Does Vietnam Allow Dual Citizenship?

Yes, Vietnam allows dual citizenship as of July 1, 2025. The National Assembly passed Law No. 79/2025/QH15 on June 24, 2025, amending the Law on Vietnamese Nationality (Law No. 24/2008/QH12), enabling eligible individuals to retain foreign nationality when acquiring or restoring Vietnamese citizenship.

According to Article 1.6 of Law No. 79/2025/QH15, applicants may retain foreign nationality upon naturalization in Vietnam if they meet specific conditions and receive Presidential approval. Eligible categories include: persons with Vietnamese spouses/children/parents/grandparents, individuals with meritorious contributions to national construction and defense, persons whose naturalization benefits Vietnam, and minors applying with parents.

The dual citizenship must comply with the foreign country’s laws and must not undermine Vietnam’s national security, interests, social order, or public safety. Those not meeting these criteria must renounce foreign citizenship to become Vietnamese, as stated in traditional provisions of the nationality law.

This reform marks Vietnam’s most significant nationality policy change in nearly 40 years, driven by economic modernization goals. According to government statistics, approximately 6 million Vietnamese live in over 130 countries and territories, with 80% residing in developed countries—representing valuable human capital for national development.

When Did Vietnam Start Allowing Dual Citizenship?

Vietnam officially expanded dual citizenship eligibility on July 1, 2025, when Law No. 79/2025/QH15 took effect. The National Assembly passed this law on June 24, 2025, during its 9th Session.

Article 1 of Law No. 79/2025/QH15 amends and supplements provisions of the Law on Vietnamese Nationality (Law No. 24/2008/QH12), previously amended by Law No. 56/2014/QH13. This represents Vietnam’s most comprehensive nationality reform since the original 2008 nationality law framework.

Timeline of Vietnam’s dual citizenship policy:

• Before July 1, 2009: Vietnam maintained strict single nationality requirements. Article 4 of Law No. 24/2008/QH12 stated: “The State of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam recognizes that Vietnamese citizens have only one nationality, which is Vietnamese nationality, unless otherwise provided for by this Law.” Foreign nationals acquiring Vietnamese citizenship were required to renounce original nationality under Clause 3, Article 19.
• July 1, 2009: First exception introduced. Clause 2, Article 13 of Law No. 24/2008/QH12 allowed Vietnamese citizens who retained Vietnamese nationality before this date to maintain dual status if they acquired foreign citizenship afterward.
• 2014: Law No. 56/2014/QH13 amended certain provisions, though the framework remained restrictive.
• June 24, 2025: The National Assembly passed Law No. 79/2025/QH15 during the 9th Session of the 15th National Assembly, amending multiple articles of the nationality law.
• July 1, 2025: Law No. 79/2025/QH15 officially took effect. According to the law’s final provisions, all applications for naturalization, restoration, or renunciation submitted before this date are processed under the new law’s provisions.

Legal framework expansion:

Article 1.6 of Law No. 79/2025/QH15 introduces the most significant change: applicants for Vietnamese nationality may retain foreign nationality if they:

• Are spouses, biological children, or biological parents of Vietnamese citizens
• Have biological parents or paternal/maternal grandparents who are Vietnamese citizens
• Have made meritorious contributions to national construction and defense
• Whose naturalization is deemed beneficial to Vietnam
• Are minors applying for Vietnamese citizenship together with parents

All cases require Presidential approval. The retention must comply with relevant foreign country laws and must not harm Vietnam’s national security, interests, social order, or public safety.

Strategic rationale:

The reform aligns with Resolution 57-NQ/TW (December 2024 by the Communist Party Central Committee), which establishes Vietnam’s vision to develop science and technology. The resolution creates “special mechanisms” to attract skilled Vietnamese expatriates and foreigners, including nationality policy adjustments, property ownership rights, competitive salaries, and improved work environments.

According to the State Committee on Overseas Vietnamese Affairs, approximately 6 million Vietnamese live in over 130 countries and territories, with 80% residing in developed countries. Many possess expertise in technology, innovation, and finance critical to Vietnam’s economic goals of 8% growth in 2025 and double-digit growth targeting high-income status by 2045.

Who Qualifies for Dual Citizenship in Vietnam?

Five primary categories qualify for dual citizenship under Article 1.6 of Law No. 79/2025/QH15, all requiring Presidential approval.

