Vietnam has launched a revolutionary golden visa program that offers elite, decade-long residency combined with unparalleled opportunities for wealth creation, strategic investment, and seamless cultural integration—empowering visionary global leaders and innovators to live boldly, drive innovation, and build lasting legacies in one of Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing economies.

Vietnam Introduces Golden Visa Program Offering Long-Term Residency for Foreigners

Vietnam has recently unveiled an exciting new “golden visa” initiative designed to attract long-term foreign residents by allowing stays of up to ten years. This move, part of a broader strategy to boost tourism, investment, and skilled migration, offers three distinct visa types targeting different groups: long-term tourists, investors, and talented professionals seeking to establish roots in Vietnam.

The proposal, put forward by the Vietnam Tourism Advisory Board in a formal letter to the government, aims to encourage foreign professionals, artists, investors, and other valuable contributors to live and work in the country more easily. The tourism sector, a critical pillar of Vietnam’s economy, continues to thrive, with the nation welcoming 7.67 million international travelers in the first quarter of 2025—a nearly 24% increase compared to the same period last year.

Overview of Vietnam’s New Visa Options

Vietnam’s golden visa program will consist of three main categories tailored to meet the needs of various applicants:

• Golden Visa: Valid for five to ten years with the possibility of extension for one or two additional years. This visa is geared toward long-term tourists and individuals who want to stay in Vietnam for extended periods without seeking permanent residency immediately.
• Investor Visa: Valid for ten years, this visa option targets foreign investors. Those holding an investor visa may apply for permanent residency after five years of continuous living in Vietnam, opening the path to long-term settlement and business opportunities.
• Talent Visa: Designed for skilled professionals in certain priority fields, this visa is valid for five years with a straightforward renewal process. It is ideal for experts and specialists who wish to contribute to Vietnam’s growing economy and extend their stay beyond the initial term.

Application Process and Eligibility

While detailed eligibility criteria for these visas are yet to be fully disclosed by the Vietnamese government, the announcement indicates a streamlined and largely online application process. This digital approach aims to make applying more accessible and efficient by eliminating the need for in-person visits to embassies or consulates, thus saving applicants valuable time and resources.

Pilot Programs in Key Vietnamese Cities

To successfully implement this visa initiative, the Vietnam Tourism Advisory Board has recommended pilot programs in select cities and provinces known for their appeal to foreigners and vibrant economies. These include:

• Phu Quoc: A beautiful island destination gaining popularity for its beaches and resorts
• Ho Chi Minh City: The bustling southern economic hub of Vietnam
• Hanoi: The historic and political capital in the north
• Da Nang: A rapidly developing coastal city with growing tourism infrastructure

These locations offer favorable living conditions and existing foreign communities, making them ideal testing grounds for the golden visa program.

Simplification of Other Visa Processes

Alongside the introduction of long-term visas, Vietnam has recently simplified visa application procedures for tourists and business travelers. This overall effort reflects the country’s commitment to enhancing international access and positioning itself as a welcoming destination for both short-term visitors and long-term residents.

Living in Vietnam: What to Expect

Vietnam boasts stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and renowned hospitality. From the terraced rice fields of Sapa to the majestic limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay, the country’s scenic beauty is world-famous. But living in Vietnam offers a different experience from tourism, blending traditional charm with modern growth.

The southern regions of Vietnam enjoy warm weather year-round and offer an affordable cost of living, particularly when compared to Western countries. Many foreigners find employment opportunities teaching English, a sector that welcomes native speakers and offers competitive compensation. Additionally, Vietnam’s diverse culinary scene, including a wide range of vegetarian and vegan options, is frequently celebrated by expatriates and visitors alike.

On the flip side, urban centers can be crowded and noisy, with traffic congestion and pollution presenting ongoing challenges, especially for those unaccustomed to Southeast Asian city life. Adapting to these realities is part of the expat experience in Vietnam.

Cultural Integration and Language Learning

For those planning a long-term stay, learning Vietnamese is highly recommended to foster deeper connections with local communities and fully appreciate the country’s vibrant culture. Compared to other Asian languages like Chinese or Arabic, Vietnamese is considered relatively approachable for English speakers, especially with modern language learning tools and local immersion opportunities.

Why Vietnam’s Golden Visa Matters

The introduction of the golden visa marks a significant milestone for Vietnam’s immigration policy and economic strategy. By enabling easier long-term residency, Vietnam is positioning itself as an attractive destination for global talent and investment. This visa will encourage a more diverse international community, fueling innovation, cultural exchange, and economic growth.

Furthermore, the program offers benefits for the tourism sector by attracting visitors who may extend their stay beyond traditional tourist periods, thereby supporting local businesses and communities more sustainably.

Final Thoughts

Vietnam’s new golden visa program opens exciting doors for foreigners eager to explore life in one of Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing economies. With flexible visa options tailored to tourists, investors, and skilled professionals, the country is creating a welcoming environment for those seeking extended stays.

Vietnam’s groundbreaking golden visa program offers up to ten years of elite residency and unmatched opportunities, empowering global visionaries to invest, innovate, and thrive in a dynamic economy.

Whether you are considering a scenic retirement, a business venture, or an immersive cultural experience, Vietnam’s golden visa initiative makes the prospect of living in this dynamic and beautiful country more accessible than ever before. As the program rolls out, it promises to shape the future of international travel and residency in Vietnam, strengthening ties between the country and the global community.

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