Vietnam Grants Special Visa Exemptions for Global Talent

The decree identifies six categories eligible for exemption. These include official guests of senior Vietnamese leaders; leading scholars, scientists, and chief engineers with recognized international awards; top-tier digital industry professionals; investors and executives from the world’s 100 largest corporations; influential cultural figures, artists, athletes, and especially elite footballers ranked among the world’s top 100 who are invited to play or exchange in Vietnam. In addition, honorary consuls, invited experts from major universities and research institutes, as well as other individuals designated by the Ministry of Public Security for diplomatic or development purposes, are also covered.

The visa exemption is granted through a special card, available in both electronic and chip-embedded physical formats, valid for multiple entries over a maximum of five years, but not exceeding the passport’s remaining validity. Each entry allows a 90-day temporary stay, extendable under Vietnam’s immigration law.

Authorities retain the right to revoke exemptions if eligibility criteria are no longer met. The Ministry of Public Security has also proposed incorporating this exemption mechanism into broader legislative amendments on security and immigration.

This policy aims to attract global talent, leading investors, and renowned figures in science, culture, and sports, reinforcing Vietnam’s ambition to build a dynamic economy with strong global competitiveness.