Since July 1, 2025, Vietnam has changed the rules of the game. After 40 years of bans, the country has officially allowed dual citizenship – this no longer means giving up your native passport. And not only allowed it. She removed the language exam and abolished the mandatory 5 years of residence in the country. It is now enough for foreign IT specialists, scientists and investors with special merits to prove their value to Vietnam.
The new law is not a cosmetic change. This is a strategic reversal in economic policy. Until now, Vietnam has been one of the last single-entry citizenship jurisdictions in Asia. Now he has joined the global trend.
Who can get citizenship without unnecessary red tape:
- Internationally recognized IT specialists and scientists.
- Investors who make a significant contribution to the economy.
- People with Vietnamese roots (parents or grandparents).
- Minor children with Vietnamese parents.
The main condition is the ability to make a serious contribution to the development of the country. Specific criteria are spelled out in Decree 16, which sets out requirements for state awards, scientific achievements or projects in priority sectors.
Golden visa is now available in Vietnam
Vietnam has officially announced the launch of the 10–year Golden Visa, a long–term program designed for foreign investors, professionals and loyal tourists. Unlike the United States, where a similar visa costs $5 million, Vietnam focuses not on the super-rich, but on those who are willing to live, work or develop a business in the country on a permanent basis.
Key parameters of the new visa
- The validity period is 5 or 10 years, with the possibility of extension;
- Available to investors, entrepreneurs, qualified professionals, and digital nomads;
- Registration is completely online, without a visit to the consulate;
- A simplified filing procedure is expected for the applicants’ families.
The authorities expect that the program will strengthen Vietnam’s position as a center for life, business and tourism in Southeast Asia. According to the National Tourism Administration, 7.67 million foreign visitors visited the country from January to April 2025 (an increase of 23.8% compared to last year).
“Vietnam’s visa policy needs further improvements to stimulate the tourism industry and attract foreign investors and experts,” the government said in an official release.
Expert opinion
Experts note that the launch of the “golden visa” is a logical step against the background of the restoration of tourism and economic growth. Vietnam offers not only favorable living and business conditions, but also modern infrastructure, high-quality schools, medical facilities and affordable housing.
“Vietnam is becoming increasingly attractive to wealthy foreigners and professionals due to the economic boom and reforms in visa policy,” leading media outlets note.
The new visa is part of a strategy to reach 23 million foreign visitors in 2025. Competition with Thailand and Malaysia is intensifying, but Vietnam offers a unique combination of cost, quality of life and business prospects. An additional advantage should be flexible registration conditions (fully online). It is important to note that Vietnam relies on long-term residents and investors, not just short-term tourists.
What’s next
The new rules are part of a large–scale Resolution No. 57, adopted in December 2024. The document defines the development of science and technology as a national priority. The next step is to create a “special mechanism” to attract highly qualified specialists, including the right to own real estate and competitive salaries.
If everything goes according to plan, Vietnam wants to be ahead of its competitors in the high-tech sector by 2030. Dual citizenship is only the first step on this path.
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Our team of migration lawyers is ready to advise on the issues of long-term visas to Vietnam, selection of the optimal program and support at all stages. We are closely monitoring the program updates and are ready to help you complete the paperwork as soon as the conditions are announced. Leave a request for a consultation. Our experts will help you assess the prospects and prepare documents taking into account the latest changes in legislation.
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