The newly passed Law on the Digital Technology Industry, effective January 1, 2026, will grant preferential policies to Vietnam’s high-quality digital workforce.

These policies include personal income tax exemptions, visa and residency support, training and research assistance, and expedited appointments to government leadership roles without the usual tenure or planning requirements.

A production line of VinSmart factory at Hanoi's Hoa Lac Hi-tech Park. Photo: Vingroup

Nguyen Khac Lich, Director General of the Authority of ICT Industry under the Ministry of Science and Technology, highlighted these breakthroughs at a July 7 press conference in Hanoi where five new laws related to science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation were announced.

“The Law on the Digital Technology Industry provides a pioneering legal framework for the development of Vietnam’s digital industry,” he said, noting that the new law will help the country compete for global tech talent.

Under the law, high-quality digital technology professionals will benefit from competitive salaries and bonuses, housing and living support, and national-level recognition and rewards.

Vietnamese citizens employed by digital technology enterprises or national digital technology hubs will also be eligible for state-funded education and training programs.

Notably, foreign experts in the sector will be granted five-year temporary residence cards renewable under Vietnamese law. Their spouses and children under 18 will receive similar support.

Qualified professionals will enjoy a five-year exemption from personal income tax.

To attract talent, the law permits qualified tech professionals to assume public office without taking exams. They can also be promoted quickly to leadership positions without meeting requirements such as seniority or being on leadership staff planning lists.

Public employees returning from the private sector may retain or exceed their previous rank, salary, and benefits in comparable roles.

"These incentives are unprecedented and designed to help Vietnam build a world-class digital talent pool and accelerate the growth of the digital technology industry," Lich said.

The Ministry of Science and Technology is drafting guidelines for the law's effective enforcement once it takes effect.