Complete Guide to Bringing Your Family to Vietnam: TT Visa Process, Requirements, and Legal Requirements

Foreign teachers and professionals working in Vietnam can bring their spouse and children under 18 to live with them using a TT visa (dependent visa), valid for up to 12 months according to Law No. 51/2019/QH14. You must hold a valid work permit and specific visa types (LD1, LD2, DT, NN, etc.) to sponsor family members. Your family enters Vietnam on tourist or e-visas ($25-50 USD from official evisa.gov.vn), then your employer submits TT visa applications to Vietnam Immigration Department for conversion to dependent status inside Vietnam.

Starting your teaching career in Vietnam is exciting, but the thought of being separated from your family can be challenging. Fortunately, Vietnam’s immigration system provides clear pathways for foreign workers to bring their immediate family members to live with them during their employment period. This guide walks you through the complete TT visa application process using verified information from official government sources and U.S. Embassy guidelines to ensure your family reunion happens smoothly and legally.

Important Disclaimer: Immigration regulations and fees change frequently. All information in this guide is current as of December 2025 based on official sources, but you must verify current requirements, processing times, and fees directly with Vietnam Immigration Department before submitting applications.

What Is a TT Visa and Who Qualifies to Bring Family to Vietnam?

A TT visa (dependent visa) allows spouses and children under 18 of foreign workers to reside in Vietnam for up to 12 months according to Law No. 51/2019/QH14 dated November 25, 2019. You qualify to sponsor family members if you hold a valid work permit and one of these visa types: LD1, LD2 (labor visas), DT1, DT2, DT3 (investor visas), LV1, LV2 (government work), NN1, NN2 (expert visas), DH (student visa), or PV1 (journalist visa). Your visa must have sufficient remaining validity to support the dependent visa period you’re requesting.

Who Can You Bring as Dependents?

According to Law No. 51/2019/QH14, the Vietnam Immigration Department recognizes the following family members as eligible dependents:

• Spouses – Legally married partners with valid marriage certificate
• Children under 18 years old – Biological or legally adopted children

Important Restrictions: Foreign workers cannot sponsor parents, adult children over 18, or extended family members (siblings, grandparents, cousins) under the TT visa category. Only Vietnamese citizens can sponsor their parents for dependent visas.

Visa Type Requirements for Sponsors

Your eligibility to sponsor depends on your current visa classification according to Vietnam’s immigration law:

Your Visa Type	Can Sponsor Family?	TT Visa Duration	Typical For
LD1, LD2 (Work Permit)	Yes	Up to 12 months	English teachers, office workers
DT1, DT2, DT3 (Investor)	Yes	Up to 12 months	Business owners, investors
NN1, NN2 (Expert)	Yes	Up to 12 months	Technical specialists
LV1, LV2 (Government)	Yes	Up to 12 months	International organization staff
DH (Student)	Yes	Up to 12 months	Graduate students
Tourist/E-visa	No	N/A	Cannot sponsor dependents
DN (Business)	No	N/A	Cannot sponsor dependents

Critical Validity Rule: According to multiple immigration sources, your TT visa for family members will expire at least 30 days before your own visa expiration date or passport validity, whichever comes first. Plan accordingly when determining the TT visa duration to request.

How Do You Apply for a Vietnam TT Visa? Complete Step-by-Step Process

The TT visa application requires your employer (sponsor organization) to submit documents to the Vietnam Immigration Department on your behalf. Your family members must first enter Vietnam on valid tourist visas or e-visas obtained from the official government portal at evisa.gov.vn, then convert to TT status inside Vietnam through your employer’s sponsorship application. Contact Vietnam Immigration Department directly for current processing times and fees, as these vary and are not published on official websites.

