Vietnam has recently taken significant steps to streamline its immigration policies, aiming to attract more foreign investment, tourism, and talent. A key development in 2025 is the Prime Minister’s Directive No. 06/CT-TTg, which tasks the Ministry of Public Security with revising visa and residence policies to simplify administrative procedures. Among the highlights is the exploration of mechanisms for purchasing residence cards in Vietnam. This article breaks down what this means for foreigners and the current legal landscape.
As of 2025, Vietnam does not have a direct “purchase” mechanism for residence cards. Residence permits (thẻ tạm trú) are typically granted based on specific eligibility criteria, such as:
Residence cards are tied to these conditions and require documentation, such as work permits, marriage certificates, or investment licenses. There is no legal provision allowing foreigners to “buy” a residence card outright without meeting these requirements.
The Prime Minister’s Directive No. 06 signals potential reforms to make residence policies more flexible. Key tasks assigned to the Ministry of Public Security include:
While the term “purchasing residence cards” appears in the Directive, it likely refers to creating expedited pathways for eligible groups—not a direct financial transaction. For example, Vietnam may introduce “golden visa” programs similar to other countries, where significant investors or talents receive residency privileges faster.
By March 2025, the Ministry of Public Security will finalize its proposals. Potential changes could include:
Foreigners interested in long-term stays should monitor updates from Vietnamese authorities. While outright “purchasing” remains unlikely, Vietnam is moving toward a more open and efficient system to attract global talent and capital.
For now, foreigners must adhere to existing regulations. However, the upcoming reforms promise greater convenience for those contributing to Vietnam’s economic and social goals.