Vietnam Announces Visa-Free Entry to Eligible Foreign Nationals

The Vietnamese Government has announced a new limited-term visa exemption for select foreign nationals whose presence is considered valuable for the country’s socio-economic growth. The policy, issued on August 8 under Decree 221/2025/ND-CP, marks the first time Vietnam has introduced such a scheme targeting elite talent and high-profile individuals.

The program applies to guests invited by top state leaders including the State President, the Prime Minister, the General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam, the Chair of the National Assembly, vice heads of the State, the Standing Member of the Party Secretariat, Parliament and Government, the Chief Justice of the Supreme People’s Court, heads of mass organizations, the Prosecutor General of the Supreme People’s Procuracy, ministers and equivalent officials, the State Auditor General, and municipal and provincial leaders.

Eligible categories extend to experts, chief engineers, scholars, university professors, scientists, and leading professionals in the digital technology sector. Executives and investors from the world’s largest corporations, Vietnam’s honorary consuls abroad, influential cultural and sports figures, and guests of approved research institutes, universities, and large enterprises are also included. The Minister of Public Security may approve additional individuals for diplomatic or socio-economic purposes.

There are strict international benchmarks for applicants in expert, cultural,  investor, or sports fields. For example, corporate executives should lead companies listed among the world’s top 100 by market capitalization. Scientists need to have received prestigious international awards. Elite football players must rank in the global top 100 and hold formal invitations from professional clubs in Vietnam.

Eligible applicants must not be under any travel ban or restriction under Vietnam’s immigration law. They must hold a valid passport and present an invitation or nomination from an authorized government body or organization. 

Those approved will receive a special visa waiver card in either electronic or chip-based physical form. The card will be valid for up to five years, but cannot exceed the passport’s remaining validity minus 30 days.

Cardholders can enter Vietnam multiple times and stay for up to 90 days on each visit. When a card is valid for less than 90 days, the allowed stay will be the same as the card’s expiry date. Upon request, visas, extensions, or temporary residence cards may be granted.

The Immigration Department under the Ministry of Public Security will process applications and issue the cards. It will also cancel cards if the holder no longer qualifies. The program seeks to attract investors, skilled professionals, and innovators in key industries. It also targets well-known cultural and sports figures to help Vietnam strengthen its global position.