Naturalization (Law No. 79/2025/QH15)

Eligibility is divided into two main tracks: the standard track for general residents and the exempted track for those with specific ties to Vietnam.

1. Standard Naturalization

To qualify under the general category, you must meet the following five criteria:

• Civil Capacity: You must have full civil act capacity (be of sound mind and legal age) under Vietnamese law.
• Legal Compliance: You must demonstrate a history of abiding by the Constitution and laws of Vietnam, and show respect for Vietnamese traditions and customs.
• Language Proficiency: You must know enough Vietnamese to integrate into the community. This is defined as the ability to communicate in Vietnamese for daily life and work.
• Residency: You must have resided in Vietnam for at least 5 years at the time of application. Crucially, this residency must be documented by a Permanent Residence Card (PRC).
• Financial Ability: You must prove you can support yourself financially through income, assets, or a guarantee from a sponsor.

2. Exempted Categories

You are exempt from the language, 5-year residency, and financial ability requirements if you fall into one of these groups:

• Spouses: You are married to a Vietnamese citizen.
• Direct Relatives: You are the biological parent or child of a Vietnamese citizen.
• Special Merit: You have made significant contributions to Vietnam’s national construction or defense.
• National Interest: Your naturalization is deemed beneficial to the State (e.g., you are a high-tech expert, scientist, or significant investor).

3. The Dual Nationality Rule

Under the 2025 law, the general rule remains that you must renounce your foreign nationality to become Vietnamese. However, the President of Vietnam may grant permission for you to retain your original citizenship if you fall under the Exempted Categories listed above, provided that holding dual nationality does not harm Vietnam's national interests.