Plan your Vietnam residency with our guide to golden visa taxes! Learn about investment visas, tax obligations, benefits for international investors, eco-friendly Vietnam Tours, and top providers for a seamless experience with Vietnam Travel. Start your journey today!
Duong Thot Not Jaggery Sugar in An Giang ProvinceWritten 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.
Investors, please note: Vietnam does not have an official "Golden Visa" program like some European countries.However, international investors can obtain long-term visas through investment (DT visas), business (DN visas), or residency permits, with associated tax obligations. This guide details visa options for investors, tax implications, and travel tips for a seamless residency and exploration journey in Vietnam.
Vietnam, a dynamic Southeast Asian destination, offers attractive investment opportunities in real estate, manufacturing, and tourism, alongside 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 "golden visa" options (investment-based long-term visas) and associated taxes ensures smooth residency for international investors, whether joining guided Vietnam Tours or establishing a base. Investors benefit from DT visas for direct investment or DN visas for business activities, with tax rates on income, property, and capital gains vietnam-visa.com. This guide provides practical visa insights, tax obligations, cultural etiquette, and eco-friendly Vietnam Travel options for international investors.
Following Vietnam’s updated travel 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 visa requirements for investors, tax implications, and sustainable Vietnam Travel ideas for a worry-free residency and adventure.
International investors can apply for DT visas (up to 5 years) with investments of $100,000+ or DN visas (up to 12 months) for business activities, with tax rates of 20% on personal income, 1% on property, and 0.1% on land transfers. 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 with local police is required within 14 days, typically handled by sponsors or hotels. Verify visa and tax requirements via evisa.gov.vn or travel.state.gov.
DT Visa (Investor Visa):
Purpose: Residency for foreign investors in Vietnam.
Eligibility: International investors with direct investments in Vietnamese companies or projects vietnam-visa.com.
Duration: Up to 5 years, renewable; DT1 for investments of $3 million+ (5 years), DT2 for $1–3 million (4 years), DT3 for $100,000–1 million (3 years), DT4 for less than $100,000 (12 months) vietnam-visa.com.
Cost: Application fees $25–$100 (625,000–2,500,000 VND), depending on duration and type vietnam-visa.com.
Requirements: Proof of investment (e.g., business registration certificate, investment license); passport valid for 6 months with two blank pages; application through a Vietnamese sponsor or immigration office travel.state.gov.
Taxes: Personal income tax: 20% for non-residents, 5–35% progressive for residents; property tax: 1% on land value; capital gains tax: 20% on profits from investments travel.state.gov.
Extension: Renewable with proof of ongoing investment; fees apply ($10–$50 or 250,000–1,250,000 VND) vietnam-visa.com.
Entry/Exit Points: Valid at 13 airports, 16 land borders, and 13 seaports vietnam.travel.
DN Visa (Business Visa):
Purpose: Short-term business activities, leading to potential residency.
Eligibility: International investors with business invitations from Vietnamese companies vietnam-visa.com.
Duration: Up to 12 months, multiple entry vietnam-visa.com.
Cost: $25–$100 (625,000–2,500,000 VND), depending on duration vietnam-visa.com.
Requirements: Business invitation letter, passport, application form; apply at Vietnamese embassy or through e-visa for short stays travel.state.gov.
Taxes: Business income tax: 20% for foreign enterprises; VAT: 10% on goods/services travel.state.gov.
Extension: Extendable for 3–6 months with sponsor; fees apply ($10–$50 or 250,000–1,250,000 VND) vietnam-visa.com.
Temporary Residence Card (TRC):
Purpose: Long-term residency for investors.
Eligibility: DT or DN visa holders with investments or business activities vietnam-visa.com.
Duration: 1–10 years, based on investment level vietnam-visa.com.
Cost: $100–$200 (2,500,000–5,000,000 VND) vietnam-visa.com.
Requirements: Proof of investment/business, health check, police clearance; apply through immigration office travel.state.gov.
Taxes: Residents pay progressive income tax (5–35%); non-residents pay 20% flat rate travel.state.gov.
Key Tax Obligations:
Personal Income Tax: 20% for non-residents; 5–35% for residents on global income travel.state.gov.
Property Tax: 0.03–0.15% on land value annually travel.state.gov.
Capital Gains Tax: 20% on profits from investments or property sales travel.state.gov.
VAT: 10% on most goods and services; exempt for certain exports travel.state.gov.
Important Note: Vietnam does not have a formal "Golden Visa" program, but DT visas and TRCs serve similar purposes for investors. Consult a tax advisor for personalized advice vietnam-visa.com.
Passport: Valid for at least 6 months from entry date with two blank pages travel.state.gov.
Investment Proof: Business registration, investment license for DT visas; invitation letter for DN visas vietnam-visa.com.
Residence Registration: Mandatory within 14 days for TRC holders, handled by immigration office travel.state.gov.
Tax Compliance: Register for tax code upon residency; file annual tax returns travel.state.gov.
Cultural etiquette ensures a smooth residency during Vietnam Tours for 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 government offices or markets culturetrip.com.
Dress: Wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees for temple visits (e.g., Temple of Literature); business attire for tax offices or meetings vinpearl.com.
Behaviour: Maintain a calm demeanor at immigration or tax offices; ask permission before photographing locals or rituals; carry investment documents securely. Avoid public criticism of the Vietnamese government (penalties apply). A guest shared: “Respecting Vietnamese customs eased our golden visa process.” 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; complete residence registration within 14 days travel.state.gov.
