Viet Nam's government has issued Decree No. 221/2025/NĐ-CP introducing the nation's first limited-term visa waiver scheme specifically targeting high-profile foreign nationals whose presence benefits the country's economic and social development, including scholars, investors from world's largest corporations, and cultural figures with positive public influence.
Eligible individuals must meet strict international benchmarks outlined in Annex 1, such as corporate leaders representing companies ranked among the world's top 100 by market capitalization, scientists holding prestigious international awards, and elite footballers in the global top 100 as recognized by reputable organizations with invitations from Vietnamese professional clubs.
The Ministry of Public Security through the Immigration Department will issue special visa waiver cards—either electronic or chip-based physical versions with equal legal validity—allowing multiple entries over a maximum period of five years, with each entry permitting a 90-day temporary stay.
Categories include guests invited by top national leaders such as the General Secretary of the Communist Party, State President, Prime Minister, ministers, provincial leaders, as well as experts in digital technology, Viet Nam's honorary consuls abroad, and individuals approved by designated research institutes and universities.
This groundbreaking policy aims to attract elite talent, high-quality human resources, startup innovators, and top experts in priority sectors including semiconductors and core digital technology, fostering a dynamic, globally competitive economy while strengthening Vietnam's position as a destination for international expertise and investment.
