Vietnam’s Tourism Body Proposes To Launch 10-Year Golden Visa

In a proposal submitted to Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh in March, Vietnam’s Tourism Advisory Board (TAB) suggested the introduction of a “Vietnam Golden Visa” valid for five to 10 years and renewable, compared with the current one- to two-year visa options. To stay ahead in the region’s competitive tourism scene, TAB is targeting international experts, wealthy investors, and skilled professionals.

Why Now?

Let’s start with the numbers. Vietnam welcomed 17.6 million international visitors in 2024, a strong rebound that nearly reached its pre-pandemic peak. Tourism is clearly back. But neighboring countries aren’t standing still.

Thailand has already launched a 10-year Long-Term Resident (LTR) visa. Malaysia revived its “Malaysia My Second Home” program. Indonesia is testing long-stay visa models aimed at remote workers and retirees. In contrast, Vietnam’s existing visa system, while improved with its 90-day e-visa, still lags behind in offering longer-term residency options.

The TAB’s message? If Vietnam wants to stay relevant and attract the kinds of visitors who build businesses, invest in communities, and contribute to innovation. Then it needs to offer more than just beautiful beaches and affordable food. It needs a pathway for people to put down roots.

What Is Vietnam Proposing?

The Golden Visa would grant 5 to 10 years of multiple-entry access, designed to attract three key groups:

• Global investors – individuals willing to bring capital and business into Vietnam’s growing economy.
• Skilled professionals and talent – experts in industries like tech, education, healthcare, and green energy.
• Affluent long-term travelers and retirees – those looking to make Vietnam their second (or primary) home.

The visa would likely offer a renewable option and may even include a track to permanent residency. Something that’s been notoriously difficult to access under current regulations.

Unlike existing DT visas, which require large capital commitments (upwards of US$120,000 for a one-year visa), this new visa aims to lower the barrier to entry. Especially for people who bring value beyond just money, think entrepreneurs, remote workers, researchers, creatives, and more.

A Digital-First Experience

If there’s one thing Vietnam has been learning fast, it’s how to digitize bureaucracy. The Golden Visa application, if approved, is expected to be fully online, reducing paperwork and eliminating embassy visits. This aligns with Vietnam’s recent push to modernize its immigration system, including the successful expansion of e-visas in 2023.

Think: applying from anywhere, tracking progress online, and receiving long-term visa status without jumping through endless hoops.

Where Would It Be Piloted?

The proposal recommends piloting the Golden Visa in four key locations:

• Hanoi – the cultural and political capital, home to major universities and startups.
  
• Ho Chi Minh City – Vietnam’s economic powerhouse, where many foreign businesses already operate.
  
• Da Nang – a rising star for digital nomads, known for its beach lifestyle and growing tech scene.
  
• Phu Quoc – Vietnam’s island paradise, already designated as a special economic zone.
  

Each of these destinations offers not just natural appeal, but the infrastructure and community to support long-term living — including international schools, hospitals, co-working spaces, and a growing network of expats.

What’s in It for Vietnam?

From a national perspective, the Golden Visa isn’t just about tourists staying longer. It’s a calculated move to:

• Attract investment into sectors like real estate, tourism infrastructure, and green tech.
  
• Fill skill gaps in high-demand industries with international expertise.
  
• Diversify the economy, reducing overreliance on short-term visitors and seasonal trends.
  
• Build soft power through cultural exchange and global community engagement.
  

More importantly, it signals that Vietnam is ready to compete not just for travelers, but for minds, talent, and capital.

Are There Risks?

Of course. Any policy that opens the doors wide needs guardrails.

Critics point to potential issues like real estate speculation, money laundering, or visa misuse. That’s why the proposal includes recommendations for careful vetting — including background checks, proof of income or assets, and evidence of contribution (whether financial or professional).

There’s also the question of integration: how will long-term visa holders be supported? Will they have access to healthcare, banking, or even language resources?

These are details that would need to be ironed out before a full rollout.

What Happens Next?

The ball is now in the government’s court. If the Prime Minister and related ministries approve the proposal, we could see a pilot version launch in late 2025 or early 2026. It’s still early days — but momentum is building.

In the meantime, tourism and business communities are watching closely. The move is seen as a sign that Vietnam is opening not just its borders, but its mindset toward the global future.

Final Thoughts

Vietnam has always been a place that pulls people in, with its food, history, landscapes, and warmth. But now, it’s evolving into something more.

This proposed Golden Visa isn’t just a policy tweak. It’s an invitation. To live, to build, to belong.

Whether you’re an investor, a creative, a tech expert, or someone simply looking for a new place to call home, Vietnam may soon be saying: you’re welcome here — and you can stay a while.

Got more visa questions? My Vietnam Tours offers fast, reliable service with a 100% refund guarantee if your visa isn’t approved. Check out more travel benefits when booking a tour with us here.

>> Read More: How To Apply For Vietnam E-Visa