Immigration News – August 2025: Fast-Track Reforms and Digital Shift for Foreign Residents

RelocationVietnam
Aug 13
3 min read

Since mid-July, Vietnam has been accelerating its immigration and talent-attraction reforms even further. New long-term visa proposals, extended electronic stays, relaxed naturalization criteria, and the adoption of cutting-edge digital tools: authorities are multiplying initiatives to attract skilled profiles and streamline procedures for foreign residents. In this article, we review the measures that have come into effect in recent weeks, before zooming in on one of the most tangible changes for expatriates: the nationwide rollout of the electronic identification account (e-ID).

1. Towards a 5-year visa exemption for certain categories of talent

Since July 21, 2025, the Ministry of Public Security has proposed a draft decree to issue a visa exemption card valid for up to 5 years. It would target profiles deemed strategic: scientists, senior executives, investors, recognized artists or athletes, etc. Each stay would be extended to 90 days, offering greater stability to the targeted talents.

2. Expansion of visa policy and extension of electronic stays

On August 15, 2025, with the implementation of Decree 221/NĐ-CP, Vietnam extended the validity of the e-visa to 90 days for all nationalities, thus promoting longer tourist or business stays.

3. Simplification of naturalization criteria

On July 1, 2025, Decree 191/2025/NĐ-CP came into force, easing the requirements for obtaining Vietnamese nationality. Certain conditions—such as language proficiency, minimum residence period, or proof of financial self-sufficiency—can now be waived in specific cases, particularly when the applicant has made exceptional contributions to the country.

4. Opening up to overseas Vietnamese and skilled talents

In early July, Vietnamese authorities unveiled a draft reform aimed at facilitating the naturalization of overseas Vietnamese and certain highly qualified profiles. This scheme, still under review, provides for simplified procedures and the possibility of submitting applications directly at Vietnamese embassies and consulates. If adopted, it would complement the relaxation already in effect since July 1 for all foreigners.

5. Government blockchain for data protection

On July 29, 2025, Vietnam officially launched NDAChain, a national blockchain platform designed to enhance data protection, digital identity, and regulatory compliance. NDAChain serves as a secure foundation for administrative services and certain private transactions. In the long run, this infrastructure is expected to facilitate the integration of electronic identification accounts (e-ID) and provide foreign residents with greater confidentiality and reliability in their dealings in Vietnam.

6. Twelve new visa-exempt countries for tourism

From August 15, 2025, as part of a tourism incentive program, Vietnam will allow nationals of twelve additional countries to enter visa-free and stay for up to 45 days: Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Hungary, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Switzerland. This measure will remain in effect until August 14, 2028, regardless of passport type, provided that legal entry conditions are met.

7. Focus on the Level 2 e-ID campaign for foreign residents

Since July 1, Vietnam has been running a nationwide campaign to register foreign holders of permanent or temporary residence cards on the VNeID application (Level 2). This digital identity, free during the campaign period ending August 19, 2025, is becoming essential for accessing numerous services: banking operations, property rentals, administrative procedures, secure storage of official documents. Available in Vietnamese and English, VNeID centralizes personal information and facilitates interaction with public services. Authorities aim to strengthen administrative transparency, improve migration data management, and reduce physical paperwork.

Registration is done in person at the immigration office, with biometric data collection and completion of the TK01 form under Decree 69/2024/NĐ-CP. Processing time ranges from 3 to 7 working days, depending on whether prior data is already on file.