Plan your Vietnam residency with our guide to the Golden Visa process! Learn about eligibility, application steps, benefits, cultural site visits, eco-friendly Vietnam Tours, and top providers for a seamless experience with Vietnam Travel. Start your journey today!
Seize the cultural essence of Vietnam’s artistryWritten 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, evisa.gov.vn, travel.state.gov, vinpearl.com, and vietnam.travel. Information based on the latest data; verify before travel. Reflects Vietnam’s updated travel regulations.
Investors and professionals, please note: Vietnam's Golden Visa program was launched in 2025. This initiative offers long-term residency (5-10 years) through investment, attracting foreign investors, skilled professionals, and high-net-worth individuals. The program provides residency, family inclusion, and pathways to permanent residence, with applications processed through Vietnamese immigration authorities. This guide details the process for international applicants, eligibility, benefits, and travel tips for a seamless experience.
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 the Golden Visa process ensures smooth residency for international investors and professionals, whether joining guided Vietnam Tours or establishing long-term stays. The Golden Visa, launched in 2025, offers 5-10 year residency through investment in real estate, business, or other sectors, facilitating family inclusion and pathways to permanent residence vietnam-visa.com. This guide provides practical process insights, cultural tips, and eco-friendly Vietnam Travel options for applicants from all countries.
Following Vietnam’s updated regulations, the Golden Visa is accessible via investment thresholds and online applications. This guide blends process details, eligibility, benefits, and sustainable Vietnam Travel ideas for a worry-free residency.
International applicants from all countries can apply for Vietnam’s Golden Visa through investment ($100,000–$500,000 in real estate or business). Passports must be valid for at least 6 months with two blank pages. 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 is required within 24 hours, handled by sponsors or hotels. Verify Golden Visa requirements via evisa.gov.vn or travel.state.gov.
Standard Golden Visa:
Purpose: Long-term residency through investment in real estate, business, or high-tech sectors.
Eligibility: Citizens of all countries with qualifying investments; no age limit; family inclusion (spouse, children under 18) vietnam-visa.com.
Duration: 5-10 years, renewable; pathway to permanent residence after 5 years vietnam-visa.com.
Cost: Investment thresholds: $100,000 (real estate in designated areas), $200,000 (business startup), $500,000 (high-tech or innovation sectors); application fees $10–$50 (250,000–1,250,000 VND); non-refundable vietnam-visa.com.
Requirements: Passport valid for 6+ months with two blank pages; proof of investment (e.g., real estate deed, business registration); criminal record certificate; health certificate; sponsor letter from Vietnamese partner or agency vietnam-visa.com.
Extension: Renewable for additional 5-10 years with proof of continued investment; fees apply ($10 or 250,000 VND) vietnam-visa.com.
Entry/Exit Points: Valid at 13 airports (e.g., Noi Bai, Tan Son Nhat, Da Nang), 16 land borders (e.g., Moc Bai, Lao Cai), and 13 seaports (e.g., Nha Trang, Da Nang) vietnam.travel.
Application Process:
Purpose: To obtain long-term residency through investment.
Eligibility: Available to citizens of all countries with qualifying investments vietnam-visa.com.
Duration: 5-10 years (renewable) vietnam-visa.com.
Cost: Investment $100,000–$500,000; application fees $10–$50 (250,000–1,250,000 VND) vietnam-visa.com.
Application Process:
Gather documents: passport, investment proof, criminal record, health certificate, sponsor letter vietnam-visa.com.
Submit application online via Vietnam's immigration portal or in person at a Vietnamese embassy vietnam-visa.com.
Pay fees and await approval (30–90 days) vietnam-visa.com.
Receive Golden Visa sticker or card; enter Vietnam at approved checkpoints vietnam-visa.com.
Register temporary residence within 24 hours upon arrival travel.state.gov.
Processing Time: 30–90 days; expedited options available for additional fees ($20–$50 or 500,000–1,250,000 VND) vietnam-visa.com.
Extension: Renewable with proof of continued investment; apply 30 days before expiration vietnam-visa.com.
Key Restrictions:
Applicants 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, handled by sponsors or hotels travel.state.gov.
Overstay penalties: 500,000 VND/day ($20/day); potential deportation travel.state.gov.
Important Note: The Golden Visa is a new program launched in 2025; requirements may evolve; consult Vietnamese immigration authorities for updates vietnam-visa.com.
Passport: Valid for at least 6 months from entry date with two blank pages travel.state.gov.
Investment Proof: Documents showing qualifying investment (e.g., real estate deed, business license) vietnam-visa.com.
Criminal Record and Health Certificate: Required for application; health certificate must confirm no communicable diseases vietnam-visa.com.