Step 1: Family Members Enter Vietnam (Apply E-visa First)

Before beginning the TT visa application process, your family must enter Vietnam legally. The most straightforward method is the official e-visa:

Official Vietnam E-visa (from evisa.gov.vn):

• Cost: $25 USD for single-entry OR $50 USD for multiple-entry
• Validity: Up to 90 days
• Processing: 3-5 business days (standard)
• Application: https://evisa.gov.vn or https://thithucdientu.gov.vn (official government portals only)
• Entry points: All 13 international airports, 16 land borders, 13 seaports

Requirements for e-visa:

• Passport valid for at least 6 months
• Recent passport photo (4cm x 6cm, white background)
• Payment via international credit/debit card
• Entry/exit dates and port information

E-visa fees are non-refundable even if application is rejected. Ensure all information is accurate before submitting.

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents for TT Visa Application

Your employer must prepare a complete document package. According to immigration procedures, required documents include:

For the Sponsor (You):

1. Form NA5 – Application for visa issuance/extension for foreigners (certified by your employer)
2. Copy of your valid passport (photo page + current visa page)
3. Copy of your work permit or work permit exemption certificate
4. Copy of your temporary residence card (if you have one)
5. Letter of introduction from your employer requesting TT visa sponsorship

For Each Family Member:

1. Original passport – Valid for at least 6 months with at least 1 blank visa page
2. Current valid visa – The tourist/e-visa they used to enter Vietnam
3. Marriage certificate (for spouse) – Original + certified Vietnamese translation with consular legalization
4. Birth certificate (for children) – Original + certified Vietnamese translation with consular legalization
5. Two passport photos – 4cm x 6cm, white background, recent

Critical Document Translation Requirements: All documents issued outside Vietnam must be:

• Translated into Vietnamese by a licensed translator
• Consular legalization by Vietnamese embassy/consulate in issuing country
• Apostille stamp (if from Hague Convention countries)

This process takes 2-4 weeks if done after arrival in Vietnam. Complete document legalization in your home country before departure to avoid delays.

Step 3: Employer Submits Application to Immigration Office

Your employer submits the complete document package to the appropriate Vietnam Immigration Department office. According to the U.S. Embassy in Vietnam (updated August 2025), the official immigration offices are:

Immigration Department in Hanoi (for Northern Vietnam)

• Address: 44-46 Tran Phu, Ba Dinh, Hanoi
• Phone: (24) 3825-7941
• Email: contact@immigration.gov.vn
• Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM and 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

Immigration Office in Da Nang (for Central Vietnam)

• Address: 78 Le Loi, Hai Chau, Da Nang
• Phone: 0694260192 or 0906091269
• Fax: (236) 388-9820
• Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM and 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

Immigration Office in HCMC (for HCMC residents)

• Address: 196 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, Xuan Hoa Ward, HCMC
• Phone: (28) 3824-4074 or (28) 3829-9398
• Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM and 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

Important: For more complex cases or applications for other regions, contact:

• Immigration Department in HCMC (main office): 333-335-337 Nguyen Trai, District 1, HCMC
• Phone: (28) 3920-0365

Processing Time: Immigration offices do not publish official processing times online. Based on procedural experience, expect minimum 5-7 business days, but your employer should confirm current processing times when submitting.

Step 4: Receive TT Visa Stamp

Upon approval, your family members receive the TT visa stamp directly in their passports at the Immigration Office.

Important Advantage: Your family does not need to exit and re-enter Vietnam to activate this visa. The conversion happens inside Vietnam, and the TT visa becomes immediately valid upon stamping.

What if family is outside Vietnam? If your family members are still abroad, the Immigration Department can issue an approval letter that they present at a Vietnamese embassy/consulate or use for visa-on-arrival at Vietnam airports.

What Are the Costs of Bringing Your Family to Vietnam?

Cost information for TT visa applications is not published on official Vietnamese government websites. According to U.S. Embassy guidance, applicants should contact Vietnam Immigration Department directly for current fee schedules. E-visa costs are officially $25 USD (single-entry) or $50 USD (multiple-entry) from evisa.gov.vn. Additional costs include document translation ($30-80 USD per document), consular legalization ($20-50 USD per document), and passport photos ($5-10 USD per person).

