On 8/8/2025, the Vietnamese government issued Decree 221, which stipulates visa exemptions for foreigners in special categories to promote socioeconomic development.

Six specific categories qualify for these exemptions. The first group includes individuals invited by high-ranking Vietnamese officials: the General Secretary, the President, the National Assembly Chairperson, the Prime Minister, the Permanent Member of the Secretariat, the Vice President, the Vice Chairperson of the National Assembly, the Deputy Prime Minister, the President of the Vietnam Fatherland Front Central Committee, the Chief Justice of the Supreme People's Court, the Director of the Supreme People's Procuracy, the State Auditor General, ministers and equivalent officials, provincial party secretaries, chairpersons of People's Councils, and chairpersons of People's Committees of provinces and cities.

Scholars, experts, scientists, university and research institute professors, chief engineers, and highly skilled professionals in the digital technology sector are also eligible. Scientists and engineers must have received prestigious international awards or recognition. Investors and leaders of major global corporations will be granted visa exemptions if their companies are listed among the top 100 globally by market capitalization, as ranked annually by reputable international organizations.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh strolls through the Old Quarter with Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang during Mr. Huang's second visit to Vietnam in late 2024. *Photo: Giang Huy*

Prominent figures in culture, arts, sports, and tourism who have a positive public image also qualify. Football players must be listed among the top 100 players globally by reputable international organizations and invited by a professional Vietnamese football club for competition or exchange.

Other eligible individuals include Vietnam's honorary consuls abroad and those invited by research institutes, universities, and large corporations. The government will determine the specific list of eligible institutions. The Minister of Public Security will decide on other cases requiring visa exemptions for diplomatic purposes or socioeconomic development.

Special visa exemption cards are available in two formats: electronic and chip-embedded physical cards, both with equal legal validity. The issuing authority can choose either format. The exemption period cannot exceed 5 years and must be at least 30 days shorter than the remaining validity of the passport.

In early 4/2025, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh directed relevant ministries and agencies to research visa exemption policies for influential international visitors.

Vu Tuan