Vietnam Investor Visa Guide: Pathways for Long-Term Residency

As Vietnam continues to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) across manufacturing, technology, renewable energy, and services, an increasing number of foreign entrepreneurs and investors are exploring options for long-term residence in the country.

Find Business Support

Navigate labor compliance with confidence

Vietnam’s investor visa framework provides a pathway for eligible foreign investors to reside in the country while managing business operations and investments. Depending on the size and nature of the investment, investors may qualify for long-term visas and temporary residence cards (TRCs) valid for up to 10 years.

Recent immigration reforms and amendments to investment law have further streamlined market entry procedures, making Vietnam more accessible to foreign investors.

See also: Vietnam Visa Costs in 2026

Understanding Vietnam’s investor visa system

Vietnam grants investor visas under the “DT” (Investor) category to foreign individuals who establish or contribute capital to businesses operating in the country.

Unlike tourist or business visas, investor visas are tied directly to an individual’s investment activities and may provide access to long-term residency through the issuance of a TRC. The duration of stay depends primarily on the investor’s capital contribution and whether the project falls within sectors eligible for investment incentives.

Investor visa categories

According to the 2023 Law on Entry, Exit, Transit, and Residence of Foreigners in Vietnam, the country currently classifies investor visas into four categories:

Investors under the DT1, DT2, and DT3 categories may apply for a TRC, while DT4 holders generally must renew their visa periodically and are not eligible for long-term residency cards.

Temporary residence cards: The main route to long-term stay

For most foreign investors, obtaining a TRC is the most practical way to establish long-term residence in Vietnam.

A TRC serves as a long-term residency document that allows holders to:

• Reside in Vietnam without repeatedly renewing visas;
• Enter and exit Vietnam multiple times without applying for a new visa;
• Facilitate administrative procedures such as opening bank accounts, signing lease agreements, and conducting business activities; and
• Reduce immigration-related administrative burdens for investors and their families.

The validity of the TRC corresponds to the investor category:

• DT1: Up to 10 years;
• DT2: Up to 5 years;
• DT3: Up to 3 years.

Key eligibility requirements

To qualify for an investor TRC, applicants generally must provide:

• A valid passport;
• A valid investor visa;
• Evidence of capital contribution or ownership in a Vietnamese enterprise;
• Enterprise registration documents; and
• Temporary residence registration in Vietnam.

Establishing an investment presence in Vietnam

Foreign investors typically obtain an investor visa after establishing or investing in a Vietnamese company.

Recent reforms under the 2025 Investment Law and Decree No. 96/2026/ND-CP have simplified the investment process. Foreign investors may now choose between the traditional route of obtaining an Investment Registration Certificate (IRC) before incorporation or a more flexible “company-first” approach in certain circumstances. These changes are intended to reduce administrative burdens and accelerate market entry.

Depending on the business sector, foreign ownership limitations and market access conditions may still apply. Investors should therefore assess licensing requirements before proceeding with company formation.

Can investor visa holders bring family members to Vietnam?

Spouses and dependent children of foreign investors may apply for dependent visas linked to the principal investor’s immigration status. This allows families to reside together in Vietnam during the investment period, subject to applicable immigration requirements.

For many investors, this family reunification option is a significant advantage compared to short-term business visa arrangements.

Is permanent residency available?

Find Business Support

Flexible, fully compliant employment solutions across Asia.

Vietnam does not currently operate a formal “golden visa” or citizenship-by-investment program.

Obtaining permanent residence remains highly selective and is generally reserved for individuals who meet specific criteria under Vietnam’s immigration laws. While investor visas and TRCs provide long-term residency, they do not automatically lead to permanent residence or citizenship. Investors seeking a permanent presence in Vietnam should consider investor residency as a long-term stay solution rather than a guaranteed pathway to immigration.

Recent immigration developments in 2026

Vietnam continues to refine its immigration framework as part of broader efforts to attract foreign investment and high-skilled talent.

Beginning July 1, 2026, Vietnam will introduce two new visa categories (UD1 and UD2) aimed at highly qualified professionals, innovation specialists, and their dependent family members. These categories are separate from the existing investor visa regime but signal Vietnam’s broader strategy to attract international talent and strengthen its competitiveness as an investment destination.

The introduction of these long-term visa categories complements ongoing reforms under the 2025 Investment Law, which seek to streamline investment procedures and improve the overall business environment for foreign investors.

See also: A Complete Guide to Vietnam’s E-Visa

Outlook

Vietnam’s investor visa framework remains one of the primary mechanisms for foreign entrepreneurs and investors seeking a long-term presence in the country. With TRC validity periods of up to 10 years, streamlined investment procedures, and growing government efforts to attract foreign capital, the system offers a practical residency solution for investors operating in Vietnam.

As the country continues to modernize its investment and immigration regulations, foreign investors may benefit from greater administrative flexibility and improved pathways to establish a stable business presence in one of Asia’s fastest-growing economies.

Setting up a business in Vietnam requires navigating company registration, local approvals, and work permit processes. We help FDI companies by preparing and submitting documentation, coordinating with authorities, and ensuring compliance, so they can start operations smoothly and focus on growth.

Tam Nguyen

Senior Manager

Talk to an expert at vietnam@dezshira.com

Or request a consultation at +84 28 3930 2828

• Previous Article PCI and BPI 2025: Measuring Vietnam’s Business Environment and Private Sector Growth
• Next Article