Vietnam exempts visas for billionaires, scholars, tech experts

The government issued Decree 221 on Aug. 8, regulating temporary visa exemptions for foreigners considered vital to socio-economic development.

The decree specifies six categories of individuals exempt from visas. The first group includes guests of high-ranking officials such as the Party General Secretary, President, Prime Minister, Chief Justice of the Supreme People’s Court, ministers, provincial Party Secretaries, and chairpersons of People’s Councils and Committees at the provincial and city levels.

Also exempted are scholars, experts, scientists, university professors, research institute members, chief engineers, and elite digital technology personnel. To qualify, scientists and engineers must have received prestigious international awards or recognition. Investors and leaders of large corporations are exempt if their companies appear on the annual list of the top 100 global enterprises by market capitalization, as announced by reputable international organizations.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh (R) and Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang tour Hanoi's Old Quarter during the latter's visit to Vietnam in December 2024. Photo by VnExpress/Giang Huy

Individuals in culture, arts, sports, and tourism who positively influence the public are also eligible. Football players ranked among the world's top 100 and invited to compete or participate in exchange programs by domestic professional football clubs will receive visa exemptions.

Other exempt groups include honorary Vietnamese consuls abroad and guests from research institutes, universities, and large enterprises, with the specific institutions approved by the government.

Additional visa exemptions for foreign affairs or socio-economic purposes will be determined by the Minister of Public Security. Visa exemption cards will be issued either electronically or as hard cards with chips, both carrying equal legal validity. The exemption period will not exceed five years and must be at least 30 days shorter than the passport's remaining validity.

The exemption policy cames after Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh directed ministries and agencies in April 2025 to study visa exemption policies for influential international visitors.