Sponsor: A Vietnamese partner or agency letter is mandatory vietnam-visa.com.
Cultural etiquette ensures a smooth residency during Vietnam Tours, complementing the Golden Visa process. 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 quiet demeanor at cultural sites; ask permission before photographing locals or rituals; carry Golden Visa documents securely. Avoid public criticism of the Vietnamese government (penalties apply). A guest shared: “Respecting Vietnamese customs made our residency application 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 Golden Visa documents handy for checks. Tony Bùi notes: “In 20 years guiding, I’ve seen Golden Visa applicants 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 PassApp for ride-hailing; offline maps (Maps.me) for cities like Hanoi or Hoi An; carry Golden Visa 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.
Details: Explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Hoi An’s ancient town, or Ha Long Bay independently after Golden Visa approval; suitable for investors with valid residency; low to moderate difficulty vietnam.travel.
Visa Tips: Use Golden Visa for long-term stays; carry Golden Visa card or sticker; register residence upon arrival vietnam-visa.com.
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 validity; check evisa.gov.vn; a guest noted: “Self-guided exploration was seamless with the Golden Visa.”
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 Golden Visa; carry Golden Visa card or sticker; 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 noted: “Legend’s tour ensured Golden Visa compliance and cultural immersion.”
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 Golden Visa for long-term stays; carry Golden Visa card or sticker; 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 noted: “The combo tour was Golden Visa-ready and enriching.”
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 Golden Visa for multi-city residency; carry Golden Visa card or sticker; confirm 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 noted: “The multi-day tour was a Golden Visa-smart cultural journey.”
Self-Guided Exploration: Flexible and cost-effective, ideal for Golden Visa holders with navigation skills.
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 Golden Visa applications. 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 investment thresholds ($100,000–$500,000); ensure passport validity (6+ months); prepare criminal record and health certificate vietnam-visa.com.
Gather Documents: Collect investment proof, sponsor letter, passport, and supporting documents; apply online or at a Vietnamese embassy vietnam-visa.com.
Application Steps: Submit application, pay fees, and await approval (30–90 days); receive Golden Visa sticker or card vietnam-visa.com.
Residence Registration: Register temporary residence within 24 hours upon entry, handled by sponsors or hotels travel.state.gov.
Eco-Tip: Use digital application copies to reduce paper waste; opt for bicycles or motorbike taxis after entry for sustainable travel.
Tip: Apply 30–90 days early; double-check details to match passport; carry small VND notes for local purchases; check status via Vietnamese immigration portal. For embassy applications, contact the nearest Vietnamese embassy (e.g., Washington D.C.: +1 202 861 0737, London: +44 20 7937 1912).
Pack for a comfortable, sustainable visit:
Documents: Passport (valid 6+ months), Golden Visa application proof, investment documents, criminal record/health certificate, 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.
Golden Visa and Travel Costs
Golden Visa Costs: Investment: $100,000–$500,000; application fees: $10–$50 (250,000–1,250,000 VND); renewal fees: $10 (250,000 VND) 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 fees (if applicable), and transport; $0.20–$10 for purchases or add-ons; use Golden Visa for long-term savings.
Golden Visa Tips: Check eligibility for investment thresholds ($100,000–$500,000); gather documents like passport, investment proof, criminal record; apply online or at embassy; ensure sponsor letter from Vietnamese partner 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 Golden Visa-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).
Who is eligible for Vietnam’s Golden Visa? Citizens of all countries with qualifying investments ($100,000–$500,000 in real estate or business); family inclusion available vietnam-visa.com.
How do I apply for Vietnam’s Golden Visa? Gather documents (passport, investment proof, criminal record, health certificate, sponsor letter); submit online or at embassy; pay fees ($10–$50); await approval (30–90 days) vietnam-visa.com.
How much does Vietnam’s Golden Visa cost? Investment: $100,000–$500,000; application fees: $10–$50 (250,000–1,250,000 VND); renewal fees: $10 (250,000 VND) vietnam-visa.com.
Can the Golden Visa be extended? Yes, renewable for additional 5-10 years with proof of continued investment vietnam-visa.com.
What are the penalties for overstaying? Fines of 500,000 VND/day ($20/day); potential deportation travel.state.gov.
Is there a pathway to permanent residence? Yes, after 5 years of Golden Visa 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 Process with cultural etiquette—modest attire, polite greetings like “xin chào,” and process-smart planning—unlocks a vibrant, eco-friendly residency in 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 adventure and sustainability for international investors. Whether choosing a self-guided or guided experience with Vietnam Travel, invest wisely and respect local customs for the best experience. Safe travels!
Sources:
vietnam-visa.com
evisa.gov.vn
travel.state.gov
vinpearl.com
vietnam.travel
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