Tip: Say “cảm ơn” (thank you) to officials 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 business areas like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, but translation apps are useful culturetrip.com.
Respect: Follow office rules (no photography in sensitive areas); respect local vendors with fair purchases in markets.
Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) for cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City; carry a printed visa or passport photocopy 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 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 obtaining your DT visa; suitable for investors with valid residency; low to moderate difficulty vietnam.travel.
Visa Tips: Use DT visas for long-term stays; carry a printed visa or passport photocopy; register residence within 14 days 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 cruises available daily.
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 DT visa eligibility; check evisa.gov.vn; a guest from the US noted: “Self-guided exploration was smooth with the DT visa.”
Details: 1-day group tour visiting Hanoi’s Old Quarter and Temple of Literature for investors; includes English-speaking guide, transport from Hanoi hotels, lunch, and entry fees; low difficulty.
Visa Tips: Ensure valid DT visa; carry a printed 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 France noted: “Legend’s tour ensured visa compliance and cultural immersion.”
Details: 1-day guided tour visiting Hoi An’s ancient town and a cycling tour for investors; includes English-speaking guide, transport from Hoi An, lunch, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty.
Visa Tips: Use DT visas for long-term residency; carry a printed 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 Canada noted: “The combo tour was golden visa-ready and enriching.”
Details: 2–3 day tour combining Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, and Hoi An for investors; includes English-speaking guide, transport, accommodation, meals, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty.
Visa Tips: Use DT visas for multi-city residency; carry a printed 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 the UK noted: “The multi-day tour was a golden visa-smart cultural journey.”
Self-Guided Exploration: Flexible and cost-effective, ideal for investors with golden visa-like residency.
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 golden visa-prepared visits and cultural exploration. Hot period (April–August, 24–33°C) suits early morning outings. Wet season (September–December, 24–31°C) is best for indoor experiences; expect rain at land borders. Morning visits (6:00 AM–10:00 AM) avoid heat or rain. Verify forecasts via weather.com.
Verify Visa Needs: Check eligibility for DT visas with investments of $100,000+ or DN visas for business; apply through Vietnamese immigration or embassies vietnam-visa.com.
Tax Preparation: Register for tax code upon residency; file annual returns for income tax (5–35% for residents); pay property tax (0.03–0.15%) and capital gains tax (20%); consult a tax advisor travel.state.gov.
Documentation: Ensure passport validity (6+ months); carry proof of investment (e.g., license); keep a photocopy of passport bio page separately travel.state.gov.
Residence Registration: Complete within 14 days for golden visa holders, handled by immigration office travel.state.gov.
Eco-Tip: Use digital visa copies to reduce paper waste; opt for bicycles or motorbike taxis for sustainable travel.
Tip: Apply for DT visas with investment proof; double-check tax obligations; carry small VND notes for local purchases; check visa status at evisa.gov.vn for related e-visas.
Pack for a comfortable, sustainable visit:
Documents: Passport (valid 6+ months), printed golden visa (DT visa) or e-visa ($25–$50 or 625,000–1,250,000 VND if applicable), investment proof (e.g., 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., banh mi); 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.
Visa and Travel Costs
DT Visa Costs: Application fees $25–$100 (625,000–2,500,000 VND), depending on investment level; renewal fees $10–$50 (250,000–1,250,000 VND) vietnam-visa.com.
DN Visa Costs: $25–$100 (625,000–2,500,000 VND), depending on duration vietnam-visa.com.
TRC Costs: $100–$200 (2,500,000–5,000,000 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, visa costs (if applicable), and transport; $0.20–$10 for purchases or add-ons; use golden visa options to save on long-term costs.
Visa Tips: Check eligibility for DT visas with investments of $100,000+ or DN visas for business; apply through Vietnamese immigration or embassies; use e-visas for initial entry vietnam-visa.com.
Tax Preparation: Register for tax code upon residency; file annual returns for income tax (5–35% for residents); pay property tax (0.03–0.15%) and capital gains tax (20%); consult a tax advisor travel.state.gov.
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 Ho Chi Minh City.
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).
Does Vietnam have a Golden Visa? Vietnam has no official Golden Visa, but DT visas for investors ($100,000+) and DN visas for business provide similar long-term residency vietnam-visa.com.
What are the tax obligations for Golden Visa holders? Residents pay progressive income tax (5–35%), property tax (0.03–0.15%), and capital gains tax (20%); non-residents pay 20% flat rate travel.state.gov.
How much does a Vietnam investment visa cost? DT visa: $25–$100 (625,000–2,500,000 VND), based on investment level; TRC: $100–$200 (2,500,000–5,000,000 VND) vietnam-visa.com.
Can Golden Visas be extended? DT visas renewable with ongoing investment; TRCs valid 1–10 years vietnam-visa.com.
What are the penalties for tax non-compliance? Fines up to 20% of unpaid tax, plus interest; potential visa revocation travel.state.gov.
Is Visa on Arrival available for investors? No, discontinued in 2022; use DT visas or e-visas for entry 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 Taxes with cultural etiquette—modest attire, polite greetings like “xin chào,” and tax-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 adventure and sustainability for international investors. Whether choosing a self-guided or guided experience with Vietnam Travel, leverage DT visas for residency, consult a tax advisor for obligations, and respect local customs for the best experience. Note that Vietnam has no official Golden Visa; plan accordingly. Safe travels!
Sources:
vietnam-visa.com
evisa.gov.vn
travel.state.gov
vinpearl.com
vietnam.travel
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