Hot: Proposal about “Golden Visa” for Vietnam

The Tourism Advisory Board of Vietnam (TAB) on their letter to the Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on March 25, 2025 proposed certain solution for tourism promotion, which include a proposal for issuance of “golden visa” valid for up to 5 – 10 years that can be extendable.

The “golden visa” is a type of long-term visa that gives its holders several benefits, such as unlimited entries and exits, ability to establish companies, invest, and reside in Vietnam for long term. This visa is targeted at affluent individuals, retirees, experts, and investors.

👉Check current Vietnam visa type here.

Timing for Golden Visa Implementation in Vietnam

Herbert Laubichler-Pichler, CEO of Alma Resort Cam Ranh, stated that “this is the perfect time for Vietnam to issue a golden visa.” Many international guests staying at his resort in Khanh Hoa have expressed a desire to remain in Vietnam longer or visit regularly, often hindered by visa issues.

There are several reasons that foreigner would like to remain in Vietnam for longer term, including:

1. Many global travelers are becoming bored of overdeveloped tourist destinations and are seeking what Vietnam offers—rich culture, natural beauty, and attractive investment opportunities.
2. Vietnam has improved healthcare services which now include international-standard hospitals and clinics in major cities, advanced medical equipment, and internationally trained doctors. These developments make Vietnam an appealing destination for retirees and long-term residents as they don’t need to travel elsewhere for quality healthcare.

Strategic Importance of the Golden Visa for Vietnam

Jimmy Tran, Sales and Marketing Director at Azerai Resorts, emphasized that introducing a golden visa would mark a critical turning point for Vietnam’s position in the global luxury hospitality market. He described the proposal as timely and visionary, transforming Vietnam from a short-term travel destination into a long-term residence for high-net-worth individuals and global professionals seeking both leisure and investment opportunities. The long-term nature of the golden visa provides international guests with a sense of security, aligning with the expectations of the premium market.

On a national scale, Jimmy believes the policy would boost foreign direct investment (FDI) in the luxury hotel, real estate, and resort sectors, creating abundant employment opportunities for locals and elevating Vietnam’s reputation as a high-end lifestyle destination.

Challenges and Cautions in issuance of Golden Visa

Experts also highlight potential risks, such as rising real estate prices and the misuse of the visa for money laundering. They emphasize the need for strict standards and careful screening when issuing golden visas in Vietnam.

Pham Hai Quynh, Director of the Asia Tourism Development Institute, suggested that recipients should have significant assets or real estate, high spending capacity for travel and experiences in Vietnam, and reputable careers or senior leadership positions in fields like technology, finance, or manufacturing. They should also demonstrate stable finances to ensure their ability to sustain their stay in Vietnam.

Nguyen Tien Dat, CEO of AZA Travel and Vice Chairman of the Hanoi Travel Association, added that recipients must prove they possess clean funds. Vietnam could initially pilot the golden visa program in select countries where visa waivers already exist, focusing on markets like Europe and North America. He also suggested Vietnam could adapt policies from Thailand while customizing them to local conditions.

Herbert proposed that applicants should demonstrate an interest in Vietnam’s traditions and community development. These qualitative criteria would ensure that Vietnam attracts individuals who genuinely respect and appreciate its culture, rather than those merely seeking visa convenience.

Pilot Implementation and Unique Identity

Experts recommend that the golden visa should not be implemented nationwide initially but piloted in well-developed destinations like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Phu Quoc, and Da Nang. During this time, Vietnam should enhance its service supply chain and workforce quality to improve global competitiveness.

Most importantly, Vietnam should not simply replicate what other countries have done but create a unique program reflecting its distinct strengths. “Vietnam is not just another destination in Southeast Asia alongside Thailand, Malaysia, or Singapore. Vietnam has its own identity, and the golden visa program should highlight this uniqueness,” Herbert concluded.

► Keep following us to get further updates!