Vietnam is becoming a top choice for professionals and investors worldwide; now, with the launch of a new Golden Visa program, it is even more open. Indian nationals may apply for this visa and reside in the country for up to ten years. What more thrilling opportunity is there?

In this article, you’ll learn everything you need to know about how to apply, who qualifies, and whether this new visa lets you stay and work in Vietnam without any difficulty.

What Is a Vietnam Golden Visa?

Foreign investors, skilled employees, business professionals, and high-net-worth individuals can apply for a long-term residence visa, commonly referred to as the Vietnam Golden Visa. It’s comparable to the Golden Visa schemes in the UAE or Portugal, among other nations.

Why Is It Called a “Golden” Visa?

Golden Visas are residency schemes in which an investment or valuable contribution entitles one to long-term stay rights. In Vietnam, this means you can obtain up to ten years of residency without needing yearly visa renewals.

Why Is Vietnam Introducing This Visa Now?

Vietnam aims to attract foreign talent and investments, particularly in sectors such as technology, real estate, tourism, and infrastructure, to boost its economy.

Vietnam is desirable, inexpensive, and corporate-friendly for digital nomads, startups, and remote professionals.

Who Should Apply for the Vietnam Golden Visa?

Several types of candidates can use this visa:

1. Investors

Investing in government-approved programs, real estate, or Vietnamese firms can qualify.

2. Businesspeople

Starting a company in Vietnam or growing your current one there will require

3. Highly Competent Experts

Consider tech employees, doctors, scientists, teachers, and other professionals in sectors Vietnam wants to develop.

4. High Net-Worthy People

You can qualify even if you are not launching a business, provided you have the financial means to support Vietnam’s economy.

Indian citizens can indeed submit applications for the Vietnam Golden Visa. This is significant, as earlier, most Indian tourists required a short-stay or business visa, which is only valid for a few months.

Under this scheme, Indians may live, work, and even bring their families to live with them for years.

The Main Advantages of the Vietnam Golden Visa

1. Ten Years of Residence

Your visa does not need renewal every few months.

2. Live and Work in Vietnam

You can work for another company or start your own.

3. Include Your Relatives

Under dependent visas, your spouse and children can accompany you.

4. No Requirement for a Local Sponsor

Unlike other visas, you do not require a local corporation’s sponsorship or invitation.

5. Simpler Travel In and Out of Vietnam

You can travel in Vietnam freely and go out without the need for re-entry permits.

What Are the Eligibility Requirements?

Although the category you choose may affect them slightly, these are some basic requirements:

For Investors:

• The expected minimum investment should be about $100,000 or more
• Investment in government-approved industries or enterprises

Entrepreneurship Here:

• Evidence of Vietnamese Business Registration
• Business strategy demonstrating financial contribution

For Experienced Professionals:

• A university degree or expert certification
• A few years of professional knowledge in your industry
• Vietnamese employer’s job offer (not required but helpful)

For Those With Significant Wealth:

• Asset proof or bank statements indicating great financial well-being
• Attitude toward investing or financially donating

How Should You Register for the Vietnam Golden Visa?

Both in-person and online submission options suggest a straightforward application process. This is a broad summary:

Step 1: Select Your Eligibility Route

Determine if you are applying as a skilled worker, investor, entrepreneur, or high-net-worth individual.

Step 2: Get Needed Paperwork

These could include:

• A passport with at least one year of validity
• Police verification certificate
• Medical insurance
• Documentation of funds or investments
• Business plan or employment letter, if any

Step 3: Submit Your Application

Submit via Vietnam’s immigration portal or go to the Vietnamese embassy in your nation.

Step 4: Await Permission

Processing time is estimated to range from four to eight weeks.

Step 5: Gather Your Visa and Leave

Upon approval, you will be given a long-term residency visa.

What About Taxes? Will I Be Taxed in Vietnam?

Yes, you will be regarded as a tax resident if you reside in Vietnam for more than 183 days in a given year.

Vietnam’s Tax System for Residents:

• Income tax covers income from around the world.
• If you manage a firm, corporate and business taxes apply.
• Vietnam, meanwhile, has tax treaties with several nations to prevent double taxation.

It is best to ask a local tax specialist.

How can I get permanent residency or citizenship in Vietnam?

This golden visa does not grant you permanent residency or citizenship in Vietnam immediately. To get eligible for a permanent residency visa or citizenship, you need to live in Vietnam for at least five years.

Citizenship can be viewed in unique cases; however, apart from extraordinary events, Vietnam generally prohibits dual nationality.

What Are the Drawbacks?

While the Golden Visa is an excellent opportunity, it’s also vital to be aware of the restrictions:

• There is no automatic path to citizenship
• Unless your visa type includes it, there is no promised work permit
• Risk of investment: Legitimate, approved projects need your investment
• No political participation or voting rights

Golden Visa Cost

Precise expenses will vary depending on your category, investment, and the type of legal assistance required. Here’s an approximation, however:

• Application Fees: $500–$1,000
• Optional legal services: $1,000–$3,000
• Investment sum: Minimum $100,000 (approximately)

Living in Vietnam: How Is It?

Vietnam offers a distinctive blend of affordability, natural beauty, modern cities, and a rich cultural heritage.

Principal Cities for Expats:

• Ho Chi Minh City – contemporary, urban, business-friendly
• Hanoi – cultural and diplomatic core
• Da Nang – coastal, booming tech scene
• Nha Trang and Hoi An – tourist-friendly and quiet

Cost of Living:

• Rent: $300–$800 a month, depending on the city
• Food: Local cuisine runs between $2 and $5
• Transport: Scooters are great; public transportation is inexpensive

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Could I bring my kids and my husband with me?

Yes. You can bring your kids and husband with you by applying for dependent visas for your children under 18 and your partner.

Q2: How long can I stay on a Golden Visa?

Depending on your visa, you may stay for ten years. To renew, you could have to demonstrate ongoing compliance.

Q3: With this visa, can I be employed in Vietnam?

Yes, particularly if you are applying as a trained expert or investor. However, you might have to register your business or get a work visa.

Q4: Is the application subject to an age restriction?

There is no strict age restriction, but you must be legally an adult (typically 18 years or older) and demonstrate financial capacity or relevant skill credentials.

Q5: Can I buy property in Vietnam as a Golden Visa holder?

Yes, foreigners can possess property in Vietnam, but it is subject to certain limitations, usually a 50-year leasehold. Directly owning land is impossible.

Q6: Is an understanding of Vietnamese necessary?

This is not for visa approval; knowing basic Vietnamese will simplify your life here.

Q7: If my investment flops, what then happens?

Your visa may be cancelled or not renewed if your investment does not satisfy the criteria or fails. Therefore, it is essential to select authorised and secure projects.

Real-World Illustration

Delhi’s Rahul invested in a technology company in Ho Chi Minh City and received a five-year visa under the investor class. Six months later, his daughter and wife joined him. They are exploring growth possibilities and living well in the present.

Final Thoughts: Should You Apply?

A great new option for Indians seeking permanent foreign residence is the Vietnam Golden Visa. Vietnam currently offers a stable foundation for living, working, and thriving, whether you are an investor, trained professional, or entrepreneur.

Plan nonetheless with care. Consider the long-term vision, whether it’s for lifestyle, business expansion, or a worldwide experience and ensure your papers are in order.

For more information or updates, please visit the official website of the Vietnamese Immigration Department or consult with a licensed visa counsellor.