An IMGW News Report
Vietnam has joined the ranks of countries offering long-term residency to affluent foreigners and global talent, unveiling a 10-year “Golden Visa” as part of a sweeping effort to reposition itself as a hub for sustainable investment, tourism, and innovation.
The new visa offers renewable residency for high-net-worth individuals, skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and remote workers. Applicants must demonstrate a tangible contribution to Vietnam’s economy or innovation landscape. Unlike short-stay tourist visas or business permits mired in bureaucracy, the Golden Visa promises long-term stability for individuals and their families, with streamlined renewals and fewer procedural hurdles.
“Visa-free access has already been extended to citizens of 13 countries, including the UK, France, Germany, and Japan…”
Officials are betting on this reform to bolster Vietnam’s post-pandemic rebound, which has already seen robust growth in visitor numbers. In the first four months of 2025 alone, 7.67 million tourists entered the country – a 23.8% increase year-on-year. China, South Korea, Taiwan, and the U.S. remain the leading source markets, but European arrivals are rising fast thanks to expanded visa waivers and digitised entry processes.
Beyond tourism, Vietnam is positioning itself as an expat-friendly destination. Urban centres like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang offer relatively low living costs, international schools, quality healthcare, and a dynamic lifestyle that blends tradition with modernity.
The policy complements Vietnam’s broader strategic pivot. Visa-free access has already been extended to citizens of 13 countries, including the UK, France, Germany, and Japan, with additional waivers now being explored for visitors from the Middle East and Latin America.
Industry insiders view the move as an astute play to capture mobile talent and capital in an increasingly competitive global market. Martin Koerner of The Anam resorts called the expansion of visa options “a powerful signal” that Vietnam is open for long-term engagement.
As Vietnam accelerates its global promotion campaigns, the golden visa could prove more than a bureaucratic update – it may signal the country’s readiness to ascend as Southeast Asia’s next serious contender in the race for talent, tourism, and transformation.
