Vietnam’s New Immigration Law Comes into Force on July 1, 2026: What’s Changing?

From July 1, 2026, Vietnam will implement a new set of immigration measures. Behind this reform lies a clear objective: to attract more international talent, investors, and highly qualified experts while continuing to

modernize its administrative procedures.

This development marks a new stage in the country's strategy. Long perceived primarily as a tourist or industrial destination, Vietnam is now openly pursuing its ambition to become a major regional hub for technology, innovation, and international finance.

Two New Visas to Attract International Talent

The main feature of this reform is the creation of two new visa categories: UĐ1 and UĐ2.

The UĐ1 Visa: For Experts and Highly Qualified Professionals

The UĐ1 visa is intended for strategic investors, experts, executives, managers, and highly skilled workers employed by organizations operating within the Vietnam International Financial Centre in Ho Chi Minh City or Da Nang.

The objective is to facilitate the relocation and establishment of high-value professionals in sectors considered priorities for the country's economic development. These include digital technologies, innovation, international finance, and other strategic sectors defined by the Vietnamese authorities.

The visa may be granted for a period of up to five years. In certain specific cases, particularly for individuals working directly within the International Finance Corporation (IFC) group, its validity may be extended to as much as ten years.

The UĐ2 Visa: For Family Members of UĐ1 Visa Holders

To encourage the long-term settlement of foreign talent, the Vietnamese government is also introducing the UĐ2 visa.

This visa is intended for the spouse of a UĐ1 visa holder and their dependent minor children.

Its validity period will be identical to that of the UĐ1 visa to which it is linked.

A Simplified and Accelerated Process

Unlike traditional visa applications, UĐ1 and UĐ2 visas will not go through the standard Vietnamese immigration channels.

Applications must be submitted through the governmental authorities of the International Financial Centre, with mandatory sponsorship by the IFC or the relevant organization.

Processing times are expected to be particularly fast, with authorities announcing a maximum turnaround of approximately three working days after the application is submitted.

This procedure reflects Vietnam's determination to remain competitive with other regional hubs such as Singapore and Hong Kong when it comes to attracting highly qualified international professionals.

A Clear Strategy to Attract Talent

Beyond the introduction of new visas, this reform reflects a broader shift in Vietnam's immigration policy.

The government aims to create a stable and structured framework that enables international companies to recruit and retain foreign talent over the long term.

Preferential measures are planned for categories of individuals considered strategically important to the country's economic development, including investors, international experts, business leaders, highly qualified professionals, and specialists in new technologies and innovation.

The message is clear: Vietnam wants to be recognized not only as an attractive destination for travelers, but also as a country where it is possible to build an international career.

Continued Digitalization of Entry Procedures

Administrative modernization is also continuing.

Vietnamese authorities are further expanding the digitalization of immigration formalities in order to streamline inspections and reduce waiting times at border checkpoints.

Some international entry points already require an online pre-arrival declaration accompanied by a QR code, allowing travelers to pass through controls more quickly.

In addition, the e-visa system remains in place and continues to be a central component of Vietnam's immigration policy. This system allows eligible travelers to complete all required procedures remotely, with processes that are generally simpler and faster than before.

A Possible Expansion of Visa Exemptions

Another expected development is the expansion of the list of countries eligible for short-stay visa exemptions.

Although the final list has not yet been published, this measure is part of a broader policy of openness aimed at enhancing Vietnam's attractiveness to international tourists, investors, and business travelers.

This relaxation of entry requirements could further support the country's economic and tourism development in the years ahead.

A Health Declaration Now Mandatory

The reform also introduces a new health-related requirement.

Travelers entering, leaving, or transiting through Vietnam will be required to complete a prior health declaration.

This declaration must be submitted within the seven days preceding entry into, departure from, or transit through Vietnamese territory.

The Ministry of Health will progressively clarify the following: the diseases concerned, the categories of travelers affected, and the duration of the measures depending on developments in the international health situation.

At this stage, the authorities have not yet announced the practical details of this declaration. The platform to be used, as well as the detailed procedure, are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.

Key Takeaways On The New Immigration Law

The immigration reform taking effect on July 1, 2026, confirms Vietnam's transition toward a more open and attractive model for international talent.

With the introduction of the new UĐ1 and UĐ2 visas, the country is establishing a genuine pathway for the relocation and settlement of experts, investors, and highly qualified professionals, while also facilitating the arrival of their families.

At the same time, the continued digitalization of procedures, the maintenance of the e-visa system, and the anticipated expansion of visa exemptions demonstrate a clear commitment to simplifying access to the country.

For international companies and professionals considering a move to Southeast Asia, these new measures could further strengthen Vietnam's position among the region's most attractive destinations in the years ahead.