-net-worth individuals and professionals seeking stability in Southeast Asia.
Pilot Program and Policy Reform
TAB recommends piloting the golden visa scheme in major cities and tourist hotspots such as Phu Quoc, Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang. A Visa Policy Reform Board, including members from both public and private sectors, has also been proposed to oversee the development and implementation of the program.
Strategic Timing and Regional Alignment
This strategic initiative comes as Vietnam’s tourism sector shows robust signs of recovery. The country welcomed over 6 million international visitors in Q1 2025—a 30% increase from the same period in 2024. Tourism has now rebounded to 98% of pre-pandemic levels, with the government targeting 23 million foreign visitors annually.
Vietnam’s golden visa proposal mirrors similar long-term residency schemes already in place in Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia, positioning the country competitively in the race to attract global capital and skilled human resources.
Prime Minister’s Push for Flexibility
Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính has called for more flexible immigration policies, including short-term visa exemptions, faster approval procedures, and preferential treatments for select groups. These measures aim to make Vietnam more accessible and appealing to both tourists and long-term residents.
Key Considerations Ahead
Despite its promise, the golden visa plan must address several critical factors:
- Clear Eligibility Criteria: Defining robust yet accessible standards for investment and talent to ensure genuine contributions.
- Infrastructure Readiness: Improving healthcare, education, and transport systems to meet the expectations of foreign residents.
- Administrative Transparency: Ensuring efficient, transparent visa processing and support for long-term residents.
If executed successfully, the golden visa program could become a transformative tool for economic development, cultural exchange, and international collaboration.
For more information on Vietnam’s visa and immigration policies, visit the official immigration website: https://immigration.gov.vn
