Vietnam approves dual citizenship. But not for all
Vietnam has approved amendments to its nationality law, allowing both Vietnamese citizens living abroad and foreigners to hold dual citizenship.
Immigrant Invest has reviewed the new law and believes it’s designed to bring in talented professionals and help boost the country’s economy.
Chief Development Officer at Immigrant Invest
Vietnam approves dual citizenship. But not for all
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Historically, Vietnam did not recognise dual citizenship. However, since July 1st, 2009, certain exceptions have been made. The country allowed dual citizenship for specific groups, such as overseas Vietnamese and individuals who have made significant contributions to the country.
As media report, approximately six million Vietnamese live in 130 countries worldwide, many of whom work for major tech companies.
The government now views attracting overseas Vietnamese and skilled foreigners as crucial for its technological advancement and economic development.
Key changes in the citizenship law in 2025. Recently, Vietnam abolished the requirement to renounce foreign citizenship for those applying for a Vietnamese passport. The country also eliminated language proficiency and minimum residency requirements.
As with most rules, there are exceptions. Government officials, members of the military, and security personnel will usually still be required to hold only Vietnamese citizenship.
Tô Lâm,
General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam
I urge overseas Vietnamese to return to their homeland, reconnect with their roots, support each other, and engage with the people in the country to make Vietnam stronger.
Where Vietnamese can obtain second citizenship
United States. Home to the largest overseas Vietnamese community — over 2.3 million people — the US sees a high naturalisation rate. Around 78% of eligible Vietnamese immigrants become US citizens.
France. With historic ties to Vietnam, France has long welcomed Vietnamese nationals. By 1999, about 75% had obtained French citizenship.
Australia. Since the 1970s, Australia has been a popular destination for Vietnamese migrants. Today, over 330,000 people of Vietnamese origin live there, many of whom have become citizens.
Recent changes in Vietnamese nationality law now make it easier for citizens to hold dual citizenship, including with an EU country.
Vietnam has allowed applicants with Vietnamese heritage or strong ties to the country to retain their Vietnamese nationality when gaining a second one. At the same time, several EU countries offer naturalisation pathways after investment-based residency programmes, such as the Golden Visas.
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