Vietnam is set to make a bold move in the global investment migration arena. In a recent announcement, the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (VNAT) has proposed the launch of a Vietnam Golden Visa, a 10-year residency permit designed to attract wealthy investors, digital nomads, and foreign retirees.
If approved, this would be Vietnam’s first formal golden visa program, placing it among a growing list of Southeast Asian countries offering long-term residency in exchange for investment or contribution. The proposed visa is part of a broader effort to boost Vietnam’s international profile as a destination for business, lifestyle, and long-term living.
What We Know About the Vietnam Golden Visa Proposal
According to the VNAT, the 10-year Golden Visa would be available to individuals who meet certain wealth criteria or are seen as having high income and long-term economic potential. Although full details are still being developed, the visa is expected to target:
•Foreign investors and entrepreneurs
•Retirees with sufficient passive income
•Highly skilled professionals and digital nomads
•Individuals contributing to Vietnam’s economic and cultural growth
The visa would allow holders to reside in Vietnam without the need for frequent renewals, giving them a more stable and secure legal status compared to existing short-term visas or work permits.
Why Vietnam? Timing and Strategy
Vietnam’s proposal comes at a time when global interest in long-term residency programs is on the rise, especially in regions offering affordability, lifestyle advantages, and economic opportunity.
Countries like Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia have already introduced similar programs with notable success. For example, Thailand’s Elite Visa offers long-term stay packages, and Malaysia’s MM2H (Malaysia My Second Home) program remains popular among retirees and remote workers. Vietnam, with its rapidly growing economy, affordable cost of living, and vibrant cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, appears poised to compete in this space.
The Vietnam Golden Visa aims to tap into this market by offering a long-term residency option in one of Asia’s fastest-growing economies. With Vietnam’s strong manufacturing base, growing middle class, and emerging tech ecosystem, it holds particular appeal for business-minded individuals looking to establish a foothold in the region.
Potential Benefits of the Vietnam Golden Visa
If implemented, the visa could provide numerous benefits, including:
•A decade of legal residency without the need for frequent renewals
•Access to healthcare and education systems
•The ability to open bank accounts, sign leases, and conduct business
•A legal framework for remote workers and digital entrepreneurs
•A clear pathway for families seeking regional stability
It may also provide tax incentives or special economic zone benefits, depending on the investor’s profile and type of contribution. For Vietnam, this could mean an increase in foreign direct investment (FDI) and a more diversified tourism and services sector.
What Happens Next?
The proposal is currently under review, with the Ministry of Public Security and other government bodies expected to weigh in on the structure, eligibility, and implementation strategy. If approved in the coming months, the Vietnam Golden Visa could be launched as early as late 2025 or early 2026.
Legal experts and migration advisors are closely monitoring developments, noting that clarity around income thresholds, investment minimums, and family eligibility will be essential for the program’s success.
A New Chapter for Vietnam
With this initiative, Vietnam signals its intention to join the global investment migration conversation, offering a compelling blend of economic opportunity, culture, and quality of life. Whether you’re an entrepreneur seeking a base in Asia or a retiree looking for peaceful, affordable living, the proposed Vietnam Golden Visa could be an attractive new option.
