Government Resolution No. 08/2025/NQ-CP, which permits eligible Vietnamese citizens to enter casinos at certain licensed casino projects, officially took effect on 26 November 2025, contributing to the diversification of tourism activities in Vietnam.

The Resolution clearly stipulates a pilot scheme allowing eligible Vietnamese citizens to enter the casino at the Ho Tram casino project (Ho Chi Minh City) for a period of five years from the date the Resolution comes into force.

In practice, permitting Vietnamese citizens to enter casinos does not constitute an “open-door” or unrestricted policy; rather, it is implemented within a framework of strict control and full legal compliance from the outset. At The Grand Ho Tram, patrons are required to meet all statutory conditions, including being at least 21 years of age and possessing full civil act capacity in accordance with Vietnamese law. The presentation of an original Vietnamese citizen identification card or passport is mandatory to clearly establish the individual’s identity and legal status prior to entry.

Beyond personal eligibility requirements, the most significant distinction in operating casinos for Vietnamese citizens lies in the obligation to demonstrate financial capacity. Under current regulations, Vietnamese nationals seeking casino entry must submit documentation proving a stable source of income or that they are subject to taxation at a prescribed level. This requirement goes beyond self-declaration and must be supported by valid documents such as income certifications, employment contracts, banking records, or tax files that fully comply with legal standards. During operations, casinos are entitled to verify, cross-check, and retain such information in accordance with regulations before allowing patrons to complete entry procedures.

Another important element is the entrance fee, which is applied uniformly in line with State regulations.

Once inside, the Ho Tram casino applies supervisory measures aligned with international standards. Casino areas are subject to continuous video recording and monitoring to ensure security, transparency, and the prevention of fraudulent activities. By entering the premises, patrons are deemed to have consented to the collection and use of images for internal management purposes or at the request of competent authorities. At the same time, prohibited acts, such as the use of recording devices, the carrying of dangerous items or stimulants, or disruptive behavior, are strictly controlled and may result in refusal of service or the application of measures in accordance with regulations.

Notably, operational procedures also incorporate social protection considerations through exclusion mechanisms. Individuals who fall under legally prohibited categories, those under the eligible age, those who fail to meet financial requirements, or those who have submitted requests to bar themselves or their relatives from casino participation are not permitted to access casino areas. This mechanism reflects a preventive management approach that prioritizes risk control over the expansion of participant numbers.

In cases where fraud or regulatory violations are suspected, the casino reserves the right to require players to suspend participation, prepare incident reports, and coordinate with competent authorities for handling in strict accordance with the law. This underscores the role of casinos not merely as providers of conditional entertainment services, but also as integral components of the State’s pilot policy implementation and compliance framework.

“Responsible gaming is always at the heart of everything we do,” affirmed Walt Power, CEO of The Grand Ho Tram. “The Grand Ho Tram is committed to delivering entertainment experiences in a safe, transparent environment with strong social responsibility. We take pride in building our operating standards in line with international best practices, thereby making a positive contribution to the sustainable development of Vietnam’s tourism and entertainment industries.”

The operation of casinos for Vietnamese citizens at Ho Tram reflects a cautious approach that emphasizes management, screening, and control, rather than a policy aimed at increasing participation volume. 

While the long-term effectiveness of this model will require additional time and data for comprehensive assessment, its practical implementation demonstrates a concerted effort to balance local economic development objectives with social management responsibilities within the framework of existing law.