As global uncertainties in economic policies present challenges, Vietnam is positioned to establish itself as a significant international financial hub, thanks to recent recommendations from the Vietnamese intellectual association in the UK and Ireland. A strategic development plan must be put in place, emphasizing a transparent business atmosphere, a skilled workforce, modern financial infrastructure, a solid financial market, and internationally recognized brands.
During a meeting with Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Hoa Binh as part of his visit to the UK, experts from the Vietnamese Intellectual Society highlighted the need for systematic investments in human resources to enhance competitiveness and integrate into global trends.
Professor Nguyen Xuan Huan, president of VIS, stated that the association is committed to contributing to the establishment and development of an international financial center in Vietnam through in-depth training, impactful research, and connection with intellectual networks.
On another continent, March 18, 2025, marked a pivotal moment as the German Foreign Ministry reported on increased measures affecting German citizens' entry to the U.S. The ministry warned of thorough checks and searches, potentially affecting those traveling with a valid ESTA visa.
This heightened scrutiny comes amid the Trump administration’s stricter immigration policies implemented during the initial months of his presidency. Following Germany, Denmark also updated its travel advisory on March 20, cautioning travelers about the U.S. immigration landscape and highlighting that even those with valid visas may not gain entry without increased scrutiny.
In a striking comment, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio emphasized that visa approvals are not guaranteed, stressing that applicants should not expect automatic acceptance, irrespective of previous authorizations.
In an alarming warning directed at Vietnamese nationals, the Vietnamese Consulate General in San Francisco issued a post on March 22, 2025, alerting foreign nationals about expected stricter immigration checks in the U.S. Consul General Hoang Anh Tuan urged that Vietnamese students and individuals seeking visas should anticipate challenges at border entry. Furthermore, Vietnamese citizens are advised to meticulously prepare all necessary documents and exercise caution, especially concerning social media activities, which could attract unwanted attention.
The Consulate issued crucial advice for Vietnamese students, immigrants, and professionals residing in the U.S., outlining ten essential points that emphasize the legal complexities surrounding visas and green cards.
Among the recommendations is the importance of not letting green cards expire, as this could lead to denied re-entry into the U.S. Additionally, even valid green card holders should limit travel outside the U.S. during politically sensitive periods.
Furthermore, they advised against posting or sharing politically sensitive material online, as such actions could result in increased scrutiny from immigration authorities. Additional guidelines included avoiding participation in political gatherings and abiding by local laws to ensure compliance with immigration regulations.
One particularly jarring incident involved a French researcher visiting the U.S. for a scientific conference, who faced denial of entry when U.S. officials found critical remarks about U.S. policies in his private messages. The incident sheds light on the heightened enforcement environment that now exists for individuals from all backgrounds, potentially complicating their entry and residency applications further.
The Vietnamese Consulate emphasized the need for vigilance among Vietnamese students and professionals in the U.S., as simplistic actions could have serious implications. They stressed the importance of remaining aware of how one’s online presence could be viewed by authorities and the necessity for careful and responsible behavior at all times.
Consequently, the Vietnamese community in the U.S. is urged to connect with the Vietnamese diplomatic missions should they face unexpected legal challenges. This emphasizes a collective responsibility to remain informed and proactive amid ever-evolving immigration policies and global political climates.
Amid these developments, it’s clear that both Vietnam’s aspirations to become a financial hub and the stringent immigration policies impacting Vietnamese citizens highlight the dynamic interplay of international relationships and domestic policies.
