Exploring Vietnam Golden Visa Investment Options: A Comprehensive Guide

Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys, and official sources like vietnam-visa.com, travel.state.gov, evisa.gov.vn, vinpearl.com, and vietnam.travel. Information based on the latest data; verify before travel. Reflects Vietnam’s updated travel regulations.

Travelers and investors, please note: Vietnam's Golden Visa (residency by investment) program, often referred to through the DT investor visa categories, allows foreign investors to obtain long-term residency through business or real estate investments. Minimum investment starts at VND 3 billion (~USD 120,000) for the DT3 visa, with higher tiers offering longer stays and potential pathways to permanent residence. This guide details investment options, application processes, and travel tips for a seamless journey.

A Practical, Cultural, and Sustainable Travel Essential

Vietnam, a dynamic Southeast Asian destination, is renowned for its cultural landmarks like Hoi An’s ancient town, Ha Long Bay’s limestone karsts, and bustling cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City vinpearl.com. Understanding Vietnam’s Golden Visa investment options enables investors from all countries to secure residency while exploring these treasures, whether joining guided Vietnam Tours or traveling independently. The program offers residency through investments in real estate, business, or prioritized sectors, with minimum thresholds starting at USD 120,000 vietnam-visa.com. This guide provides practical investment insights, cultural tips, and eco-friendly Vietnam Travel options for international investors.

Following Vietnam’s updated investment regulations, the country is accessible via 13 international airports (e.g., Noi Bai in Hanoi, Tan Son Nhat in Ho Chi Minh City), 16 land borders, and 13 seaports. This guide blends Golden Visa investment options, application processes, and sustainable Vietnam Travel ideas for a worry-free adventure.

Administrative Note

International investors can apply for Vietnam’s Golden Visa (DT visas) with investments starting at VND 3 billion (USD 120,000) for DT3, up to VND 100 billion for DT1. Residency durations range from 1–10 years, with pathways to permanent residence after 5 years for certain tiers. Application fees vary ($25–$100 or 625,000–2,500,000 VND), plus investment costs. Cultural site entries like Hoi An cost $5–$7 (125,000–175,000 VND); guided tours range from $15–$80 (375,000–2,000,000 VND). Temporary residence registration with local police is required within 24 hours, typically handled by hotels or investment sponsors. Verify investment requirements via vietnam-visa.com or travel.state.gov.

Golden Visa Options for International Investors

• DT1 Investor Visa (High-Level Investment):

  • Purpose: Residency for major investors in prioritized sectors or large-scale projects.

  • Eligibility: Investors from all countries with investments of at least VND 100 billion (~USD 4 million) or in government-prioritized sectors (e.g., technology, tourism) vietnam-visa.com.

  • Duration: Up to 10 years, with renewal options and pathway to permanent residence after 5 years vietnam-visa.com.

  • Cost: Application fees $50–$100 (1,250,000–2,500,000 VND); investment minimum VND 100 billion vietnam-visa.com.

  • Requirements: Proof of investment (e.g., business license, bank statements); passport valid for at least 6 months with two blank pages; application through Vietnamese Immigration Department or embassy travel.state.gov.

  • Extension: Extendable with continued investment; fees apply ($50 or 1,250,000 VND) vietnam-visa.com.

• DT2 Investor Visa (Significant Investment):

  • Purpose: Residency for substantial investors in business or real estate.

  • Eligibility: Investors with investments of at least VND 50 billion (~USD 2 million) vietnam-visa.com.

  • Duration: Up to 5 years, with renewal and potential permanent residence pathway vietnam-visa.com.

  • Cost: Application fees $40–$80 (1,000,000–2,000,000 VND); investment minimum VND 50 billion vietnam-visa.com.

  • Requirements: Investment documentation (e.g., property deeds, business registration); apply through Immigration Department travel.state.gov.

  • Extension: Extendable with proof of ongoing investment; fees apply ($40 or 1,000,000 VND) vietnam-visa.com.

• DT3 Investor Visa (Standard Investment):

  • Purpose: Residency for investors in real estate, startups, or enterprises.

  • Eligibility: Investors with investments of at least VND 3 billion (~USD 120,000) in real estate or business vietnam-visa.com.

  • Duration: Up to 3 years, with renewal options vietnam-visa.com.

  • Cost: Application fees $25–$50 (625,000–1,250,000 VND); investment minimum VND 3 billion vietnam-visa.com.

