4 Powerful Features in Decree 191/2025: Procedures to Apply For Vietnamese Nationality That Bring Hope to Investors and Overseas Vietnamese

  

New Hopes, New Rules

Some decisions change lives. Others change nations.

Vietnam’s new nationality law may do both.

For years, foreign investors, Vietnamese born citizens abroad, and professionals have struggled with the uncertainty around Vietnam’s citizenship policy and how to apply for Vietnamese nationality. The requirements were complex. The possibility of holding dual nationality was almost always off the table.

That changes now.

Interestingly, the changes come at the time other powerful countries are apply hard policy on immigration matters!

In July 2025, a game changing regulation came into effect, Decree 191/2025 on Vietnamese Nationality. This is not just another rulebook. It is a gateway.

A gateway for those who consider to move to Vietnam. A framework for those who wish to live, invest, and belong officially.

Procedures to Apply for Vietnamese Nationality

Why Decree 191/2025 on Vietnamese Nationality Matters

Vietnam is changing fast. The economy is booming. Global companies are shifting production here. Talents, experts, and overseas Vietnamese are returning to reconnect with their roots. But one thing held many of them back: citizenship.

The legal process to apply for Vietnamese nationality, return, or keep Vietnamese nationality was previously difficult. There were legal obstacles. And for those holding foreign citizenship, very few options exist.

Decree 191/2025 on Vietnamese Nationality and how to apply for Vietnamese nationality is a response to these long-standing issues. It reflects Vietnam’s effort to modernize, internationalize, and humanize its nationality policies.

This decree provides clearer rules. And for the first time, it openly allows dual citizenship in specific cases.

Who Will Benefit and Why This Is a Turning Point

If you are a foreign investor living in Vietnam, a tech expert contributing to the country’s future, or an overseas Vietnamese who dreams of returning to apply for Vietnamese nationality, check for the eligibility for Vietnamese nationality, and the procedures on how to get Vietnamese nationality, and this decree might finally unlock your legal status.

Here is what it provides:

• A clearer process for acquiring or reclaiming Vietnamese nationality
• New flexibility for dual citizenship
• Specific exemptions for investors, experts, and descendants of Vietnamese citizens
• Reduced paperwork and digital submission options
• Transparent approval timelines

For many, this is the first time Vietnam offers a structured, welcoming path to official belonging.

What the New Policy Looks Like in Practice

Let’s imagine that you were born in Vietnam but have lived abroad for quite some time. You want to come home. Start a business. Maybe buy land in Vietnam. Now, with the help of Decree 191/2025 on Vietnamese Nationality, you can:

• Submit your request to return to Vietnamese nationality
• Prove your heritage and current contribution
• Request to keep your foreign nationality
• Receive a decision within a transparent time frame
• Become a dual citizen with full rights

Key Features of the Decree

Let’s explore the highlights of Decree 191/2025 on Vietnamese Nationality:

Dual Citizenship

This is the most powerful shift. The decree allows Vietnamese nationals to retain their foreign nationality, subject to:

• No national security risk
• Approval by the President of Vietnam
• Valid justification: economic, cultural, scientific contribution

Investor and Expert Exemptions

If you are an investor or expert in science, technology, education, or health, you may be exempt from:

• Residency time
• Language fluency
• Proof of financial self-sufficiency

Descendants of Vietnamese People

Children and grandchildren of Vietnamese nationals can:

• Reclaim Vietnamese nationality
• Request simplified procedures
• Apply even if they were never registered at birth in Vietnam

Legal Transparency

The decree sets a standardized process. It reduces discretion and ensures national unity in implementation.

Check How to Become a Vietnamese Citizen 

Decree 191/2025 on Vietnamese Nationality is Vietnam’s signal that it wants its people back. It wants international minds on its side.  You should act now if:

• You are an investor with long-term plans in Vietnam
• You were born in Vietnam and now live abroad
• You want to legally settle in Vietnam with your family
• You want your business leadership to reflect your citizenship

Step-by-Step Guide: Apply for Vietnamese Nationality

Step 1: Determine Eligibility to Apply for Vietnamese Nationality

• Are you of Vietnamese descent?
• Do you hold a long-term visa, work permit, or investment license?
• Are you an expert in a field Vietnam needs?