1. Individuals with Vietnamese Family Ties

According to Clause 2(a), Article 19 as amended by Law No. 79/2025/QH15, foreign nationals whose spouses or biological children are Vietnamese citizens may retain foreign nationality when acquiring Vietnamese citizenship.

These applicants receive exemptions from:

• Vietnamese language proficiency requirements (Clause 2(a), Article 19)
• 5-year minimum residency requirement
• Financial self-sufficiency demonstration

2. Persons of Vietnamese Descent

Article 1.5 amending Article 19 adds provisions for individuals whose biological parents or paternal/maternal grandparents are Vietnamese citizens. The 2025 amendments specifically added grandparents to eligibility criteria—previously only parents qualified.

Exemptions granted:

• Vietnamese language skills (Clause 2, Article 19)
• Residency duration requirements
• Physical residence in Vietnam
• Financial capacity demonstration

3. Overseas Vietnamese (Việt Kiều)

• Clause 2, Article 13 of Law No. 24/2008/QH12 (maintained in 2025 amendments) states: Vietnamese citizens residing overseas who retained Vietnamese nationality as of July 1, 2009, continue to be recognized as Vietnamese citizens even after acquiring foreign nationality.
• Article 23.1 of Law No. 79/2025/QH15 introduces groundbreaking provisions: any individual who previously lost Vietnamese nationality can now submit applications for restoration and have cases reviewed—regardless of the reason for loss. Previously, strict conditions applied under the 2008 law.

4. Persons with Special Contributions

According to Clause 2(b), Article 19 as amended, individuals with meritorious contributions to national construction and defense qualify for exemptions and may retain foreign nationality.

Decree No. 191/2025/NĐ-CP (effective July 1, 2025) details implementation, specifying that exceptional talents in the following fields qualify:

• Science, technology, innovation, digital transformation
• Economics, law, culture, arts, sports, education
• Other fields demonstrating lasting impact on Vietnam’s development

Recognition can be granted through:

• International awards, orders, and medals
• Verification by relevant ministries confirming contributions
• Business investments verified by ministerial-level agencies as contributing positively and sustainably to national development

5. Minors Applying with Parents

Article 1.5 amending Article 19 includes provisions for minors applying for Vietnamese citizenship together with parents. Children born to one Vietnamese parent and one foreign parent acquire Vietnamese citizenship if both parents agree, according to the 2025 Law’s provisions protecting children’s citizenship rights.

Critical Requirements for ALL Categories:

According to Article 1.6 of Law No. 79/2025/QH15, dual citizenship requires:

• Presidential approval (mandatory for all cases)
• Compliance with foreign country’s laws permitting dual citizenship
• Must not undermine Vietnam’s national security, interests, social order, or public safety ✓ Cannot infringe upon lawful rights and interests of Vietnamese entities and individuals
• Written proof that dual nationality is permitted under home country laws

Clause 5, Article 23 (as amended) states: If applicants cannot provide confirmation that the foreign country permits dual citizenship, the Ministry of Justice requires renunciation of foreign citizenship within 9 months, or faces application rejection. This 9-month period is excluded from official processing timeframes.

Does Vietnam Allow Dual Citizenship with the US, UK, and Canada?

Yes, Vietnam allows dual citizenship with the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada, provided applicants meet Vietnam’s eligibility criteria under Law No. 79/2025/QH15 and receive Presidential approval. These countries permit their citizens to hold multiple nationalities without requiring renunciation.

Legal framework compatibility:

Article 1.6 requires that dual citizenship retention “complies with laws of the relevant foreign countries.” The following countries’ laws permit dual citizenship:

• United States: U.S. law does not require citizens to renounce nationality when acquiring foreign citizenship. Vietnamese-Americans with special contributions or Vietnamese family ties can apply under Vietnam’s revised nationality law.
• United Kingdom: British law permits dual citizenship without restrictions. British nationals married to Vietnamese citizens or with Vietnamese parents/grandparents qualify under Clause 2(a), Article 19 (family ties category).
• Canada: Canadian law recognizes dual citizenship since 1977. Canadian citizens can hold Vietnamese nationality simultaneously without conflict.

Other countries permitting dual citizenship with Vietnam:

• Australia: Permits dual citizenship
• France: Allows dual citizenship
• Most European Union countries: Permit multiple nationalities

Countries restricting dual citizenship:

Applicants from countries prohibiting dual citizenship must choose between nationalities:

• China
• Singapore
• Japan
• Indonesia
• Malaysia
• Most Middle Eastern nations

For these countries, acquiring Vietnamese citizenship requires renouncing original nationality under traditional Article 19, Clause 3 provisions, or vice versa.

