Decree outlines permanent residency requirements
http://www.vientianetimes.org.la/FreeContent/free_Decree%20outlines%20permanent....People of Lao origin living abroad, as well as foreign nationals, can apply for permanent residency in Laos once a new decree is approved by the government.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs' Lao Overseas Affairs Department Director General, Mr Ly Bounkham, told Vientiane Times this week the new decree could be approved in the very near future.
A government meeting held in Vientiane recently approved the decree in principle but advised the relevant sectors to refine and clarify it.
Mr Ly said the new draft decree will cover two groups of people - people of Lao origin living abroad and foreign nationals, including stateless people.
“The aim of the decree is to encourage people of Lao origin living abroad to return to their homeland and contribute to national development in their birthplace.”
“The new decree also aims to respond to the demands of people of Lao origin living abroad who want to return home and spent the rest of their lives in Laos.”
Everyone living in Laos must respect the laws and constitution of the country and its traditional culture and social order, as well as pay taxes to the government based on the relevant laws and contribute to maintaining security.
Mr Ly said people granted permanent residency will no longer need a visa to visit Laos.
They will also have the right to buy goods such as cars, but not the right to buy land as a decree on the matter is still being drafted.
One important requirement for permanent residency is the presence of a relative in Laos willing to act as a guarantor for the applicant, who must also be in good health and have no criminal record.
If the decree is approved, people of Lao origin living abroad can submit an application for permanent residency at the Lao Embassy or Consul General Office in the country where they live. The application will then be sent to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the relevant authorities for consideration within 3 months.
“Many people have expressed an interest in living in Laos permanently. Many people have asked when the decree on permanent residency will be approved,” Mr Ly said.
“They want to live in Laos after seeing the positive changes in the nation's development. They want to live in Laos because they have relatives here.”
More than 700,000 people of Lao origin live in other countries, including the US, Canada, France and Australia. Many of them left after 1975 .
The draft decree also stipulates seven conditions for foreign nationals or stateless people seeking permanent residency in Laos.
They must have lived in Laos for 10 continuous years and must commit to living in Laos for at least 10 months each year. Specialists and scientists can also apply for permanent residency.
People who have operated a stable business in Laos for at least five years with an investment value of at least US$500,000 can also apply for permanent residency. A person who does a good deed to aid the nation's development can also apply for permanent residency.
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