In recent years, Vietnam’s visa policy has been continuously adjusted toward greater openness, with the aim of promoting international integration, attracting investment, and enhancing the country’s global standing. One of the most notable developments is the visa exemption policy for foreign nationals of high standing, including senior leaders, strategic experts, key investors, and distinguished scholars. This reflects Vietnam’s strong commitment to attracting global talents and fostering a favorable environment for international cooperation.
It should be emphasized that the term “high standing” does not imply any form of social discrimination or judgment of personal value. Instead, it is used as a concise description for individuals who meet specific criteria and contribute strategic or practical benefits to Vietnam’s development. In this context, “standing” is defined by factors such as investment scale, expertise in high technology, academic influence, or leadership roles in major corporations.
This article is prepared by DNP Viet Nam Law Firm to provide a comprehensive and accurate overview of Vietnam’s visa exemption policy for foreign nationals of high standing, and to support enterprises and individuals in understanding the relevant procedures.
1. Eligible beneficiaries of the visa exemption policy
Legal basis: Article 2, Decree 221/2025/ND-CP.
- Guests of senior Vietnamese leaders.
- Scholars, experts, scientists, professors at universities and research institutes; chief engineers; high-quality human resources in the digital technology industry.
- Investors, corporate leaders, and executives of major global enterprises.
- Individuals active in culture, arts, sports, and tourism with a positive influence on the public.
- Honorary consuls of Vietnam abroad.
For further details, refer to: Article 2 and Appendix 1 of the Decree.
2. Criteria and conditions for visa exemption
Legal basis: Article 3, Decree 221/2025/ND-CP.
- Possess a valid passport.
- Have an official written request or notification from a competent authority, using the prescribed form.
- Meet the criteria as a special beneficiary of preferential treatment under the Government’s designated list.
- Must not fall under cases of entry ban or temporary exit suspension pursuant to current law.
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3. Validity of the special visa exemption card
Legal basis: Clause 4, Article 4, Decree 221/2025/ND-CP.
- Eligible individuals under Article 2 may use the special visa exemption card for multiple entries into Vietnam throughout the validity of the card.
- The maximum validity of the exemption is 05 years and must be at least 30 days shorter than the remaining validity of the passport.
4. Procedures for receiving and processing applications for the special visa exemption card
Legal basis: Article 5, Decree 221/2025/ND-CP.
- The competent agency or organization submits the application (including the prescribed form and a copy of the passport) either directly or electronically to the Ministry of Public Security (Immigration Department).
- The Ministry of Public Security reviews and issues the special visa exemption card in electronic form or as a physical chip-based card; if rejected, a written explanation is provided.
- Processing time: up to 03, 05, or 07 working days depending on the specific case, as stipulated by law.
“The above content is provided by DNP Viet Nam Law Firm for reference purposes only. For detailed, accurate, and tailored legal advice that meets your specific needs, please contact us using the information provided below.”
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