  • Requirements: Proof of investment (e.g., property purchase, business setup); application through Vietnamese Immigration Department or embassy travel.state.gov.

  • Extension: Extendable with continued investment; fees apply ($25 or 625,000 VND) vietnam-visa.com.

• DT4 Investor Visa (Small Investment):

  • Purpose: Residency for smaller investors or contributors.

  • Eligibility: Investors with investments of at least VND 3 billion (~USD 120,000) in certain cases, or lower thresholds for specific sectors vietnam-visa.com.

  • Duration: Up to 1 year, with renewal vietnam-visa.com.

  • Cost: Application fees $25 (625,000 VND); investment minimum VND 3 billion vietnam-visa.com.

  • Requirements: Investment proof; apply through Immigration Department travel.state.gov.

  • Extension: Extendable with proof of investment; fees apply ($25 or 625,000 VND) vietnam-visa.com.

• Key Restrictions:

  • Investors must not fall under suspension categories (e.g., security risks) as per Vietnam’s immigration laws vietnam-visa.com.

  • Temporary residence registration is mandatory within 24 hours, typically handled by investment sponsors or hotels travel.state.gov.

  • Overstay penalties: 500,000 VND/day ($20/day); potential exit bans or deportation travel.state.gov.

• Important Note: Vietnam’s Golden Visa program focuses on residency by investment through the DT categories; consult a Vietnamese embassy or immigration office for personalized advice vietnam-visa.com.

Key Requirements for International Investors

• Passport: Valid for at least 6 months from entry date with two blank pages travel.state.gov.

• Application Process: Submit investment proof, passport, and fees to the Vietnamese Immigration Department or embassy; processing time 1–3 months vietnam-visa.com.

• Residence Registration: Mandatory within 24 hours, handled by sponsors; carry proof of registration travel.state.gov.

Respecting Vietnam’s Cultural Heritage

Cultural etiquette ensures a smooth experience during Vietnam Tours, complementing Golden Visa preparation for international investors. Here’s your guide, based on current norms:

• Greetings: Offer a “xin chào” (hello) with a slight nod; use both hands for transactions to show respect, especially at temples or markets like Hanoi’s Old Quarter culturetrip.com.

• Dress: Wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees for temple visits (e.g., Temple of Literature in Hanoi); a lightweight scarf ($1 or 25,000 VND) aligns with local norms vinpearl.com.

• Behaviour: Maintain a calm demeanor at cultural sites; ask permission before photographing locals or rituals; carry investment documents securely to verify status. Avoid public criticism of the Vietnamese government (penalties apply). A guest shared: “Respecting Vietnamese customs made our Golden Visa investment trip seamless.” culturetrip.com

• Customs: Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated ($0.20–$1 or 5,000–25,000 VND); avoid littering at cultural sites like Ha Long Bay or Hoi An’s ancient town culturetrip.com.

• Tip: Say “cảm ơn” (thank you) to locals or guides; use eco-friendly practices like reusable water bottles ($2 or 50,000 VND) to support sustainable Vietnam Travel; keep passport handy for checks. Tony Bùi notes: “In 20 years guiding, I’ve seen investors thrive in Vietnam’s vibrant culture.”

General Tips:

• Language: Carry a phrase card ($1 or 25,000 VND) for Vietnamese basics like “cảm ơn”; English is widely spoken in tourist areas like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, but translation apps are useful culturetrip.com.

• Respect: Follow temple rules (avoid touching sacred items); respect local vendors with fair purchases in markets.

• Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) for cities like Hanoi or Hoi An; carry a printed Golden Visa or passport photocopy for checks travel.state.gov.

• Eco-Tip: Opt for bicycles ($1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND/day) or motorbike taxis ($0.50–$2 or 12,500–50,000 VND) to reduce emissions, aligning with Vietnam’s green tourism goals vietnam.travel.

Below is a curated list of tour options to enhance your Golden Visa-prepared journey, based on the latest data from vietnam-visa.com, evisa.gov.vn, travel.state.gov, vinpearl.com, and vietnam.travel. Confirm schedules and prices before booking.

1. Self-Guided Golden Visa-Prepared Exploration

• Details: Explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Hoi An’s ancient town, or Ha Long Bay independently after obtaining your Golden Visa; suitable for investors with valid residency; low to moderate difficulty vietnam.travel.