Verified Costs from Official Sources

Expense Category	Official Cost	Source	Notes
E-visa for Initial Entry	$25 USD (single) / $50 USD (multiple)	evisa.gov.vn	Non-refundable government fee
TT Visa Application Fee	Contact Immigration Office	Not published online	Varies by office and case
Document Translation	$30-80 USD per document	Market rates	Marriage/birth certificates
Consular Legalization	$20-50 USD per document	Embassy rates	Varies by country
Passport Photos	$5-10 USD per person	Market rates	Two photos per applicant

Cost-Saving Strategies

Before Leaving Your Home Country:

• Complete all document translation and consular legalization at Vietnamese embassy in your home country (often cheaper and faster than in Vietnam)
• Get multiple certified copies of translated documents
• Take passport photos that meet Vietnam specifications

In Vietnam:

• Have your employer handle applications directly rather than using visa agencies
• Use official e-visa portal (evisa.gov.vn) rather than third-party services
• Combine multiple family members in one employer submission

Comparing TT Visa vs. Alternative Options

Option	Validity	Official Cost	Pros	Cons
TT Visa	12 months max	Contact office	Path to Residence Card	Requires employer
Tourist E-visa	90 days	$25-50 USD	Easy online application	Must exit every 90 days
5-Year Exemption	5 years	Contact embassy	Long validity	Only Vietnamese citizen spouses/children
Temporary Residence Card (TRC)	Up to 3 years	Contact office	No annual renewals	Must have TT visa first

Fee Disclaimer: Vietnam Immigration Department does not publish comprehensive fee schedules online. Contact your nearest immigration office or have your employer verify current fees before beginning applications.

What Documents Must Your Family Members Provide? Complete Checklist

Family members need an original passport valid for 6+ months, marriage certificate or birth certificate with certified Vietnamese translation and consular legalization, two recent passport photos (4cm x 6cm, white background), and a current valid Vietnam visa (e-visa or tourist visa from evisa.gov.vn). All foreign-issued documents require notarized Vietnamese translation and consular legalization from Vietnamese embassy in the issuing country.

Essential Documents for Spouses

Passport Requirements:

• Valid for minimum 6 months beyond intended stay
• At least 1 full blank visa page available
• No significant damage, water marks, or alterations

Marriage Certificate:

• Original certificate from issuing country/authority
• Must have consular legalization from Vietnamese embassy in issuing country
• Certified Vietnamese translation by licensed translator
• Both spouses’ names must match passports exactly

Current Entry Visa:

• E-visa from evisa.gov.vn ($25-50 USD)
• OR tourist visa obtained at Vietnamese embassy abroad
• Must be valid at time of TT visa application

Passport Photos:

• Size: 4cm x 6cm (Vietnam standard visa photo size)
• Background: Plain white, no patterns or shadows
• Taken within last 6 months
• Direct face view, no glasses, hats, or head coverings (religious exceptions allowed with prior approval)

Essential Documents for Children Under 18

Child’s Own Passport:

• Valid for minimum 6 months
• Child must have their own passport (cannot be included in parent’s passport)
• At least 1 blank visa page

Birth Certificate:

• Original certificate showing both parents’ names
• Must have consular legalization from Vietnamese embassy
• Certified Vietnamese translation by licensed translator
• For adopted children: legal adoption decree with same legalization requirements

Custody Documents (if applicable):

• Divorce decree with custody arrangements
• Notarized consent letter from non-traveling parent
• Court orders (if sole custody applies)

Special Requirement for Single Parents: Vietnamese immigration may request notarized consent from the non-traveling parent authorizing the child’s residence in Vietnam. Prepare this document before departure to avoid delays.

