Hanoi (VNA) – Draft amendments to the Law on Vietnamese Nationality are expected to facilitate the acquisition or restoration of Vietnamese nationality by foreigners and overseas Vietnamese (OVs), Minister of Justice Nguyen Hai Ninh said on April 28 during a meeting of National Assembly (NA) Standing Committee.
According to the minister, the draft features the revision of some regulations related to nationality acquisition, making it easier for individuals with Vietnamese parents or grandparents, as well as foreign investors, scientists and experts, to gain Vietnamese citizenship.
Several regulations are proposed to be changed or supplemented to facilitate the restoration of Vietnamese nationality for individuals who currently do not hold it.
The draft law stipulates that all individuals who no longer hold Vietnamese nationality can apply to regain it. It also allows applicants to retain their foreign nationality under certain conditions approved by the Government and allowed by the State President.
When Vietnamese citizens with dual nationality participate in elected bodies and political system agencies, or perform military or public security duties, they must hold only Vietnamese nationality and reside in Vietnam, according to the draft. This aims to ensure national security and interests.
The draft includes provisions for exceptional cases to allow the recruitment of individuals with outstanding capabilities into public service units.
The NA’s Legal Affairs and Justice Committee supports these proposed amendments but asks for careful consideration regarding exceptions, particularly for recruitment purposes. Additionally, there are calls to review existing laws that require individuals to hold only Vietnamese nationality.
These amendments are expected to be discussed at the NA’s meeting in May./.