• Visa Tips: Use the DT visa for long-term residency; carry a printed Golden Visa or passport photocopy; register temporary residence at hotels or investment properties travel.state.gov.

• Schedule: Daily; Hoi An ancient town open 8:00 AM–5:00 PM ($5–$7 or 125,000–175,000 VND); Temple of Literature open 8:00 AM–5:00 PM ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND); Ha Long Bay accessible anytime.

• Cost: Entry: free (markets); Hoi An: $5–$7 (125,000–175,000 VND); Temple of Literature: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND); transport (bicycle: $1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND/day; motorbike taxi: $0.50–$2 or 12,500–50,000 VND); local purchases: $0.20–$10 (5,000–250,000 VND).

• Location: Hanoi, Hoi An, Ha Long Bay, Vietnam.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Use bicycles or walk to reduce emissions; avoid littering at cultural sites.

• Tip: Confirm Golden Visa eligibility and apply through Immigration Department; check vietnam-visa.com; a guest from the US noted: “Self-guided exploration was seamless with the DT visa.”

2. Legend Travel Group (Group Golden Visa-Prepared Cultural Tour)

• Details: 1-day group tour visiting Hanoi’s Old Quarter and Temple of Literature; includes English-speaking guide, transport from Hanoi hotels, lunch, and entry fees; low difficulty.

• Visa Tips: Ensure valid DT visa for investors; carry a printed Golden Visa or passport photocopy; guides assist with residence registration travel.state.gov.

• Schedule: Daily; departs 7:00 AM from Hanoi hotels; returns by 4:00 PM.

• Cost: $25–$40/person (625,000–1,000,000 VND, includes transport and entry).

• Pick-up/Drop-off: Hotels in Hanoi.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Group transport with fuel-efficient vehicles minimizes impact; supports local communities.

• Tip: Book via legendtravelgroup.com; a guest from Canada noted: “Legend’s tour ensured Golden Visa compliance and cultural immersion.”

3. Local Vietnam (Combo Golden Visa-Prepared Cultural and Adventure Tour)

• Details: 1-day guided tour visiting Hoi An’s ancient town and a cycling tour; includes English-speaking guide, transport from Hoi An, lunch, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty.

• Visa Tips: Use DT visa for long-term residency; carry a printed Golden Visa or passport photocopy; confirm eligibility vietnam-visa.com.

• Schedule: Daily; departs 6:30 AM from Hoi An hotels; returns by 4:00 PM.

• Cost: $30–$50/person (750,000–1,250,000 VND, includes entry).

• Pick-up/Drop-off: Hotels in Hoi An.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Small groups and cycling reduce environmental impact; supports local communities.

• Tip: Book via localvietnam.com; a guest from France noted: “The combo tour was Golden Visa-ready and enriching.”

4. Multi-Day Golden Visa-Prepared Cultural and Adventure Tour (Legend Travel Group)

• Details: 2–3 day tour combining Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, and Hoi An; includes English-speaking guide, transport, accommodation, meals, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty.

• Visa Tips: Use DT visa for multi-city residency; carry a printed Golden Visa or passport photocopy; confirm temporary residence registration travel.state.gov.

• Schedule: Daily; departs from Hanoi hotels; returns after 2–3 days.

• Cost: $80–$200/person (2,000,000–5,000,000 VND, includes entries).

• Pick-up/Drop-off: Hotels or custom locations in Hanoi.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Uses eco-lodges and fuel-efficient transport; supports local communities.

• Tip: Book Vietnam Tours via legendtravelgroup.com or WhatsApp (+84 825862222); a guest from Germany noted: “The multi-day tour was a Golden Visa-smart cultural journey.”

• Self-Guided Exploration: Flexible and cost-effective, ideal for investors with Golden Visas (DT visas).

• Group Cultural Tours: Affordable and guided, perfect for Golden Visa-compliant cultural insights.

• Combo Cultural and Adventure Tours: Blend cultural visits with eco-friendly activities for a comprehensive journey.

• Multi-Day Cultural and Adventure Tours: Offer in-depth exploration with Golden Visa-smart itineraries.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Group and multi-day tours use fuel-efficient transport or bicycles, supporting Vietnam’s green tourism goals.

Key Golden Visa-prepared travel opportunities include:

• Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year): Typically late January to February, vibrant with temple ceremonies and family traditions; warm and dry (18–28°C); check dates at vietnam.travel.