Practical considerations for teachers:

For foreign teachers considering work permits in Vietnam, understanding your home country’s dual citizenship policy proves essential. Article 1.6 provisions enable long-term career planning for teachers from dual-citizenship-permitting countries, as citizenship status affects visa and work authorization over extended periods.

Teachers should review Work Permit Eligibility Requirements for Teaching in Vietnam, as citizenship status can impact these procedures.

What Is the Application Process for Dual Citizenship in Vietnam?

The application process takes approximately 4-6 months total, including background verification and Presidential approval. Law No. 79/2025/QH15 significantly reduced processing timelines at administrative levels.

Step 1: Document Preparation

According to Article 20 of Law No. 24/2008/QH12 (as amended) and Decree No. 191/2025/NĐ-CP, applicants must prepare:

Required documents for all applicants:

• Application form for naturalization/restoration (official format)
• Valid foreign passport or identity documents
• Criminal record certificate from foreign authority (issued within 90 days prior to submission)
• Four recent photographs (taken within 6 months)
• Documents in foreign languages must have certified Vietnamese translations

Additional documents for family ties category:

• Proof of relationship: marriage certificate, birth certificate, family records
• Documents proving Vietnamese nationality of spouse/parent/grandparent

Additional documents for special contributions category:

• Certification of meritorious service verified by competent authorities
• Documentation of national interest contributions
• International awards, orders, medals (if applicable)

Critical for dual citizenship applicants:

• Written proof that home country permits dual nationality
• Signed statement confirming no misuse of foreign nationality against Vietnam’s interests

Documents proving Vietnamese descent (for overseas Vietnamese):

• Birth certificates
• Household registration records
• Community letters
• Language certificates

Step 2: Application Submission

Article 1.7 of Law No. 79/2025/QH15 introduces new submission options:

• Option 1 – Department of Justice (for Vietnam residents): Submit to the provincial-level Department of Justice (Sở Tư pháp) where permanently residing in Vietnam.
• Option 2 – Vietnamese diplomatic missions abroad (for overseas applicants): Submit to Vietnamese embassies/consulates abroad if residing overseas.

According to Article 1.7, within 20 days of receiving complete applications, diplomatic missions must:

• Verify submitted documents
• Forward application with recommendations to Ministry of Justice
• Notify Ministry of Foreign Affairs to coordinate nationality state management

Electronic submissions accepted through VNeID app and National Public Service Portal.

Step 3: Background Verification and Administrative Processing

Article 1.7 (amending Article 21) establishes expedited timelines:

• Within 5 working days (reduced from 10 days): Department of Justice finalizes dossier and submits to Chairman of Provincial People’s Committee after receiving verification results.
• Within 5 working days (reduced from 10 days): Chairman of Provincial People’s Committee reviews, concludes, and submits opinion to Ministry of Justice.
• Within 30 days: Provincial-level Public Security Department conducts background verification and responds regarding applicant’s personal background (upon Department of Justice request).
• Within 20 days: Ministry of Justice reviews complete files after receiving proposals from Provincial People’s Committee Chairmen.

Step 4: Foreign Citizenship Renunciation Period (if applicable)

If applicants cannot prove foreign country permits dual citizenship, Clause 5, Article 23 states: Applicants have 9 months to submit documents proving foreign citizenship renunciation. This period is excluded from processing timeframes.

Step 5: Presidential Approval

For dual citizenship cases, Ministry of Justice prepares recommendations for Presidential approval as required by Article 1.6. The President reviews and decides within 30 days of receiving proposals. The President’s decision is final and includes specific conditions for retaining foreign nationality.

Step 6: Hybrid Name Option (if applicable)

Clause 4, Article 19 (as amended) and Clause 5, Article 23 allow applicants requesting dual citizenship to adopt hybrid names combining Vietnamese and foreign names. This must be clearly stated in the Presidential decision approving nationality.

