Vietnam's Prime Minister has proposed flexible visa policies to meet its 23 million foreign visitors target. The directive includes short-term exemptions, improved approval procedures, and preferential policies for certain groups.  The Government is also considering the introduction of a "golden visa" program that would grant foreign investors, retirees, and skilled professionals long-term residency of five to ten years. This initiative, proposed by the Vietnam Tourism Advisory Board (TAB) to Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính, aims to enhance Vietnam's appeal as a premier destination for long-term visitors and to stimulate economic growth through increased tourism and foreign investment 

What Does the Proposal Include?

The tourism advisory board’s proposal, submitted to Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, includes three special visa categories:

• A 5–10-year Golden Visa for general long-term stays.

• A 10-year Investor Visa that makes the way for permanent residency after five years.

• A 5-year Talent Visa with streamlined renewal, aimed at attracting skilled professionals, artists, researchers, and innovators.

To help the government assess viability, TAB suggested the visas could be piloted in major tourism hubs like Phu Quoc, Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang before a broader national rollout.

TAB has also recommended establishing a Visa Policy Reform Board, involving both public and private sectors, to review and implement new visa types and incentives.

Strategic Context:

Tourism rebounding to 98% of pre-pandemic levels in 2024 and welcoming 17.5 million international visitors, However, the recent visa policy changes already show signs of progress. The first quarter of 2025 saw over 6 million international visitors to Vietnam, the highest quarterly total on record. The first quarter arrivals were almost 30% above the same period last year. Accordingly, Vietnam seeks to maintain this momentum by offering more flexible and attractive visa options.

Vietnam's move aligns with regional trends, as neighboring countries like Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia have already implemented similar long-term visa programs to attract foreign capital and talent.

Challenges and Considerations:

• Eligibility Criteria: Determining appropriate investment thresholds and qualifications to ensure the program attracts genuine contributors to the economy.

• Infrastructure Development: Enhancing healthcare, education, and transportation infrastructure to meet the expectations of long-term foreign residents.

• Regulatory Clarity: Establishing transparent and efficient administrative processes to 

By implementing a well-structured golden visa program, Vietnam aims to position itself as a competitive and welcoming destination for long-term foreign residents, thereby fostering sustained economic growth and cultural exchange.

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