The new law will take effect from July 2020.

Vietnam’s lawmakers recently passed a revision of the Law on Entry, Exit, Transit and Residence of Foreigners on the morning of November 25, Tuoi Tre reports. One of the amendments in the new immigration policy allows foreign visitors to change their visa status without leaving the country under certain conditions.

Foreign investors or representatives of a foreign organization that invests in Vietnam can have their purpose on the visa changed and thus don’t have to leave the country to renew their visa anymore. The family members of these individuals will also enjoy this privilege.

Foreigners currently on an e-visa or who have received job offers in Vietnam — who have already obtained a work permit or a confirmation that they’re qualified for a work permit — will also be able to change their visa status.

Besides the new policy, the passed law amendments will now also allow foreigners to enter certain coastal economic zones for up to 30 days without a travel visa, according to VnExpress. The coastal economic zones eligible for this policy are ones that have an international airport, distinct space, a clear territorial border, and is suitable with Vietnam’s socio-economic development policy.

[Photo via Flickr user dcgreer]