Vietnam is taking a major step toward boosting its global appeal by considering a "golden visa" programme, which would allow foreigners to stay for five to ten years. Proposed by the Tourism Advisory Board (TAB) to Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính, this initiative aims to position Vietnam as a top destination for long-term travelers, retirees, and investors in Southeast Asia.
If approved, Vietnam would join regional competitors like Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia, which already offer similar long-term visa schemes. With tourism nearly fully recovered (reaching 98% of pre-pandemic levels in 2024) and 17.5 million foreign visitors last year, Vietnam is looking to sustain growth by attracting high-spending tourists, digital nomads, and wealthy investors.
Southeast Asia has become a hotspot for long-term visas, with countries using them to boost tourism and foreign investment. Thailand’s Elite Visa, Malaysia’s My Second Home (MM2H), and Indonesia’s digital nomad visa have successfully attracted affluent expats. Vietnam, with its stunning landscapes, low cost of living, and rapid development, has strong potential—but currently lacks a dedicated long-term visa option.
A golden visa could offer key benefits, including:
✅ Extended stays (5-10 years) without frequent renewals
✅ Easier residency for retirees, investors, and professionals
✅ Increased real estate and business investments
✅ Higher tourism revenue from long-stay visitors
Tourism contributed over 6% of Vietnam’s GDP before the pandemic. A golden visa could further accelerate growth by encouraging longer stays and higher spending. Countries like Portugal and Spain have seen massive economic benefits from similar programmes, with foreign investors pouring billions into real estate.
In Vietnam, key areas that could benefit include:
🏙 Luxury apartments in Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City
🏖 Beachfront properties in Nha Trang and Phú Quốc
💼 Business investments in tech, manufacturing, and hospitality
Additionally, retirees from Europe, North America, and Northeast Asia may find Vietnam attractive due to its affordable living costs, quality healthcare, and tropical climate.
While promising, Vietnam must address several hurdles:
⚠ Strict Eligibility – Minimum investment requirements may be needed (e.g., property or business capital).
⚠ Infrastructure Gaps – Expanding healthcare, international schools, and transport is crucial.
⚠ Regional Competition – Must offer better incentives than Thailand and Malaysia.
⚠ Regulatory Clarity – Transparent policies will build trust among applicants.
Country | Visa Programme | Key Advantage | Weakness |
Thailand | Elite Visa (5-20 yrs) | Well-established, flexible options | High fees ($15K+) |
Malaysia | MM2H (10-yr renewable) | Long validity, English-friendly | Stricter financial rules |
Vietnam | Proposed Golden Visa | Lower cost of living, fast growth | New, untested |
Vietnam’s lower living costs and dynamic economy could give it an edge, but it must differentiate itself from more established programmes.
2025 – Potential pilot launch, targeting wealthy investors and retirees.
Global Marketing – Promoting Vietnam’s safety, culture, and business opportunities.
Public-Private Partnerships – Collaboration with real estate developers and relocation agencies.
Vietnam’s golden visa could reshape its tourism and investment landscape, attracting long-term expats and reducing reliance on short-term visitors. If well-structured, it may position Vietnam as a leading destination in Southeast Asia.
The big question: Will 2025 be the year Vietnam rolls out its golden visa? If successful, this programme could mark a new era of economic growth for the country.
What’s Next?
Government approval – Awaiting official confirmation.
Policy details – Will Vietnam offer better terms than competitors?
Market response – How will expats and investors react?
For now, all eyes are on Vietnam’s next move—a decision that could shape its economic future for decades.
Would you consider Vietnam for long-term stay or investment if this visa is introduced? Let us know your thoughts! 🌏✈️🏡
Golden Visa Comparisons:
For European investment options, see how Portugal's program compares: Portugal Golden Visa: Easiest EU Residency Program
Explore Hungary's new investment visa launching in 2025:Hungary Golden Visa 2025: Minimum Investment & Requirements
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