• Hung Kings Festival: Typically March to April, honoring Vietnam’s founders; warm and dry (24–32°C); check dates at vietnam.travel.

• Mid-Autumn Festival: Typically September, festive with lantern parades; warm and wet (24–31°C); check dates at vietnam.travel.

• Cultural Site Visits: Dry season (January–August) for comfortable weather; February for optimal conditions vinpearl.com.

Dry season (January–August, 18–33°C) is ideal for cultural visits and festivals. Hot period (April–August, 24–33°C) suits early morning outings. Wet season (September–December, 24–31°C) is best for budget travelers and indoor experiences. Morning visits (6:00 AM–10:00 AM) avoid heat or rain. Verify forecasts via weather.com.

• Verify Eligibility: Check DT visa categories (DT1–DT4) based on investment amount (USD 120,000+); consult Vietnamese Immigration Department or embassy for details vietnam-visa.com.

• Investment Preparation: Gather proof of investment (e.g., business license, property deeds); minimum VND 3 billion for DT3; higher for DT1/DT2 with permanent residency pathway vietnam-visa.com.

• Documentation: Ensure passport validity (6+ months); carry investment documents or Golden Visa photocopy; keep a photocopy of passport bio page separately travel.state.gov.

• Residence Registration: Confirm hotels or investment properties register your stay with local police within 24 hours; carry proof of registration travel.state.gov.

• Eco-Tip: Invest in eco-friendly projects like sustainable tourism to align with Vietnam’s green goals; use bicycles for local travel.

• Tip: Apply for Golden Visa 1–3 months early; double-check details; carry small VND notes for local purchases; consult a Vietnamese embassy for personalized advice.

Pack for a comfortable, sustainable visit:

• Documents: Passport (valid 6+ months), printed Golden Visa (DT visa), investment proof (e.g., business license), passport photocopy, wallet ($2 or 50,000 VND), tour bookings.

• Clothing: Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees for temple visits; lightweight scarf ($1 or 25,000 VND); quick-dry clothing and raincoat ($2 or 50,000 VND) for wet season; lightweight clothing like cotton or linen and light jacket ($3 or 75,000 VND) for dry season; waterproof shoes ($3 or 75,000 VND); hat ($2 or 50,000 VND).

• Essentials: Reusable water bottle ($2 or 50,000 VND); snacks ($0.20–$1 or 5,000–25,000 VND, e.g., pho); small backpack ($2 or 50,000 VND); sunscreen ($1 or 25,000 VND); insect repellent ($1 or 25,000 VND).

• Tech: Phone with translation apps (e.g., Google Translate); charger ($3–$5 or 75,000–125,000 VND); local SIM ($2–$3 or 50,000–75,000 VND); waterproof camera ($6 or 150,000 VND) for photos.

• Eco Items: Reusable tote ($1 or 25,000 VND) for purchases; phrase card ($1 or 25,000 VND) with Vietnamese basics.

• Extras: Small VND notes for donations or purchases; small first aid kit ($2 or 50,000 VND); umbrella ($2 or 50,000 VND) for wet season; money belt ($2 or 50,000 VND) for valuables. Tip: Pack light (1 small bag, max 5 kg); reusable items support sustainability.

Costs for Golden Visa-Prepared Travel to Vietnam

Golden Visa and Travel Costs

• DT3 Visa Costs: Application fees $25–$50 (625,000–1,250,000 VND); investment minimum VND 3 billion (~USD 120,000) vietnam-visa.com.

• DT1/DT2 Visa Costs: Application fees $50–$100 (1,250,000–2,500,000 VND); investment minimum VND 50–100 billion (~USD 2–4 million) vietnam-visa.com.

• Extension Costs: $25–$100 (625,000–2,500,000 VND), depending on duration vietnam-visa.com.

• Self-Guided Exploration: Entry: free (markets); Hoi An: $5–$7 (125,000–175,000 VND); Temple of Literature: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND); transport (bicycle: $1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND/day; motorbike taxi: $0.50–$2 or 12,500–50,000 VND).

• Group Cultural Tours: $25–$40 (625,000–1,000,000 VND, includes transport and entry).

• Combo Cultural and Adventure Tours: $30–$50 (750,000–1,250,000 VND, includes entry).

• Multi-Day Cultural and Adventure Tours: $80–$200 (2,000,000–5,000,000 VND, includes entries). Safety-Related Costs

• Money Belt: $2 (50,000 VND).

