New policies benefiting overseas Vietnamese from July 1 2025

More flexible nationality rules
The amended Law on Vietnamese Nationality eases restrictions on retaining foreign nationality when acquiring or resuming Vietnamese citizenship. Individuals with Vietnamese parents or grandparents, or those who have made significant contributions to the nation, may be allowed to keep their foreign nationality if this complies with the foreign country’s law and does not harm Vietnam’s security or national interests. This change removes long-standing legal obstacles faced by many overseas Vietnamese.

Opportunities in the public sector
The 2025 Law on Cadres and Civil Servants introduces a new mechanism allowing government bodies to sign labor or service contracts with experts, scholars, business leaders, and legal professionals, instead of requiring civil service exams. Decree 173/2025 provides detailed guidance and extends this mechanism to Vietnam’s diplomatic and overseas representative offices. This opens new pathways for overseas intellectuals to work with the state apparatus under contract-based arrangements.

Easier business and investment environment
The amended 2025 Law on Enterprises simplifies administrative procedures and enables fully online company registration. This allows overseas Vietnamese to establish businesses remotely without being physically present in Vietnam. The law also enhances protections for minority shareholders, clarifies regulations on capital transfer and dispute resolution, and makes it easier to invest or withdraw capital while safeguarding legal rights.

Greater participation in policymaking
The amended 2025 Law on Promulgation of Legal Documents strengthens requirements for transparency and public consultation. Draft regulations must be published in a timely manner, giving overseas Vietnamese associations and legal experts opportunities to provide feedback and policy recommendations. This ensures their voices are considered in shaping policies affecting citizenship, land, residence, investment, and repatriation.

Stronger protection and support abroad
The 2024 Law on Prevention and Combat of Human Trafficking, effective from July 1, 2025, expands protection for Vietnamese citizens overseas. Diplomatic missions are required to verify information, rescue victims, and provide support when citizens are exploited or deceived into illegal labor or fraudulent marriages. Importantly, support is extended not only to confirmed victims but also to those under investigation, accompanying children, and relatives involved in rescue efforts. Assistance includes medical care, legal advice, vocational training, financial aid, health insurance, and temporary housing.

Overall, these legal reforms create a more inclusive and secure framework, encouraging overseas Vietnamese to maintain strong ties and contribute to Vietnam’s development.