Vietnam, with its long coastline and rich tourism ecosystem, has long been an ideal destination for foreign investors in the resort real estate sector. However, amid post-pandemic market fluctuations and adjustments in land-related legal policies, investors are asking a big question: Is FDI in tourism and resort real estate still attractive?

The Post-COVID-19 Outlook for Tourism Real Estate

After a prolonged shutdown due to the pandemic, Vietnam’s tourism market is gradually recovering. International visitor numbers are rising steadily each quarter, and demand for high-end accommodation is expanding. Yet uneven recovery across regions means new investment projects must reassess their long-term viability.

Many foreign investors choose Vietnam not only because investment costs remain lower than in regional competitors like Thailand or Indonesia, but also because of its sustainable tourism growth potential. Nha Trang (Khanh Hoa), Phu Quoc, Da Nang, and Quang Nam remain hot spots attracting foreign capital—especially in segments like condotels, resorts, and beachfront villas.

Key Legal Considerations for Investing in Vietnam’s Resort Real Estate

Foreign investors must be well-versed in legal regulations covering investment forms, land-use conditions, and ownership of land-attached assets when investing in Vietnam’s tourism real estate sector. Without thorough legal advice and preparation, investors could face substantial risks—particularly with condotel and officetel models, which still lack clear guidelines on long-term ownership rights.

Laws on Land Use Rights and Ownership Forms

According to current regulations, foreign investors cannot own land in Vietnam—only lease land from the State or acquire land-use rights via a Vietnamese enterprise with FDI. In resort development cases, investors typically use commercial service land with a 50-year term (renewable). Transfers, sub-leases, or capital contributions involving land-use rights must comply with land, investment, and corporate law.

Permits and Approval Process for FDI Real Estate Projects

Prior to any project rollout, investors must obtain an Investment Registration Certificate. This is followed by multiple other procedures: getting investment policy approval, planning authorization, environmental impact assessment, construction permits, etc. In reality, this process is often time-consuming, requiring well-prepared and compliant documentation—plus the support of experienced legal counsel—to liaise with authorities. Any misstep can delay or derail the project or even prompt permit revocation.

Conditions for Transferring Resort Real Estate to Individual Buyers

A major concern for investors is selling resort properties to individual buyers (domestic or foreign). However, condotel products still face uncertainty around long-term ownership and land-use right certification. Transfers must comply with contracts, have full construction permits and legal paperwork, and ensure buyers are clearly informed about ownership duration and usage rights. This clarity is essential to avoid disputes and preserve corporate reputation.

How to Make FDI in Resort Real Estate Effective and Sustainable in Vietnam

Today’s investors must build a sustainable, systematic investment strategy based not just on natural potential but also legal compliance and long-term profitability.

Choosing the Right Investment Form and Controlling Legal Risks

Depending on financial capacity and investment goals, investors can choose to establish a wholly foreign-owned enterprise, enter into a joint venture with a Vietnamese firm, or acquire equity in an already licensed project. Regardless of the chosen form, carrying out thorough due diligence—confirming partner transparency, dispute-free projects, and complete legal documentation—is essential. Moreover, commercial contracts must be tightly drafted with foresight for potential risks.

Conclusion

FDI in Vietnam’s resort real estate remains a channel full of potential—but it’s no longer “easy money.” It demands thorough preparation, long-term vision, and clear legal strategy. Having a professional firm like DEDICA by your side lays a solid foundation for a safe, effective, and sustainable investment journey in Vietnam.

If you’re seeking FDI solutions in Vietnam’s real estate sector, contact DEDICA for the most optimal legal and investment strategy!
Contact DEDICA Law Firm for in-depth legal consultancy!
📞 Hotline: (+84) 39 969 0012 (Available via WhatsApp, WeChat, Zalo)
🏢 Head Office: 144 Võ Văn Tần Street, Võ Thị Sáu Ward, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City
🕒 Working Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30–18:00
Reach out now for your first free consultation with our professional lawyers!