• Local SIM for Emergency Calls: $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND).

• Travel Insurance (Recommended): $10–$30 (250,000–750,000 VND). Other Costs

• Local Snacks (e.g., banh mi, pho): $0.20–$1 (5,000–25,000 VND).

• Souvenirs (e.g., crafts, textiles): $0.20–$10 (5,000–250,000 VND).

• Donations: $0.20–$1 (5,000–25,000 VND). Total Daily Cost (Per Person)

• Budget: $15–$40 (self-guided, snacks, transport, entry).

• Mid-range: $40–$70 (group tour, purchases).

• Luxury: $70–$120 (private tour, premium souvenirs). Tip: Budget $15–$120 for tours, Golden Visa costs (if applicable), and transport; $0.20–$10 for purchases or add-ons; use DT visas to save on repeated entry costs.

• Investment Tips: Choose DT3 for minimum VND 3 billion (~USD 120,000) in real estate or business; consult Immigration Department for DT1/DT2 with permanent residency pathways; verify sectors for incentives vietnam-visa.com.

• Etiquette: Use “xin chào”; dress modestly for temples; respect local customs; avoid littering at cultural sites.

• Access: Choose self-guided exploration for flexibility, group tours for investment-compliant insights, or multi-day tours for immersion.

• Schedules: Cultural sites open 8:00 AM–5:00 PM; markets open 6:00 AM–6:00 PM; peak crowds in dry season (January–August); book early for festivals.

• Sustainability: Use bicycles or motorbike taxis; carry reusable items; support local vendors with fair purchases.

• Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) for cities like Hanoi or Hoi An.

• Weather: Dry season (Jan–Aug, 18–33°C) ideal; hot period (Apr–Aug, 24–33°C) suits early mornings; wet season (Sep–Dec, 24–31°C) requires rain gear; check forecasts via weather.com.

• Safety Note: Secure valuables with a money belt ($2 or 50,000 VND); beware of pickpocketing in markets or nightlife areas; carry emergency numbers (Police: 113, Medical: 115, nearest embassy).

• What is Vietnam’s Golden Visa? A residency by investment program through DT visas, offering 1–10 year residency for investments starting at USD 120,000 vietnam-visa.com.

• What are the investment options? Real estate, business setup, or prioritized sectors; DT3: VND 3 billion (~USD 120,000); DT1: VND 100 billion (~USD 4 million) with permanent residency pathway vietnam-visa.com.

• How much does Vietnam’s Golden Visa cost? Application fees $25–$100 (625,000–2,500,000 VND); investment minimum VND 3 billion for DT3 vietnam-visa.com.

• Can Golden Visas be extended? Yes, with continued investment; fees $25–$100 (625,000–2,500,000 VND) vietnam-visa.com.

• What are the penalties for overstaying? Fines of 500,000 VND/day ($20/day); potential exit bans or deportation travel.state.gov.

• Is there a pathway to permanent residence? Yes, for DT1/DT2 after 5 years of residency vietnam-visa.com.

Enhance your Golden Visa-prepared Vietnam journey with eco-conscious tours from Legend Travel Group:

• Vietnam Cultural Eco-Tour ($25–$40/person, 1 day): Guided temple and market tour with sustainable practices.

• Vietnam Cultural and Adventure Trail ($80–$150/person, 2 days): Explore cultural sites and eco-friendly activities.

• Vietnam Explorer ($150–$250/person, 3 days): Multi-site adventure with eco-lodges and community-focused activities. Prices include guides, transport, and entry fees; group discounts available. Explore options at legendtravelgroup.com or contact sales@legendtravelgroup.com / WhatsApp (+84825862222) for your Vietnam Travel plans.

Mastering Vietnam Golden Visa Investment Options with cultural etiquette—modest attire, polite greetings like “xin chào,” and investment-smart planning—unlocks a vibrant, eco-friendly journey through this Southeast Asian gem. With tour costs from $15–$200, sustainable Vietnam Tours, and attractions like Hoi An and Ha Long Bay, this trip offers residency and sustainability for international investors. Whether choosing a self-guided or guided experience with Vietnam Travel, leverage DT visas for long-term stays and respect local customs for the best experience. Safe travels!

Sources:

• vietnam-visa.com

• travel.state.gov

• evisa.gov.vn

• vinpearl.com

• vietnam.travel