Best time for immigration is when you fully understand policies and ready to act: HLG

Matz, a lawyer holding a license in France, Vietnam, Hong Kong, graduated with a prestigious degree in Criminology along with a Master's in Criminal Law and Public Law. He manages half of Harvey Law Group's global network, including Paris, and has led the expansion of new offices in key regions such as Cambodia, London, and Ivory Coast. Before settling down in Vietnam, Guillaume used to be based in Paris, London, and Bangkok.

- How do you assess the prominent migration trends in recent years?

The migration market is ever-changing, and so are immigration laws.

In recent years, immigration demand and policies have fluctuated significantly, driven by the economic needs of various countries. Many nations tailor their immigration programs to attract specific migrants, whether passive investors or entrepreneurs.

For example, from 2017 to 2019, Caribbean countries promoted passive investment programs that offered residency in exchange for substantial investments, especially following hurricane seasons. Conversely, Canada has focused on encouraging startup immigration, targeting business leaders with viable entrepreneurial ideas.

Countries also adjust residency priorities based on labor shortages. For instance, the U.S. expanded green card eligibility for commercial pilots and healthcare workers to address shortages in these sectors. There is a noticeable trend toward supporting entrepreneurship and innovation, which are vital for creating solutions and positive societal impacts.

- What should Vietnamese investors consider when choosing a country for startup immigration?

Leading destinations for startup immigration include the U.S., Canada, and the UK. Families often favor these countries for their high education standards and supportive environments that encourage personal and professional growth.

However, the key factor is personal comfort. Success in business and life depends on feeling at home in a new place. After living in Vietnam for ten years and building a business with three offices, I can attest to the importance of that connection. The local culture promotes hard work, motivation, and a drive for improvement, which fosters sustainable success.

A well-considered immigration decision can be a "lifetime gift" for future generations, offering choices for spouses, children, and grandchildren to study and work in various countries. Ultimately, it's about creating opportunities and expanding horizons.

- When is the best time to invest in start-up immigration?

The best time for immigration is when you fully understand the policies and feel prepared to act. Waiting for the "perfect moment" can lead to missed opportunities, as business ideas may lose relevance over time. If you have a genuine entrepreneurial vision and a commitment to invest in your destination country, pathways will be available.

Guillaume Matz believes the best time for immigration comes with understanding the policies and being ready to take action. Photo courtesy of HLG

No immigration program is inherently easier; suitability varies by individual circumstances. For instance, the U.S. EB-5 investor program, established in 1992, requires significant investment but can take two to seven years to process, followed by additional wait times for a green card. In contrast, the startup EB-2 program focuses on business viability and can be processed in just 45 days with premium options.

- What are the most common obstacles for Vietnamese when applying for investment immigration?

Cultural and regulatory differences pose challenges for applicants. Immigration officers often assess business plans without considering the applicant's background, which can lead to misunderstandings. For example, business plans vary significantly between countries like the U.S. and Vietnam.

Legal systems also differ; what's acceptable in one country may be illegal in another, and even minor mistakes can jeopardize immigration status.

Firms like Harvey Law Group provide essential legal support and local expertise across 24 offices in 13 countries, helping entrepreneurs navigate these complexities. We maintain strict client selection criteria, rejecting applications lacking genuine business intent to protect our clients and our reputation.

Matz noted that with 24 offices in 13 countries, they offer legal support beyond typical immigration firms. Photo courtesy of HLG

- What advice do you have for Vietnamese clients to make the best decision?

Clients need to remain alert and cautious, as many are misled by unprofessional entities posing as consulting firms. This has resulted in numerous "ghost" immigration investment applications from Vietnam - plans that appear enticing but lack genuine substance, creating negative impressions with governments and affecting legitimate cases.

Immigration officers often focus on finding reasons to deny applications. However, this situation can highlight the quality of genuine cases. Serious investors will find opportunities if they approach the process carefully and ensure each step is solid. When committed, they can successfully navigate the immigration landscape.

- How do developing countries like Vietnam benefit from start-up immigration programs?

Startup immigration creates two-way migration flows, with Vietnamese entrepreneurs emerging as key players in the global landscape. An increasing number of international investors are looking to Vietnam for collaboration, creating opportunities for mutual growth. Many Vietnamese entrepreneurs expand their businesses abroad while bringing foreign capital back to Vietnam.

From my observations, over 70% of these entrepreneurs continue to operate from Vietnam, even after obtaining residency elsewhere. Vietnam serves as their base of operations, the foundation from which their foreign branches grow.

While many entrepreneurs may live abroad seasonally - driven by business needs or their children's schooling - they ultimately return to Vietnam. This dynamic facilitates the exchange of resources and intellectual capital across borders. In our interconnected world, startup immigration programs create win-win scenarios for host countries, destination countries, and the individuals involved.