How to Get a Long-Term Residency Option in Southeast Asia

Posted on: Jun 12, 2025 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

How to Get a Long-Term Residency Option in Southeast Asia

While Southeast Asia has become a hotspot for digital nomads, retirees, and investors, Vietnam and Thailand are leading with enticing 10-year visa programs. Long-term visa programs are designed for wealthy individuals, well-qualified professionals, and those seeking to work remotely from home. Vietnam’s new visa rules and Thailand’s LTR Visa will help countries boost their economies by attracting foreign residents and investments. They offer numerous opportunities for individuals seeking to settle.

However, you should ensure that you purchase travel insurance online to stay protected against unexpected conditions, such as medical emergencies arising from critical illness or accident, lost luggage, flight cancellations, and more. When purchasing a policy, opt for an international travel insurance company to ensure a seamless claim settlement process.

Why South Asian Countries Are a Great Place to Visit?

From the overwhelming natural beauty of Vietnam, the vibrant fusion of culture and ethnicity, and sun-kissed beaches in Indonesia, South Asia offers an incredible experience. It has something for every kind of traveller that can suit your preferences. If you are dreaming of an affordable luxury, South Asian countries like Indonesia will also give it to you.

Visitors with limited budgets or backpackers often find their ideal destinations in countries like the Philippines, Cambodia, and Vietnam. Conversely, countries like Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore are known for their luxurious offerings. Here, you can explore numerous casinos, opulent hotels, and fascinating nightlife options you have never imagined. If you are planning to travel abroad, explore Southeast Asia’s visa-friendly countries for indian tourists.

Let’s dig deeper into the following article to learn which South Asian countries are attracting foreign travellers with their 10-year visa. Investors, professionals, and businesspeople are exploring new opportunities for progress and growth in these countries due to their stable economic base.

Vietnam’s 10-Year Golden Visa Program

Currently, the Vietnamese government needs global investment and talent to boost the country’s economy. In the first quarter of 2025, approximately 7.67 million foreigners visited Vietnam, representing a sharp increase of around 24%. The tourism sector aims to welcome between 22 and 23 million international travellers every year. With the 10-year Golden Visa program, the country will attract the wealthiest individuals to relocate and invest in business ventures.

Key Features of the Golden Visa Program

You do not need to worry about frequent renewals with regular visas. This is because the Golden Visa Program has eliminated its need. Instead, it allows you to stay between 5 and 10 years without annual renewals. In special cases, the residency period can be extended. It is worth noting that the new golden visa eliminates the need to establish a new business in the country.

Further, the procedure is seamless if you plan to visit with your loved ones. Your family members can obtain dependable visas and access the country’s healthcare and educational systems in a hassle-free manner.

Different Visa Categories You Should Know About

Here’s a breakdown of the different 10-year golden visas that you should know about:

1. Investor Visa

Especially designed for entrepreneurs and investors, the investor visa offers the option to stay for up to 10 years. During your stay, if the investment is sustained for five years, you may have the opportunity to become a permanent resident.

2. Talent Visa

Are you a highly skilled individual looking to work in fast-growing sectors such as IT, healthcare, and others? A five-year talent visa is available with a simple procedure for such candidates.

3. Golden Visa for Long-Term Retirees and Tourists

Are you one of those seeking long-term residency options to make retirement age more comfortable? You will be eligible to apply for a 10-year golden visa. That way, Vietnam has opened up its long-term residential advantages for passive investors, digital nomads, and retirees.

Step-by-Step Application Procedure to Get the New 10-Year Visa in Vietnam

Typically, the entire application process for obtaining a new 10-year visa in Vietnam will be conducted online. The government has eliminated the need to visit the embassy for visa approval. Here’s a checklist of documents that you should know:

1. A valid passport

2. Proof of income

3. Proof of investment

4. Health insurance

5. A clear background check

Thailand’s 10-Year Visa for Long-Term Residents

With a 10-year Long-Term Resident Visa, Thailand has been an alluring destination for global investors and talent. Presently, the country is home to multinational corporations and some of the world's most-visited tourist hotspots. However, the government started the program in 2022 to accelerate post-pandemic growth by welcoming more investors and entrepreneurs.

Recently, Thailand has revamped its 10-year visa rules to attract investors, skilled professionals, and high-potential foreigners. Now, unlimited dependents can benefit from the long-term resident visa program with a primary applicant. The government’s initiative is to create a more inclusive environment for foreigners.

Key Features of Thailand’s LTR Visa Program

Check out the following pointers to know the key features of the country’s LTR visa program:

1. If you maintain your qualifications, the five-year visa will be extended for an additional five years.

2. Eligible dependents can take advantage of this program, regardless of the number of dependents.

3. Applicants can avail themselves of tax exemption for overseas income.

4. Allows visa holders to enter and exit the country without requiring a permit.

Visa Categories

Take a look at the following discussion to learn about the different types of LTR visa programs:

1. Wealthy Global Citizens

The applicant must have a minimum of USD 1 million in assets.

2. Wealthy Pensioners

Retirees aged 50 and above should have a stable source of income.

3. Work from Thailand Professionals

Remote workers are working for reputable overseas companies.

4. Highly Skilled Professionals

Professionals working in targeted countries, research centres, or higher education institutions.

Step-by-Step Application Procedure to Get a 10-Year LTR Visa in Thailand

Follow the following steps to complete the online visa procedure:

1. Visit the official LTR website and create a separate account.

2. Upload essential documents, such as a bank statement, investment proof, or employment evidence.

3. The Thailand BOI will initiate the visa approval process.

Conclusion

In summary, Vietnam and Thailand are attracting global talent and investors with their forward-thinking approach. With benefits such as long-term stays in the country without frequent renewals, the 10-year visa program will help foster international tourism and the economy.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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