Key Changes in Vietnam’s Nationality Law: What Foreign Workers and Experts Need to Know

Vietnam’s updated Nationality Law, effective on July 1, 2025, brings bold new changes to attract skilled foreign professionals. The new reforms are consistent with Decree 16/2020/ND-CP and are consistent with Resolution 57-NQ/TW to streamline the citizenship process and remove long-standing barriers.

What Citizenship Requirements Have Been Relaxed?

Foreigners who have demonstrated effective contributions to the development or defence of Vietnam will be exempted from the major criteria as follows: 

• Sufficient knowledge of the Vietnamese language. 
• Required a minimum of five years residence.
• Relevant proofs of financial viability.

All exemptions apply to certified investors, scientists and experts.

Who Qualifies for These Exemptions?

Eligibility criteria is defined in Article 8 of Decree 16. In order to be eligible, applicants must:

Receive formal acceptance from Vietnamese authorities.

Prove that they have exceptional talent in an arena such as scientific research, culture or the medical field.

Can Foreigners Retain Dual Citizenship?

Yes. Dual citizenship is permitted for eligible applicants with the approval of the president and may include applicants of Vietnamese background and applicants living abroad.

Is a Vietnamese Name Still Required?

No. The new legislation abolishes the requirement to adopt a Vietnamese name. Applicants can now keep their foreign name or adopt a Vietnamese name in conjunction with their foreign name.

How Is the Application Process Changing?

To streamline the process, the law recognises:

Simplified forms and verification requirements.

Intent to be digitised.

Authorise overseas offices of the government to establish citizenship.