Step 2: Prepare Your Documents to Apply for Vietnamese Nationality

Depending on your case:

• Passport(s)
• Birth certificate or proof of Vietnamese origin
• Investment certificates
• Work contracts or business licenses
• Residence permit or temporary card
• Language ability

Step 3: Submit the Application to Apply for Vietnamese Nationality

• At Ministry of Justice
• Or through Vietnam’s overseas embassies
• Include request for dual citizenship if applicable

Step 4: Await Verification

• Ministry of Justice processes file
• Ministry of Public Security validates identity and background

Step 5: Receive Decision

• If approved, you would receive an official nationality certificate
• Provincial People’s Committees may hold an official ceremony
• If dual nationality was granted, your foreign citizenship remains intact

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) to Apply for Vietnamese Nationality

Can I keep my foreign citizenship if I become Vietnamese?

Yes. Under Decree 191/2025 on Vietnamese Nationality, dual citizenship is permitted if:

• It does not harm national interests
• The President of Vietnam approves it
• You have significant personal or national contributions

Do I need to speak Vietnamese?

Normally, yes. But if you are:

• A high-level investor
• A scientific or cultural expert
• A returning overseas Vietnamese

…then the requirement may be waived.

How long does the process to Apply for Vietnamese Nationality take?

The review may take:

• Up to 30 days by the Ministry of Justice
• 45 days for security verification
• Extra time for Presidential approval if dual citizenship is involved

Can I apply for Vietnamese nationality from abroad?

Yes. You may apply through Vietnamese embassies and consulates. The decree encourages overseas Vietnamese to reclaim nationality.

From Residency to Belonging

Vietnam is no longer just a destination for short-term opportunity. It is building a future of shared citizenship.

With Decree 191/2025 on Vietnamese Nationality, the door is open for those ready to contribute, return, and stay and apply for Vietnamese nationality.

Whether you are a business leader, a second-generation Vietnamese abroad, or a global expert drawn to Vietnam’s growth, this is your moment.

Now, Vietnam is not just welcoming tourists. 

Vietnam is welcoming you, the citizens.

About ANT Lawyers, a Law Firm in Vietnam

We help clients overcome cultural barriers and achieve their strategic and financial outcomes, while ensuring the best interest rate protection, risk mitigation and regulatory compliance. ANT lawyers has lawyers in Ho Chi Minh city, Hanoi,  and Danang, and will help customers in doing business in Vietnam.

Source: https://antlawyers.vn/update/apply-for-vietnamese-nationality-steps.html

8 Key Updates in the Vietnam Nationality Law 2025 Every Overseas Vietnamese Should Know

  Vietnam has revised its nationality law.

On June 24, 2025, the National Assembly passed key updates in the Vietnam Nationality Law that affect how overseas Vietnamese can apply for, confirm, or retain Vietnamese nationality. The revised Vietnam Nationality Law 2025, effective from July 1, 2025, simplifies many procedures while tightening rules in specific areas.

This guide outlines the eight most important changes in Vietnam Nationality Law, provides a step-by-step checklist, answers frequently asked questions, and explains why these changes are happening now.

8 Key Updates in the Vietnam Nationality Law 2025 Every Overseas Vietnamese Should Know

Why Reform Vietnam Nationality Law, and Why Now?

The timing of this legal reform of Vietnam Nationality Law is not accidental. Behind the legislative language lies a deeper reality that Vietnam is entering a new phase in its nation building journey. 

For decades, overseas Vietnamese, although sentimentally embraced as part of the greater Vietnamese family, their legal rights have often been falling in the gap.

The new law seeks to fix that gap which is in line with the policy of the country to look forward (not back).

But beyond cultural reconnection, there are three structural reasons this change of Vietnam Nationality Law became urgent:

1. Vietnam’s economic transition depends on global engagement: To move from manufacturing to innovation, Vietnam needs more than capital, it needs ideas, networks, and know-how. Overseas Vietnamese often sit at that intersection. The Vietnam Nationality Law now sees them not only as returnees but as strategic partners.
2. Demographic pressure is rising: Vietnam’s aging population and tightening labor supply make overseas Vietnamese a valuable resource. The revised Vietnam Nationality Law provides a legal foundation for those who wish to return, not just to retire, but to teach, build, and lead.
3. Geopolitical positioning: In a region shaped by global competition, Vietnam is reinforcing its identity and reach. By clarifying who belongs and under what terms under the revised Vietnam Nationality Law, the country strengthens internal unity and external legitimacy.

