Attorney Ken Duong outlines Vietnam's major immigration and legal changes for 2026 that affect tourists, expats, and investors. The video details stricter enforcement of temporary residence registration, which now requires hotels and hosts to report passport details within 24 hours, with the foreigner bearing the risk if this is not done. Overstay fines have increased to $1,520 and can now lead to deportation and permanent re-entry bans. A ban on e-cigarettes and heated tobacco takes effect March 1, with fines for users and venue operators. Alcohol taxes on beer and spirits will rise to 65% in 2026, climbing to 90% by 2031. Work permits are streamlined for short assignments up to 90 days and for tech professionals, though companies must still notify authorities. A new elite visa lane tied to the International Financial Center program in Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang offers qualified investors, experts, and managers a UD1 visa or residence card for up to 10 years, with a path to permanent residence. Vietnam still has no dedicated retirement visa, so long-term stays rely on family, heritage, or investor routes. November 24 becomes a new public holiday.
Key Facts
- Overstay fines increase to $1,520 in 2026
- New elite UD visa takes effect in 2026
- Elite UD1 visa valid for up to 10 years
- Vape ban effective March 1, 2026
- No dedicated retirement visa in Vietnam in 2026
