Vietnam has entered a whole new chapter in its global engagement strategy. Already loved for its bustling cities, historic charm, and coastal beauty, the country is now positioning itself as a long-term destination for thinkers, creators, and high-impact professionals.
The newly launched 5-year talent visa, part one of a three-tier golden visa structure, aims at inviting expertise rather than just wealth. Announced under the leadership of Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chinh, the programme reflects Vietnam’s ambitions to strengthen its economy, expand tourism and attract skilled individuals who can help shape the nation’s next phase of growth.
What Vietnam’s 5-Year Talent Visa Offers
Launched on 15 August 2025 under Decree No. 221/2025/NĐ-CP, the Talent Visa Exemption Card provides a five-year multiple-entry visa to eligible applicants. Holders can stay for up to 90 days without investing a single dollar.
As opposed to financial requirements, Vietnam assesses an applicant’s professional standing, achievements and contributions. The exemption card serves as a gateway to long-term stays for global experts who desire to collaborate or establish extended projects in the country.
Who Can Apply
Eligibility extends to a wide array of distinguished individuals. Highly regarded scholars, scientists, senior researchers and digital innovators are also included. Executives, investors, cultural leaders, sportspeople and public figures with significant influence may also be eligible.
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Applications are accessible online through the Ministry of Public Security, but many applicants entrust the process to law firms. If approved, grantees enjoy five years of visa-free entry into Vietnam with stays limited to 90 days.
What is the Status of Vietnam’s 10-Year Investor Visa
While the talent visa is already live, the second pillar of Vietnam’s golden visa package with a 10-year investor visa is still in government review. Analysts expect its rollout after 2026 and that permanent residency may be available after five years of continued investment.
For now, the DT visa system is the interim option, offering from one to five years of stay, depending on the investment tiers.
Why These Visas Matter to Vietnam’s Future
It is part of a broader national endeavour to accelerate economic transformation at an unprecedented pace. Based on its steady GDP growth, its young workforce and its strong rate of digital adoption, it aspires to high-income status by 2045.
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Building global expertise underpins its scientific, technological and cultural bases, in addition to bringing in long-term tourists and business executives. As neighbours around it tighten their investor-visa rules, Vietnam is walking a contrarian path to ensure that knowledge outranks capital.
Key Reminders for Applicants
It’s worth noting from a candidate’s perspective that only the talent visa component of the golden visa is active the investor visa may change before it launches.
Each entry is limited under the talent visa to 90 days and the exemption card must expire at least 30 days before the passport. It is also unclear whether cardholders may formally work within Vietnam during their stay.
Why Vietnam’s Approach Is Unique
While traditional golden visas are designed around property or financial commitments, Vietnam’s framework puts intellectual contribution at the center.
Welcoming high-skill professionals over property investors, the country charts a more sustainable and innovation-driven route to long-term engagement. The strategy is in tune with global talent aiming for mobility, meaningful work and cultural connection.
A New Invitation to Global Talent
Vietnam is signaling that experts, thinkers, and creators are wanted as long-term collaborators in its national story.
The 5-year talent visa is offering a flexible, forward-looking option for those who’d like to make contributions to one of Asia’s most dynamic economies. It’s not only a visa but is actually an invitation to be part of a country on the rise.
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Disclaimer: Information is based on current announcements and may change as Vietnam finalises its golden visa framework. Readers should confirm details before applying.
