Vietnam's investor visas: residence through a Vietnamese business

Vietnam links long-term residence for investors to genuine business activity rather than to a passive investment. Under the Law on Entry, Exit, Transit and Residence of Foreigners in Vietnam (Law No. 47/2014/QH13, amended in 2019 and 2023), a foreigner who contributes capital to a Vietnamese enterprise, or who manages one as an investor, can be sponsored by that enterprise for an investor visa. The category depends on the amount invested: DT1 for VND 100 billion or more or projects in specially incentivised sectors and areas, DT2 for VND 50 billion to under VND 100 billion or encouraged sectors, DT3 for VND 3 billion to under VND 50 billion, and DT4 for smaller investments. DT1 to DT3 holders may apply for a temporary residence card valid for up to ten, five and three years respectively; DT4 holders receive a visa of up to twelve months and must renew it.

The investment is made by setting up or acquiring a stake in a Vietnamese company, usually after obtaining an Investment Registration Certificate and an Enterprise Registration Certificate and paying in capital through a dedicated direct investment capital account. Residence cards are issued by the Immigration Department of the Ministry of Public Security, or by the provincial police, at the company's request, and must expire at least 30 days before the passport does. There is no minimum stay requirement, but status depends on the company continuing to operate, filing its reports and maintaining the investor's capital. Vietnam's 2025 Investment Law and implementing decrees adjusted licensing for some foreign investments; the immigration thresholds have not changed.

Individuals are tax resident in Vietnam if they spend 183 days or more in a calendar year or in 12 consecutive months from arrival, or if they have a habitual residence, such as a registered address or a lease of 183 days or more in a tax year. Residents are taxed on worldwide income, and employment income is taxed at progressive rates; non-residents pay a flat rate on Vietnamese-source income. Vietnam has an extensive treaty network, but there is no special regime for wealthy newcomers, so investors who spend significant time in the country should plan for worldwide taxation.

Spouses and children under 18 of DT1, DT2 and DT3 holders can obtain dependant (TT) visas and residence cards. Permanent residence is restricted to defined categories, such as those with recognised contributions to Vietnam, scientists and experts recommended by a ministry, and relatives of Vietnamese citizens after three years of continuous residence; investor status alone does not qualify. The Law on Vietnamese Nationality, amended by Law No. 79/2025/QH15 from 1 July 2025, generally requires five years' residence and sufficient Vietnamese for naturalisation, and allows retention of a foreign nationality only in specified cases, for example where the applicant has a close Vietnamese relative or has made significant contributions to Vietnam, and with presidential approval.