Where to Get Document Legalization

Before Leaving Your Home Country:

1. Contact nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate
2. Request “consular legalization” service for personal documents
3. Submit original marriage/birth certificates
4. Expect 1-2 weeks processing time
5. Cost typically $20-50 USD per document (varies by country)

Vietnamese Embassies in Major Countries:

• USA: Vietnamese Embassy Washington D.C. – https://vietnamembassy-usa.org
• UK: Vietnamese Embassy London – https://vietnamembassy.org.uk
• Australia: Vietnamese Embassy Canberra – https://vietnamembassy.org.au
• Canada: Vietnamese Embassy Ottawa – https://vietnamembassy-canada.ca

Documents legalized in your home country are generally processed faster and cheaper than arranging legalization after arriving in Vietnam.

For families dealing with document loss or replacement during their stay, including passport issues, refer to our guide on what to do if you lose your passport in Vietnam for emergency procedures and embassy contact information.

How Long Can Your Family Stay in Vietnam with a TT Visa?

TT visas are valid for up to 12 months maximum according to Law No. 51/2019/QH14, but actual validity is always at least 30 days shorter than either your (the sponsor’s) visa expiration date or your family member’s passport expiration, whichever comes first. The visa allows single or multiple entries depending on the type issued. Extensions are possible through your employer before expiration by submitting new applications to Vietnam Immigration Department.

TT Visa Validity Rules

According to Vietnam’s immigration law, validity periods follow these strict parameters:

Maximum Legal Duration: 12 months from date of issue (per Law No. 51/2019/QH14)

Actual Duration Calculation:

1. Check your (sponsor’s) visa expiration date
2. Subtract minimum 30 days
3. Compare with family member’s passport expiration date
4. TT visa expires on whichever date comes first

Example Calculation:

• Your work visa expires: December 31, 2025
• Your spouse’s passport expires: June 30, 2026
• Maximum TT visa validity: November 30, 2025 (30 days before your visa)
• Actual TT visa granted: November 30, 2025 or earlier

Single Entry vs. Multiple Entry TT Visas

According to immigration procedures, TT visas can be issued as:

Single Entry: Family member can enter Vietnam once. If they exit Vietnam, they must apply for a new visa.

Multiple Entry: Family member can exit and re-enter Vietnam freely during the visa validity period.

Important: The choice between single and multiple entry should be specified in your employer’s application to the Immigration Department. Confirm which type your employer is requesting.

Recommendation: Request multiple-entry TT visas to allow flexibility for:

• Regional travel (Thailand, Cambodia, Singapore)
• Emergency trips to home country
• Family visits outside Vietnam

Extending Your Family’s TT Visa

TT visas can be extended before expiration through the same application process:

Extension Requirements:

• Apply before current visa expires (exact timing varies by office – consult Immigration Department)
• Your (sponsor’s) visa must still have sufficient validity
• Submit new Form NA5 through your employer
• Provide updated documents if required
• Pay applicable extension fees (contact Immigration Office for current rates)

Extension Limitations:

• Total time in Vietnam (initial + extensions) cannot exceed your work contract duration
• Each extension still follows the “30 days shorter than sponsor’s visa” rule
• After multiple years on TT visas, consider applying for Temporary Residence Card (TRC) for 3-year validity

Can Your Family Members Work or Study in Vietnam on a TT Visa?

TT visa holders cannot legally work in Vietnam according to Law No. 51/2019/QH14 – the visa is strictly for family residence purposes only. However, children can attend Vietnamese public schools and international schools without additional permits. Spouses can pursue educational programs including university degrees and language courses without separate study visas. If your spouse wants to work in Vietnam, they must obtain their own work permit and convert to a labor visa (LD visa) through a sponsoring employer.

Employment Restrictions for TT Visa Holders

Spouses on TT visas are legally prohibited from:

• Full-time or part-time employment
• Freelance work, consulting, or contract work
• Teaching English (including private tutoring)
• Operating a business or receiving business income
• Receiving salary payments from Vietnamese or foreign companies

Legal Consequence: Working on a TT visa violates Vietnamese immigration law and can result in visa cancellation, fines, deportation, and future entry bans.

