Vietnam is preparing a visa policy that could reshape how global professionals live and work in the country. A new draft decree proposes visa exemptions of up to five years for select foreign experts, allowing them repeated 90-day visits and access to residence documentation.
This move signals a shift in how Vietnam approaches skilled immigration, targeting executives, scientists, creatives, and influencers tied to national growth priorities. For those navigating international travel rules, the proposed changes introduce a clearer path to long-term presence in a key regional economy.
What Is Being Proposed
Vietnam’s draft decree outlines a visa exemption policy designed to support long-term engagement by foreign professionals in priority sectors. Under the proposed rules, eligible individuals would receive a visa exemption certificate valid for up to five years. Although each stay would be capped at 90 days, the exemption would allow for multiple entries during the validity period, offering flexibility for recurring travel or short-term relocations.
In addition to visa-free entry, qualified individuals would be eligible for a temporary residence card, which simplifies legal stay and facilitates local integration. The card would be linked to Vietnam’s national digital ID system, enabling easier access to services and administrative procedures. The temporary residence card would expire at least 30 days before the expiration of the passport it is tied to, ensuring document consistency.
The draft decree focuses on individuals who are invited by state authorities or recognized for exceptional expertise in their field. This group includes global executives, researchers, academic professionals, and cultural figures. The policy is intended to address gaps in Vietnam’s current immigration framework and support long-term collaboration in sectors that align with the country’s development strategy.
Who Would Be Eligible
The proposed exemption is limited to individuals who meet specific professional or recognition-based criteria. Eligibility is not open to the general public and requires either an official invitation from a qualified Vietnamese authority or documented achievement in a designated field. The goal is to attract foreign nationals who can directly contribute to Vietnam’s economic, scientific, or cultural priorities.
Eligible categories include:
- Senior professionals invited by members of the Communist Party’s Central Committee, National Assembly, or government leaders
- Executives and directors of multinational companies engaged in strategic sectors
- Scientists and researchers specializing in semiconductors, biotechnology, AI, and other national focus areas
- University professors holding doctoral degrees in STEM fields
- Medical professionals involved in clinical teaching at Vietnamese hospitals
- Artists, filmmakers, and musicians with internationally recognized awards
- Athletes with major global sporting achievements
- Influencers with at least one million followers, provided their content promotes Vietnamese culture, tourism, or innovation
These individuals must meet documentation requirements that demonstrate either a direct invitation or recognition that aligns with the decree’s criteria. The final implementation may provide further detail on what documentation is acceptable and how applications will be reviewed.
Policy Objectives
Vietnam’s draft decree is designed to address both economic and strategic development goals. The proposed visa exemption is not a general relaxation of entry requirements, but a targeted policy intended to bring in foreign professionals whose expertise aligns with national priorities. Below are the key policy drivers behind the proposal:
Strengthening Strategic Sectors
The government of Vietnam is prioritizing sectors such as semiconductors, digital technology, artificial intelligence, and scientific research. These areas are essential to Vietnam’s transition to a high-tech economy. By attracting foreign specialists in these fields, the country seeks to boost domestic capabilities, transfer technical knowledge, and accelerate sectoral growth.
Promoting Cultural and Creative Industries
Vietnam is also targeting internationally recognized professionals in arts, media, and sports. The inclusion of artists, filmmakers, musicians, and athletes in the eligible categories reflects a broader push to raise Vietnam’s global profile in cultural sectors. Their presence can help strengthen cultural exports and support soft power development.
Competing Regionally for Global Talent
Neighboring countries such as Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore already offer long-term residence programs for high-skilled foreigners. Vietnam’s current visa policies have been seen as less competitive by comparison. This draft decree represents an effort to match regional standards and attract the same caliber of international talent.
Updating the Immigration Framework
The proposed exemption also aligns with broader efforts to modernize immigration procedures. It introduces a digital identity component and integrates residence documentation, reflecting the country’s move toward a more technology-driven administrative system. This would reduce bureaucratic friction and improve transparency for eligible foreign nationals.
How This Affects Foreign Applicants
For foreign professionals who meet the eligibility criteria, the proposed exemption offers a more predictable and flexible framework for entry and residence in Vietnam. Instead of applying for short-term visas with frequent renewals, qualified individuals could benefit from a five-year exemption that allows multiple entries, each up to 90 days. This setup is especially useful for those engaged in ongoing projects, regional assignments, or academic collaborations.
In addition to easing entry procedures, the policy would grant access to temporary residence cards. These cards would allow holders to reside legally in Vietnam between visits and facilitate local processes such as leasing property, opening bank accounts, or accessing public services. The inclusion of digital identity integration is also expected to streamline registration and compliance procedures.
While the decree is not yet in effect, its approval would represent a significant shift in Vietnam’s immigration strategy. Applicants who believe they may qualify should begin reviewing their credentials and preparing documentation that aligns with the draft eligibility categories. Further implementation guidance is expected once the Vietnamese Ministry of Justice completes its review.
Conclusion
Vietnam’s draft visa exemption signals a clear shift in how the country engages with foreign talent. By focusing on professionals in high-impact fields, the policy aligns immigration tools with economic and strategic priorities. It also marks a step toward administrative modernization through residence documentation and digital ID integration.
While the proposal is still under review, it outlines a defined pathway for long-term entry by qualified individuals. If enacted, it will bring Vietnam’s visa offerings closer to regional standards. Applicants should monitor official announcements and begin preparing relevant documentation. Follow DocuEntry News for more updates!