Plan your Vietnam adventure with our guide to the Golden Visa program! Read reviews, learn requirements, eligibility, costs, cultural site visits, eco-friendly Vietnam Tours, and top providers for a seamless experience with Vietnam Travel. Start your journey today!
Begin your Golden Visa day with Vietnam’s tranquil ambiance (Source: Internet)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, please note: Vietnam introduced a Golden Visa program in 2025, offering 5-10 year residency for investors and high-net-worth individuals. This long-term visa aims to attract global talent, retirees, and investors, with renewable terms and pathways to permanent residency. Reviews highlight its affordability compared to other Golden Visas, but eligibility requires significant investment or qualifications. This guide reviews the program, including eligibility, application, reviews from early adopters, and travel tips for a seamless journey.
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 program, including reviews, ensures smooth long-term residency for investors and retirees from all countries, whether joining guided Vietnam Tours or settling independently. The Golden Visa offers 5-10 year renewable residency, attracting high-net-worth individuals with its low costs and investment opportunities vietnam-visa.com. Early reviews praise its simplicity and access to Vietnam’s growing economy, though some note bureaucratic hurdles. This guide provides practical visa insights, reviews, cultural tips, and eco-friendly Vietnam Travel options for international applicants.
Following Vietnam’s updated travel regulations, the Golden Visa program facilitates long-term stays via investment or qualifications, accessible through Vietnamese embassies or immigration offices. This guide blends Golden Visa requirements, reviews, and sustainable Vietnam Travel ideas for a worry-free adventure.
The Golden Visa is available to high-net-worth individuals, investors, retirees, and professionals from all countries, with a term of 5-10 years (renewable) and costs $25-$100 (625,000–2,500,000 VND) depending on type. 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). Permanent residency possible after 5 years. Verify eligibility and reviews via evisa.gov.vn or travel.state.gov.
Standard Golden Visa:
Purpose: Long-term residency for investors, retirees, and high-net-worth individuals.
Eligibility: Applicants from all countries with investments in Vietnam (e.g., real estate, business), or retirees/professionals meeting financial thresholds (e.g., $400,000 investment or equivalent) vietnam-visa.com.
Duration: 5-10 years, renewable vietnam-visa.com.
Cost: $25-$100 (625,000–2,500,000 VND), depending on investment level and processing vietnam-visa.com.
Requirements: Passport valid for 6 months with two blank pages; proof of investment or financial stability (e.g., bank statements, property deeds); application through Vietnamese immigration offices or embassies travel.state.gov.
Extension: Renewable for additional periods; permanent residency after 5 years with continuous residency vietnam-visa.com.
Reviews: Early adopters praise affordability compared to European Golden Visas, with 5-10 year terms and renewal options. Some note bureaucratic delays but highlight economic growth benefits vietnam-visa.com.
Investor Golden Visa:
Purpose: Residency for foreign investors contributing to Vietnam’s economy.
Eligibility: Investors from all countries with minimum investment (e.g., $400,000 in real estate or business) vietnam-visa.com.
Duration: 10 years, renewable; pathway to permanent residency after 5 years vietnam-visa.com.
Cost: $25-$100 (625,000–2,500,000 VND), plus investment costs vietnam-visa.com.
Requirements: Proof of investment (e.g., business registration, property title); application at Vietnamese immigration offices travel.state.gov.
Extension: Renewable; permanent residency after 5 years vietnam-visa.com.
Reviews: Investors highlight access to Vietnam’s booming economy and low costs, though some review bureaucratic processes as challenging vietnam-visa.com.
Key Restrictions:
Applicants must not fall under suspension categories (e.g., security risks) as per Vietnam’s immigration laws evisa.gov.vn.
Temporary residence registration is mandatory within 24 hours, typically handled by hotels or sponsors travel.state.gov.
Overstay penalties: 500,000 VND/day ($20/day); potential exit bans or deportation travel.state.gov.
Important Note: The Golden Visa program, introduced in 2025, targets investors and retirees with affordable options compared to global programs. Reviews emphasize its potential for long-term residency but advise consulting professionals for application vietnam-visa.com.
Passport: Valid for at least 6 months from entry date with two blank pages travel.state.gov.
Golden Visa Application: Requires proof of investment or qualifications (e.g., bank statements, property deeds); apply through Vietnamese immigration or embassies; ensure details match passport vietnam-visa.com.
