[Vietnam] Vietnam Opens Door to Dual Citizenship

Author - Sally Nguyen

Exciting legal developments from Vietnam: As of July 1, 2025, amendments to the Law on Vietnamese Nationality officially took effect, introducing sweeping reforms in how the country treats dual citizenship, special naturalization and nationality retention with a strong focus on facilitating engagement from the overseas Vietnamese community. These legislative changes reflect Vietnam’s broader strategic direction under Resolution 57-NQ/TW of the Politburo, which was designed to attract and leverage global Vietnamese talent, particularly in science, technology, education, and investment.

So, who are dual citizenship Vietnamese?

They are individuals who simultaneously hold Vietnamese nationality and the citizenship of another country. Dual citizenship Vietnamese include overseas Vietnamese, children of mixed-nationality parents and foreign nationals who are naturalized Vietnamese citizens under certain special circumstances.

What's significantly changing under the amended Law?

Previously, dual citizenship was restricted. Vietnam allowed it only in exceptional cases approved by the country President. The new legal has broadened the scope, now permitting individuals of Vietnamese origin who are investors, scientists and experts to retain their foreign nationality when applying for Vietnamese citizenship.

Notably, the amendments eliminate the Vietnamese language proficiency and five-year minimum residency requirements, substantially lowering the threshold for individuals seeking to obtain Vietnamese nationality. In addition, the recognition of hybrid names permits applicants to combine Vietnamese and foreign names in naturalization and nationality restoration records.

Why this matters?

The amendments reflect a significant policy shift by formally recognizing the global nature of Vietnamese identity and the evolving realities of international migration. It reduces longstanding legal and procedural barriers that have limited the ability of overseas Vietnamese to retain or restore their nationality, thereby facilitating broader participation in Vietnam’s legal and economic systems. By expanding eligibility and simplifying procedures, the law encourages more active engagement from Vietnamese citizens living overseas in key areas such as investment, technology transfer, education, and national innovation. At the same time, it maintains a measured balance between openness and the protection of national sovereignty, incorporating safeguards for roles related to public service and national security.

Notable practical implications for corporate clients and foreign investors

The recognition of dual nationality allows Vietnamese-origin individuals to invest, establish enterprises, and acquire land in Vietnam with fewer legal restrictions.

About Author

Sally serves as the Managing Partner of TWLV and is based in Ho Chi Minh City. With over 15 years of experience, Sally has worked with prestigious institutions including a leading foreign bank, as well as international firms. She specializes in M&A, banking, inbound investments, corporate & commercial matters, labor issues, and dispute resolution.

TWL Law Group is prepared to offer assistance in addressing inquiries and concerns related to Vietnam Citizenship. Stay tuned for our upcoming briefing on compliance guidance related to the amended Law.