If Your Spouse Wants to Work Legally:

1. Find Vietnamese employer willing to sponsor
2. Employer applies for work permit from Department of Labor
3. Work permit requirements: University degree + 3+ years relevant experience (or equivalent qualifications)
4. Convert from TT visa to LD visa (labor visa) through Immigration Department
5. Process takes several weeks – plan accordingly

The conversion requires the new employer to handle all sponsorship paperwork independently.

Education Access for TT Visa Holders

Children’s Education Options:

Public Schools:

• Foreign children can enroll with TT visa
• Primary education has minimal fees for Vietnamese citizens; fees for foreign nationals vary by school
• Vietnamese language proficiency required for instruction
• Most suitable for families committed to long-term residence

International Schools:

• Full access with TT visa status
• Annual tuition (2025-2026): $15,000-38,000 USD in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi
• English-language instruction (British, American, IB curricula)
• Major schools include: International School Ho Chi Minh City (ISHCMC), British International School, United Nations International School Hanoi

Verified Tuition Ranges (2025-2026 Academic Year):

Based on official school announcements:

• ISHCMC: 681.9 million VND – 959 million VND (~$26,000-38,000 USD) annually
• British International School HCMC: 238.1 million VND – 956.3 million VND (~$9,000-37,000 USD) annually
• UNIS Hanoi: $12,570 – $38,210 USD annually depending on grade
• Saigon South International School (SSIS): 509.8 million VND – 882.2 million VND (~$20,000-34,000 USD) annually

Additional Costs: Tuition does not include registration fees ($950-4,700 USD one-time), application fees ($130-1,100 USD), annual development fees, uniforms, transportation, meals, or extracurricular activities.

Private Vietnamese Schools:

• Annual tuition: $2,000-10,000 USD
• Smaller class sizes than public schools
• Some English instruction combined with Vietnamese curriculum

Spouse’s Education Access:

• University Programs: TT visa holders can enroll in Vietnamese universities for undergraduate or graduate degrees without separate study visas
• Language Schools: Vietnamese language courses widely available; costs range $200-500 USD for 3-month intensive programs
• Professional Development: Short-term training programs, workshops, and certifications allowed under TT visa

What Are Common Problems When Bringing Family to Vietnam and How to Solve Them?

Common issues include document translation and consular legalization taking 2-4 weeks, employer refusal to sponsor TT visas at smaller schools, passport validity under 6 months causing application rejection, and housing registration complications when landlords won’t complete temporary residence registration required within 24 hours of arrival. Most problems can be avoided through advance preparation in your home country, clear employment contract terms requiring visa sponsorship, and choosing housing with management that handles registration automatically.

Problem 1: Document Translation and Legalization Delays

Issue: Marriage and birth certificates require Vietnamese translation and consular legalization, which takes 2-4 weeks if arranged after arrival in Vietnam.

Solution:

1. Before leaving your home country, contact nearest Vietnamese embassy/consulate
2. Request consular legalization service for your marriage certificate and children’s birth certificates
3. Have documents translated by embassy-approved translator
4. Bring both original and legalized copies to Vietnam
5. Budget 2-3 weeks for this process before Vietnam departure

Cost: Typically $20-50 USD per document for consular legalization (varies by country)

Emergency Option in Vietnam:

• Use certified translation services in major cities (Hanoi, HCMC, Da Nang)
• Costs are higher ($80-150 USD per document)
• Still requires consular legalization – may need to send documents to embassy

Problem 2: Employer Unwilling to Sponsor TT Visas

Issue: Smaller language centers or private tutoring organizations may lack administrative capacity or refuse to sponsor TT visa applications.