Residence Registration: Mandatory within 24 hours, handled by sponsors or hotels; carry proof of registration travel.state.gov.
Cultural etiquette ensures a smooth integration for Golden Visa holders during Vietnam Tours. 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 passport or Golden Visa photocopy securely. Avoid public criticism of the Vietnamese government (penalties apply). A guest shared: “Respecting Vietnamese customs made our Golden Visa residency 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; complete residence registration within 24 hours (handled by sponsors) travel.state.gov.
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 handy for checks. Tony Bùi notes: “In 20 years guiding, I’ve seen Golden Visa holders 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 Golden 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 journey, based on the latest data from vietnam-visa.com, travel.state.gov, evisa.gov.vn, 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 with Golden Visa; suitable for long-term residents; low to moderate difficulty vietnam.travel.
Visa Tips: Use the 5-10 year Golden Visa for extended stays; carry Golden Visa photocopy; 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 eligibility and carry photocopy; check vietnam-visa.com; 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 with Golden Visa; includes English-speaking guide, transport from Hanoi hotels, lunch, and entry fees; low difficulty.
Visa Tips: Ensure Golden Visa validity; carry 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 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 with Golden Visa; 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 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 noted: “The combo tour was Golden Visa-ready and enriching.”
Details: 2–3 day tour combining Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, and Hoi An with Golden Visa; includes English-speaking guide, transport, accommodation, meals, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty.
Visa Tips: Use Golden Visa for multi-city travel; carry photocopy; 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 long-term 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 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 crowds and heat. Verify forecasts via weather.com.
Verify Eligibility: Check investment thresholds ($400,000 minimum for real estate or business); retirees or professionals may qualify with financial proof vietnam-visa.com.
Application Process: Submit proof of investment or qualifications (e.g., bank statements, property deeds) to Vietnamese immigration offices or embassies; ensure passport validity (6+ months) vietnam-visa.com.
Reviews: Early reviews praise affordability and renewal options, but note bureaucratic delays; consult professionals for application vietnam-visa.com.
Eco-Tip: Use digital documents to reduce paper waste; opt for bicycles or motorbike taxis for sustainable travel.
Tip: Apply 3–6 months in advance; double-check details to match passport; carry Golden Visa photocopy; check status through immigration offices. For embassy applications, contact the nearest Vietnamese embassy (e.g., Phnom Penh: +855 23 726 274).
Pack for a comfortable, sustainable visit:
Documents: Passport (valid 6+ months), Golden Visa ($25–$100 or 625,000–2,500,000 VND), Golden Visa photocopy, proof of investment/qualifications (e.g., bank statements), 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.
Visa and Travel Costs
Golden Visa Costs: $25–$100 (625,000–2,500,000 VND), plus investment ($400,000+ for real estate/business); renewal fees vary ($25–$50 or 625,000–1,250,000 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 costs, and transport; $0.20–$10 for purchases or add-ons; reviews highlight the Golden Visa’s value for long-term stays.
Visa Tips: Check eligibility for Golden Visa (investment $400,000+); apply through immigration offices or embassies; renew after 5-10 years; reviews praise affordability but note delays 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 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).
What is Vietnam’s Golden Visa? A 5-10 year renewable residency visa for investors and high-net-worth individuals, with pathways to permanent residency after 5 years vietnam-visa.com.
Who is eligible for Vietnam’s Golden Visa? High-net-worth individuals, investors (e.g., $400,000 in real estate/business), retirees, and professionals vietnam-visa.com.
How much does Vietnam’s Golden Visa cost? $25–$100 (625,000–2,500,000 VND), plus investment costs; renewal fees vary vietnam-visa.com.
Can the Golden Visa be extended? Yes, renewable for additional periods; permanent residency after 5 years with continuous residency vietnam-visa.com.
What are reviews of Vietnam’s Golden Visa? Early reviews praise affordability and economic access, but note bureaucratic delays; consult professionals for application vietnam-visa.com.
Is Visa on Arrival available for Golden Visa? No, discontinued in 2022; Golden Visa requires application through immigration or embassies vietnam-visa.com.
Enhance your Golden Visa 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 Visa Reviews Golden Visa with cultural etiquette—modest attire, polite greetings like “xin chào,” and visa-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 Golden Visa holders. Whether choosing a self-guided or guided experience with Vietnam Travel, leverage the affordable Golden Visa 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
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