Step 7: Decision Issuance and Post-Naturalization Procedures

Upon approval:

• Ministry of Justice publishes decision on official website
• Provincial People’s Committee organizes ceremony presenting decision
• Ministry notifies Ministry of Public Security to instruct competent authorities to:
  • Register residence
  • Issue Vietnamese passport
  • Issue citizen ID card
  • Issue electronic ID card

Processing timeline summary:

Stage	Timeline	Authority
Background verification	30 days	Provincial Public Security
Department of Justice processing	5 working days	Provincial Justice Department
Provincial Committee review	5 working days	Provincial People’s Committee Chairman
Ministry of Justice review	20 days	Ministry of Justice
Presidential decision	30 days	President of Vietnam
Total estimated time	4-6 months	Multiple agencies

Note: Foreign citizenship renunciation period (9 months) excluded from timeline if applicable.

Are There Any Restrictions on Dual Citizens in Vietnam?

Yes, Vietnam imposes significant restrictions on certain professional categories. Clause 1, Article 1 of Law No. 79/2025/QH15 (amending Article 5) establishes strict requirements for security-sensitive positions.

Positions requiring exclusive Vietnamese nationality:

1. Leadership and Government Positions

According to Clause 1, Article 5 (as amended): Individuals elected, appointed, or designated to the following positions must hold only Vietnamese nationality and reside in Vietnam full-time:

• Communist Party leadership roles
• Government officials (all levels)
• Judicial positions (judges, prosecutors)
• Socio-political organization leaders

2. Security-Sensitive Roles

Clause 1, Article 5 specifically mandates exclusive Vietnamese nationality for:

• Armed forces (military personnel, all ranks)
• Cryptography specialists and national security positions
• Police and security forces
• Intelligence and counterintelligence personnel

3. Civil Servants and Public Employees

Most civil servants and public employees must hold only Vietnamese nationality and reside in Vietnam, unless:

• Dual nationality serves national interests, AND
• Does not compromise Vietnam’s sovereignty

Clause 1, Article 5 states: “Other civil servants and public employees must also hold only Vietnamese nationality and reside in Vietnam unless dual nationality serves national interests and does not compromise Vietnam’s sovereignty.”

State agencies make case-by-case decisions on recruiting dual citizens under these circumstances.

Rights permitted for approved dual citizens:

Dual citizens with proper authorization under Article 1.6 enjoy:

• Property ownership rights (residential and commercial real estate)
• Business establishment and investment in Vietnam
• Employment in private sector without work permits ✓ Education access at public schools with domestic tuition rates
• Healthcare system access with subsidized rates
• Inheritance rights equivalent to Vietnamese citizens
• Family sponsorship for immigration purposes

Travel documentation requirements:

According to immigration regulations, dual citizens must use consistent documentation for Vietnam entry/exit:

• Entering with Vietnamese passport → Must exit with Vietnamese passport
• Entering with foreign passport → Must exit with foreign passport and valid visa/exemption

Using different passports for entry versus exit constitutes a violation of Vietnamese immigration law, potentially resulting in administrative penalties.

Consequences of unauthorized dual citizenship:

Holding dual citizenship without official recognition through proper legal channels can result in:

• Loss of Vietnamese citizenship if foreign nationality was acquired voluntarily without following procedures under Article 1.6
• Legal complications regarding property rights and inheritance
• Administrative penalties for immigration violations
• Deportation in cases of serious violations

Vietnamese citizenship may be revoked if acquired through fraud or if individuals commit acts harmful to national security, though citizens have the right to appeal with supporting evidence.

Can I Lose My Vietnamese Citizenship If I Acquire Foreign Nationality?

Voluntary acquisition of foreign citizenship may result in loss of Vietnamese nationality under certain circumstances, but Law No. 79/2025/QH15 significantly changes this framework.

When Vietnamese citizenship is involuntarily lost:

Traditional provisions specify involuntary loss occurs when:

• Persons living abroad engage in acts seriously damaging Vietnam’s interests
• Acquiring foreign citizenship through fraudulent means or concealment of information
• Failing to disclose dual citizenship status when legally required

When Vietnamese citizenship is retained:

According to Clause 2, Article 13 of Law No. 24/2008/QH12: Vietnamese citizens who retained Vietnamese nationality before July 1, 2009, and acquired foreign citizenship after this date continue to be recognized as Vietnamese citizens.

You retain Vietnamese citizenship if:

• Your acquisition of foreign nationality was reported and you did not formally apply for renunciation
• You fall into eligible categories for dual citizenship under Article 1.6 (family ties, special contributions, etc.)
• You obtained official permission through dual citizenship application under Law No. 79/2025/QH15

Critical distinction: Simply acquiring foreign citizenship does not automatically terminate Vietnamese nationality if you fall into protected categories established under the nationality law.