Solution:

1. Negotiate sponsorship BEFORE accepting job offer – include TT visa sponsorship as explicit employment contract condition
2. Offer to prepare all documents yourself (reduces employer’s administrative burden)
3. If employer still refuses, consider these alternatives:
   • Switch to larger international schools or universities with dedicated HR departments
   • Hire licensed visa agency to manage process on your behalf (at your expense)
   • Family maintains tourist visas and exits/re-enters every 90 days (not ideal long-term)

Prevention: During job interviews, explicitly ask: “Does your school sponsor TT visas for employees’ family members?”

Problem 3: Passport Validity Insufficient

Issue: Family member’s passport expires in less than 6 months, making them ineligible for TT visa application.

Solution:

1. Apply for passport renewal immediately at your home country’s embassy in Vietnam
2. Contact information for major embassies:

U.S. Citizens:

• U.S. Embassy Hanoi: (024) 3850-5000, ACSHanoi@state.gov
• U.S. Consulate General HCMC: (028) 3520-4200, ACSHochiminhcity@state.gov

UK Citizens:

• British Embassy Hanoi: +84 (24) 3936 0500

Australian Citizens:

• Australian Embassy Hanoi: +84 (24) 3774 0100

3. Passport renewal typically takes 2-3 weeks standard service, 1 week expedited
4. Cannot submit TT visa application until new passport received

For comprehensive guidance on emergency passport replacement procedures in Vietnam, see our detailed guide on what to do if you lose your passport in Vietnam.

Problem 4: Housing Registration Issues

Issue: Vietnamese law requires foreigners to register temporary residence within 24 hours of arrival. Some landlords refuse to complete this registration, which is required for TT visa applications.

Solution:

1. Verify registration commitment before signing lease – make it explicit contract condition
2. If landlord refuses after you’ve moved in:
   • Report to local police station within 24 hours yourself
   • Bring: Lease agreement, landlord contact information, your passport, family passports
   • Police can assist with registration even without landlord cooperation
3. Best Option: Choose housing where registration is automatic:
   • International apartment complexes (common in District 2 HCMC, Tay Ho Hanoi)
   • Serviced apartments
   • Buildings with professional management companies

Legal Requirement: Failure to register can result in fines of 500,000-1,000,000 VND (approximately $20-40 USD) for you and/or landlord according to immigration regulations.

Problem 5: Application Delays or Rejection

Issue: Immigration Department processing takes longer than expected or application is rejected.

Common Rejection Reasons:

• Incomplete documentation (missing translations or legalizations)
• Sponsor’s visa has insufficient remaining validity
• Errors in forms or inconsistent information
• Previous immigration violations on record

Solution:

1. Request written explanation from Immigration Office for specific rejection reason
2. Correct identified issues completely
3. Resubmit application with complete, corrected documentation
4. If delays exceed expected timeframes, have employer contact Immigration Office directly for status update

Prevention:

• Use document checklist in this guide
• Verify ALL documents are complete before initial submission
• Double-check all dates, names, passport numbers for consistency
• Have employer review application before submission

For complex legal situations or if you need professional guidance, consult with licensed immigration attorneys or visa agencies specializing in dependent visa applications. Refer to our comprehensive guide on what to do if you have legal problems in Vietnam for additional resources and support channels.

How Much Does Living in Vietnam Cost for a Family? Monthly Budget Overview

A foreign teacher’s family of three (two adults, one child) typically needs $2,000-5,000 USD monthly in Vietnam excluding international school tuition, which adds another $1,250-3,200 USD monthly. Major expenses include housing ($500-1,200 USD for 2-bedroom apartments), food and groceries ($400-600 USD), health insurance ($300-600 USD for family), utilities ($50-100 USD), and transportation ($100-200 USD). Costs are highest in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, with secondary cities like Da Nang offering 30-40% lower living expenses.

