On September 19, 2025, the Government of Vietnam promulgated Decree No. 249/2025/ND-CP, introducing a comprehensive framework of mechanisms and policies designed to attract high-caliber experts in the fields of science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation. The decree, which became effective upon signing, represents a strategic policy move to strengthen Vietnam’s human capital base as the nation accelerates its transition toward a knowledge-based and digital economy.
1. Scope and Eligible Beneficiaries
Decree 249 applies broadly to both Vietnamese and foreign experts, including overseas Vietnamese, who meet specific academic and professional criteria. Eligible entities that may engage such experts include:
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Central and local agencies of the Communist Party of Vietnam, the State, and the Vietnam Fatherland Front;
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Political and socio-political organizations;
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The armed forces; and
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Enterprises or organizations assigned to lead national or sectoral programs and projects in science, technology, and innovation.
This expansive scope underscores Vietnam’s recognition of the private sector and public institutions as equally vital partners in fostering innovation and digital transformation.
2. Criteria for Recognition as an Expert
Under the decree, individuals may be classified as experts if they satisfy one or more of the following key criteria:
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They have led or participated in scientific or technological projects—particularly within strategic technology sectors designated by competent authorities;
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They are authors or co-authors of patented inventions protected by intellectual property rights and applied in practice; or
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They hold a doctoral degree from one of the world’s top 200 universities, as ranked by reputable global rankings (such as QS or THE), and possess at least five years of teaching or research experience at recognized international institutions in relevant disciplines.
These requirements are intended to ensure the selection of individuals whose expertise aligns with global best practices and whose work can directly contribute to Vietnam’s technological advancement and innovation ecosystem.
3. Obligations and Responsibilities
Experts are required to comply with Vietnamese law, adhere to international regulations, and ensure confidentiality and data protection concerning the projects, programs, or tasks assigned. They bear personal liability for any violation of contractual obligations that may result in financial loss, mismanagement of assets, damage to products, or disclosure of state secrets. This clause reflects the Government’s commitment to ensuring accountability and professional discipline within sensitive research and technology transfer domains.
4. Incentives and Support Policies
To attract and retain qualified experts, the Decree provides for a range of financial and non-financial incentives, including:
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A one-month salary allowance upon commencement of employment to cover accommodation, travel, and initial living expenses;
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Access to housing and transport allowances, or the provision of standard apartments and means of transportation during their tenure;
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Coverage of international travel expenses for research trips, scientific exchanges, and conferences when experts are nominated by the lead agency; and
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Preferential conditions for naturalization, enabling eligible foreign experts to apply for Vietnamese citizenship under simplified procedures.
These measures align Vietnam with international norms in talent mobility and scientific collaboration, signaling an intent to build a globally competitive research environment.
5. Policy Implications and Strategic Outlook
Decree 249/2025/ND-CP should be viewed as a cornerstone policy instrument within Vietnam’s broader strategy for technological sovereignty and sustainable innovation. It complements existing initiatives such as the National Strategy on Digital Transformation to 2030 and the Science, Technology, and Innovation Development Strategy, both of which emphasize the critical role of human resources and international cooperation.
For enterprises—particularly those engaged in high-tech, R&D, and digital sectors—the Decree provides a clear legal foundation for recruiting and collaborating with foreign and overseas Vietnamese experts under state-endorsed frameworks. It also presents opportunities for public–private partnerships in innovation and technology transfer, especially in sectors such as AI, renewable energy, biotechnology, advanced materials, and smart manufacturing.
From a regulatory perspective, this policy enhances Vietnam’s ability to integrate into global value chains in research and innovation while ensuring legal clarity and protection for experts. The inclusion of compliance obligations and confidentiality clauses further strengthens Vietnam’s reputation as a responsible and secure destination for international scientific collaboration.
6. Conclusion
With the issuance of Decree No. 249/2025/ND-CP, Vietnam has reaffirmed its long-term commitment to cultivating an innovation-driven economy through the strategic attraction of global expertise. The decree not only reflects the Government’s proactive stance toward global talent integration but also provides a robust legal framework to ensure both accountability and incentives for experts contributing to the country’s transformative agenda in science, technology, and digital governance.
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Prepared by Lexora Partner – Legal Insights and Regulatory Updates
https://lexorapartner.com.vn