Voluntary renunciation process:

Vietnamese citizens may voluntarily renounce citizenship for legitimate reasons, but traditional provisions state renunciation is not allowed if it affects national security.

The following individuals cannot renounce Vietnamese citizenship:

• Persons in military service
• Individuals with unpaid taxes or financial obligations to the state
• Persons under prosecution or serving criminal sentences
• Those whose renunciation would harm national security interests

Renunciation procedures must be completed in Vietnam through the Department of Justice, requiring:

• Application for renunciation with justification
• Proof of acquiring or intending to acquire foreign citizenship
• Evidence of settlement of all financial obligations
• Clearance from relevant government agencies

Restoration of lost citizenship:

Article 23.1 of Law No. 79/2025/QH15 introduces groundbreaking provisions: Any individual who previously lost Vietnamese nationality can now apply for restoration, regardless of the reason for loss.

Previously, Article 23 of Law No. 24/2008/QH12 required strict conditions for restoration. The 2025 amendments remove these barriers—all applications are now reviewed.

Restoration applicants must:

• Resume former Vietnamese name (or opt for hybrid name under Clause 5, Article 23 if retaining foreign nationality)
• Meet eligibility criteria for dual citizenship if seeking to maintain foreign nationality under Article 1.6
• Demonstrate no acts harmful to Vietnam’s interests during period of lost citizenship

Special protections for children:

The 2025 Law provides enhanced protections for children’s citizenship rights:

• When parents renounce citizenship: Minors living with parents automatically acquire their parents’ new citizenship, unless parents specifically request exemption to allow children to retain Vietnamese citizenship.
• Vietnamese children adopted by foreigners: According to Article 37 of Law No. 24/2008/QH12 (maintained in 2025): “A child who is a Vietnamese citizen and adopted by a foreigner will retain his/her Vietnamese nationality.”
• Children born to mixed-nationality parents: May hold dual citizenship until age 18, provided conditions under Article 1.6 are met.

For foreign teachers working in Vietnam long-term and planning families, understanding these provisions proves essential for children’s legal status and educational opportunities. Teachers should also review requirements for Police Clearance Certificates in Vietnam, as criminal record checks are mandatory for citizenship applications under Article 20 document requirements.

What Are the Benefits of Holding Dual Citizenship in Vietnam?

Dual citizenship provides substantial economic, legal, and practical advantages under Law No. 79/2025/QH15 provisions, particularly for overseas Vietnamese, foreign investors, and international professionals.

Economic and business benefits:

1. Property ownership rights

Dual citizens enjoy full Vietnamese property rights unavailable to foreigners:

• Unlimited land-use rights for residential and commercial properties (no 50-year foreign ownership limits)
• No restrictions on property location or quantity
• Full inheritance rights without foreign ownership limitations
• Ability to own agricultural land and conduct farming businesses
• Complete condominium and apartment ownership without foreign ownership quotas

2. Business and investment advantages

• Establish 100% Vietnamese-owned companies under the Law on Enterprises (sole proprietorships, limited liability companies, joint-stock companies)
• No foreign investment restrictions or licensing requirements
• Access to domestic business opportunities unavailable to foreign investors
• Simplified banking and credit access with Vietnamese financial institutions
• Lower tax treatment compared to foreign individuals in certain cases

3. Employment flexibility

• No work permit required for employment in Vietnam
• Can work in positions restricted to Vietnamese nationals (except security-sensitive roles under Clause 1, Article 5)
• Eligible for government positions and state-owned enterprise roles (subject to security clearances)
• Full labor law protections as Vietnamese worker

Social and personal benefits:

4. Immigration and travel

• No visa requirements for Vietnam entry with Vietnamese passport
• Unlimited stay duration in Vietnam
• Multiple entry/exit without restrictions
• Simplified family sponsorship for bringing foreign relatives to Vietnam
• Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to countries recognizing Vietnamese passports

5. Healthcare and education

• Access to public healthcare system with subsidized rates
• Eligibility for Vietnamese health insurance and social security programs
• Children attend public schools tuition-free (grades 1-12)
• Eligible for university tuition at domestic rates (significantly lower than international student fees)
• Access to Vietnamese government scholarships for higher education

6. Political and civic rights

Subject to restrictions under Clause 1, Article 5 for security-sensitive positions, dual citizens enjoy:

• Right to vote in local and national elections
• Ability to stand for election to National Assembly and People’s Councils (with limitations)
• Full constitutional protections and legal rights as Vietnamese citizen
• Access to consular assistance from Vietnamese embassies worldwide

Practical advantages for teachers:

For foreign teachers working in Vietnam, dual citizenship under Law No. 79/2025/QH15 offers:

• Simplified employment contracts without work permit renewals
• Long-term career stability in Vietnamese education system
• Ability to open language centers or education businesses as Vietnamese owner
• Retirement planning with option to remain permanently
• Family integration with Vietnamese spouse and children having equal status

Financial benefits:

7. Banking and finance

• Full banking privileges without foreigner restrictions
• Access to long-term loans and mortgages at domestic rates
• Ability to open business bank accounts without foreign investment license
• Stock market trading without restrictions
• Investment options available to Vietnamese citizens

8. Taxation considerations

While dual citizens are subject to Vietnamese tax obligations, benefits include:

• Potential treaty benefits between Vietnam and foreign country of citizenship
• Clearer tax residency status compared to long-term foreign residents
• Ability to claim tax deductions available to Vietnamese citizens

Comparison: Dual citizenship vs. permanent residency

Benefit	Dual Citizenship	Permanent Residency
Property ownership	Unlimited Vietnamese rights	Subject to foreign ownership regulations
Work permit	Not required	Required for most employment
Business establishment	Full Vietnamese ownership rights	Foreign investment restrictions apply
Voting rights	Yes (with restrictions per Article 5)	No
Stay duration	Unlimited	Renewal every 5-10 years
Family sponsorship	Easier under nationality law	More complex procedures
Government employment	Eligible (except sensitive roles)	Generally not eligible
Education costs	Domestic tuition rates	International student rates
Healthcare access	Full public system access	Limited or private only

Frequently Asked Questions About Vietnam Dual Citizenship

Can I apply for Vietnamese citizenship while living abroad?

Yes, you can submit applications through Vietnamese embassies and consulates abroad. Article 1.7 of Law No. 79/2025/QH15 states: “Individuals can now submit applications either to the Department of Justice if residing in Vietnam or to Vietnamese diplomatic missions abroad if residing overseas.”

Within 20 days of receiving complete applications, diplomatic missions must verify documents and forward recommendations to the Ministry of Justice, simultaneously notifying the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to coordinate nationality state management.

How long does the dual citizenship application process take?

Standard applications take 4-6 months total for complete processing including background verification and Presidential approval.

According to Article 1.7 (amending Article 21), processing timelines are:

• Department of Justice completion: 5 working days (reduced from 10 days)
• Provincial People’s Committee review: 5 working days (reduced from 10 days)
• Public Security background verification: 30 days
• Ministry of Justice review: 20 days
• Presidential decision: 30 days

Does acquiring Vietnamese citizenship affect my US/UK/Canadian tax obligations?

Acquiring Vietnamese citizenship does not automatically eliminate foreign tax obligations. The United States, for example, taxes citizens on worldwide income regardless of residence location.

However, Vietnam has double taxation agreements with many countries, allowing you to claim foreign tax credits to avoid paying taxes twice on the same income. Vietnamese citizens must file Vietnamese tax returns if worldwide income exceeds relevant thresholds.

Consult tax professionals familiar with both jurisdictions to understand specific implications based on your circumstances.

Can my children born abroad automatically get Vietnamese citizenship?

Children born to at least one Vietnamese parent typically acquire Vietnamese citizenship, but registration is required. The 2025 Law states: A child born to one Vietnamese parent and one foreign parent acquires Vietnamese citizenship if both parents agree.

For children born abroad, parents should:

• Obtain birth certificate with foreign elements confirming parent-child relationship
• Register birth at Vietnamese embassy/consulate
• Apply for Vietnamese nationality confirmation or passport through procedures in Article 20
• Children can retain foreign citizenship acquired by birth in countries with jus soli (birthright citizenship) if conditions under Article 1.6 are met

Will I need to do military service if I acquire Vietnamese citizenship?

Military service requirements depend on several factors. Vietnamese men aged 18-27 are generally subject to military conscription under national defense laws.