Eight Key Legal Updates on Vietnam Nationality Law

Faster pathway for contributors

The Vietnam Nationality Law now offers a simplified naturalisation route for individuals contributing to Vietnam through professional skills or achievements. The five-year residency and financial sufficiency conditions are waived if contributions to national development can be shown.

Dual nationality permitted in special cases

While dual nationality is generally not allowed, the law introduces an exception. If your foreign nationality is considered beneficial to Vietnam, you may.

Single nationality for public service

Those appointed or elected to government, judicial, or military positions must renounce other nationalities and reside in Vietnam full-time.

Easier proof of Vietnamese origin

The Vietnam Nationality Law allows broader documentation to verify Vietnamese ancestry. Family records, community letters, and other evidence may now support applications. This is especially helpful for those without access to older birth certificates in Vietnam or household records.

Name flexibility

Applicants can combine Vietnamese and foreign names on official documents, providing more personal and professional continuity.

Citizenship revocation without appeal

The Vietnam Nationality Law permits nationality to be revoked if obtained by fraud or if national security is compromised. These decisions are final and not subject to judicial review.

Presumed nationality for renounced citizens

Overseas Vietnamese who never officially renounced their nationality are still considered Vietnamese citizens. Confirmation can be obtained via embassies abroad.

Step-by-Step Guide Applying Vietnamese Nationality or Confirming Vietnamese Nationality

Step 1: Check your status

• Have you ever held Vietnamese nationality?
• Did you formally renounce it?
• Are you of Vietnamese descent?

Step 2: Collect your documents

• Proof of ancestry (family book, birth certificate, school records, or community letters)
• Valid passport(s)
• Criminal record card

Step 3: Choose the right pathway

• Confirmation of Vietnamese origin (if never formally renounced)
• Application for nationality (if applying anew)
• Re-acquisition of nationality (if previously renounced)

Step 4: Submit your application

• Via the Vietnamese embassy abroad or in Vietnam at the Ministry of Justice
• Prepare translations and notarised copies where required

Step 5: Wait for decision

• Target: 2-3 weeks once complete dossier is accepted

Step 6: Complete post-approval steps

• ID card or citizen registration
• Update other records and legal documents

Helpful resources:

• Birth Certificate Application
• Criminal Record Guide

FAQs on Applying Vietnamese Nationality or Confirming Vietnamese Nationality

Q1: I have Vietnamese parents but no birth certificate. Can I apply?

Yes. The Vietnam Nationality Law now allows other forms of proof including school records, community letters, or language certificates.

Q2: How do I apply for a criminal record card in Vietnam?

You can apply through the Department of Justice or request assistance via legal representatives.

Q3: Can I keep my foreign passport if I naturalise?

Only with written approval in cases of special contribution to national interests.

Q4: What if I was born in Vietnam but now hold another nationality?

You may still be a Vietnamese citizen unless you formally renounced your nationality. Embassy confirmation is recommended.

Q5: What happens if I submit incorrect documents?

Under the Vietnam Nationality Law, providing false documents may lead to cancellation of citizenship without appeal.

Conclusions

The Vietnam Nationality Law 2025 is not just a legal tool. It is a statement of intent. Vietnam is signaling to overseas Vietnamese that now is the time to reconnect, not only culturally but also legally and structurally.

By removing barriers and clarifying conditions, the government invites overseas Vietnamese to be part of its next chapter for the country that want to look forward (not back).

About ANT Lawyers, a Law Firm in Vietnam

We help clients overcome cultural barriers and achieve their strategic and financial outcomes, while ensuring the best interest rate protection, risk mitigation and regulatory compliance. ANT lawyers has lawyers in Ho Chi Minh city, Hanoi,  and Danang, and will help customers in doing business in Vietnam.

Source: https://antlawyers.vn/nationality/update-vietnam-nationality-law-2025.html