However, exemptions may apply for:

• Those who acquired citizenship after age 27
• Individuals with dual citizenship who fulfilled military obligations in their foreign country
• Persons with medical conditions preventing service
• Those with critical technical expertise needed for national development under Resolution 57-NQ/TW priorities

The Ministry of Defense makes case-by-case decisions for dual citizens regarding military obligations. Consult with competent authorities for specific circumstances.

Can teachers in Vietnam apply for citizenship based on work contributions?

Teachers with exceptional contributions to Vietnam’s education sector may qualify under the “special contributions” category in Clause 2(b), Article 19 (as amended).

According to Decree No. 191/2025/NĐ-CP, teachers may qualify if they:

• Have received Vietnamese government recognition or awards for educational achievements
• Demonstrate significant impact on Vietnamese education development
• Possess expertise in areas prioritized by Resolution 57-NQ/TW (education is specifically mentioned)
• Have trained Vietnamese teachers or developed educational programs with lasting national benefit

The Ministry of Education and Training or other competent authorities must verify these contributions according to decree provisions.

Do I need to renounce my foreign citizenship to become a Vietnamese citizen?

Not necessarily, if you qualify for dual citizenship under Article 1.6 of Law No. 79/2025/QH15. The law allows retention of foreign nationality for eligible categories:

• Family ties (spouse/children/parents/grandparents)
• Special contributions to national development
• Beneficial to Vietnam
• Minors with parents

However, Clause 5, Article 23 requires: You must provide written proof that your home country permits dual citizenship. If this proof cannot be provided within specified timeframes, the Ministry of Justice requires foreign citizenship renunciation within 9 months or rejects the application.

What happens if Vietnam denies my dual citizenship application?

Application denial can occur if you fail to meet eligibility criteria under Article 19 (as amended), cannot prove foreign country allows dual citizenship per Article 1.6 requirements, or have national security concerns.

If denied, you can:

• Appeal the decision by providing additional evidence
• Reapply after addressing deficiencies identified in rejection decision
• Apply for Vietnamese permanent residency as an alternative legal status
• Consult with legal professionals specializing in Vietnamese nationality law

The Ministry of Justice must provide written reasons for denial under administrative procedure law, allowing you to understand specific deficiencies and address them in subsequent applications or appeals.

Vietnam’s July 1, 2025 implementation of Law No. 79/2025/QH15 marks a historic transformation in nationality policy. The National Assembly’s amendments to the Law on Vietnamese Nationality (Law No. 24/2008/QH12) expand dual citizenship eligibility for five primary categories: individuals with Vietnamese family ties, persons of Vietnamese descent, overseas Vietnamese (Việt Kiều), those with special contributions to national development, and minors applying with parents.

All dual citizenship cases require Presidential approval under Article 1.6 and must comply with foreign country laws while not harming Vietnam’s national interests. The reforms eliminate previous barriers—including mandatory 5-year residency, Vietnamese language proficiency, and financial self-sufficiency requirements for qualified applicants under Clause 2, Article 19 (as amended).

Article 1.7 streamlines processing timelines to 5+5 working days at local levels (reduced from 10+10 working days), while introducing overseas submission options through Vietnamese diplomatic missions. For the approximately 6 million Vietnamese living in over 130 countries and territories (with 80% in developed countries according to government statistics), these changes provide unprecedented opportunity to reclaim Vietnamese nationality while maintaining foreign citizenship.

However, significant restrictions remain: Clause 1, Article 5 (as amended) requires government officials, military personnel, cryptography workers, and most civil servants to hold only Vietnamese nationality to protect sovereignty and security. Dual citizens must also demonstrate their foreign country permits dual citizenship per Article 1.6 requirements and cannot hold certain security-sensitive positions.

For foreign teachers and education professionals working in Vietnam, dual citizenship offers substantial benefits including property ownership rights, simplified employment without work permits, business establishment privileges, and long-term residency stability. The application process—though requiring comprehensive documentation per Article 20, criminal record certificates, and background verification taking 4-6 months—is now more accessible with overseas submission options.

As Vietnam pursues 8% economic growth in 2025 and double-digit growth targeting high-income status by 2045 under Resolution 57-NQ/TW, these nationality reforms represent strategic investment in human capital. Whether you’re an overseas Vietnamese seeking to reclaim roots, a foreign professional contributing to Vietnam’s development, or a teacher building a long-term career in Vietnamese education, understanding your eligibility under Law No. 79/2025/QH15 and the application process is essential for maximizing opportunities under Vietnam’s newly expansive dual citizenship framework.

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