Monthly Cost Breakdown for Family of Three

Based on current market rates in major Vietnamese cities:

Expense Category	Budget Range	Notes
Housing (2-bedroom apartment)	$500-1,200 USD	Higher in expat districts (District 2 HCMC, Tay Ho Hanoi)
Food & Groceries	$400-600 USD	Western brands cost 2-3x local alternatives
Utilities (electricity, water, internet)	$50-100 USD	Air conditioning significantly impacts costs
Transportation	$100-200 USD	Taxi/Grab services; motorbike rental $50-80/month
Health Insurance (family plan)	$300-600 USD	International coverage strongly recommended
Household Help (optional)	$200-400 USD	Full-time help common for expat families
Entertainment & Dining	$300-500 USD	Restaurants, activities, weekend trips
Miscellaneous	$200-300 USD	Clothing, personal care, unexpected expenses
SUBTOTAL (without school)	$2,050-4,000 USD	Monthly family expenses
+ International School Tuition	+$1,250-3,200 USD	Annual tuition divided by 12 months
TOTAL MONTHLY	$3,300-7,200 USD	Complete family budget with schooling

Tuition Calculation: Based on verified 2025-2026 rates:

• Low end: $15,000 USD/year ÷ 12 = $1,250/month
• High end: $38,000 USD/year ÷ 12 = $3,167/month

Budget-Friendly Alternatives

Significantly Reduce Costs By:

• Vietnamese public school instead of international: Saves $15,000-38,000 USD annually (tuition only)
• Local markets instead of Western supermarkets: Reduces food costs 40-50%
• Motorbike rental ($50-80/month) instead of taxis: Saves $100-150 USD monthly
• Suburban housing outside expat districts: Saves $300-500 USD monthly on rent

Healthcare Costs and Insurance

International Health Insurance (strongly recommended):

Foreign residents should maintain international health insurance covering Vietnam medical facilities. Based on major provider rates:

Family Coverage Options:

• Adults: $150-400 USD per month per person
• Children: $100-250 USD per month per child

Major International Insurance Providers in Vietnam:

• Pacific Cross Vietnam
• Bupa Global
• Cigna Global
• AXA Vietnam

Coverage Should Include:

• Inpatient and outpatient treatment at international hospitals
• Emergency medical evacuation (critical – domestic hospitals have limited capabilities for serious conditions)
• Maternity care (if planning pregnancy)
• Dental and vision (typically separate coverage)

Major International Hospitals:

• Family Medical Practice (Hanoi, HCMC, Da Nang) – English-speaking doctors, Western standards
• Vinmec International Hospital (multiple cities) – Modern facilities
• Franco-Vietnamese Hospital (HCMC) – Established expat facility

Without Insurance: Medical costs at international hospitals are expensive:

• Doctor consultation: $30-80 USD
• Emergency room visit: $100-300 USD
• Hospitalization: $500-2,000+ USD per day

Where Can You Get Official Help with TT Visa Applications? Verified Contact Information

For official TT visa guidance, contact Vietnam Immigration Department offices directly at verified phone numbers and addresses listed on the U.S. Embassy in Vietnam website (vn.usembassy.gov, updated August 2025). Foreign nationals can also contact their embassy in Vietnam for procedural guidance. Licensed visa agencies can provide paid application support, but always verify agency credentials and confirm all information directly with Immigration Department before making final decisions.

Official Government Resources

Vietnam Immigration Department

• Official Website: https://xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn (Vietnamese language only)
• E-visa Portal: https://evisa.gov.vn or https://thithucdientu.gov.vn (English available)
• Email for Foreigners: foreigners@xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn (service support)
• Technical Support: technical_support@immigration.gov.vn

Official Immigration Office Contacts (verified by U.S. Embassy, August 2025):

Hanoi:

• Address: 44-46 Tran Phu, Ba Dinh, Hanoi
• Phone: (24) 3825-7941
• Email: contact@immigration.gov.vn

Da Nang:

• Address: 78 Le Loi, Hai Chau, Da Nang
• Phone: 0694260192 or 0906091269
• Fax: (236) 388-9820

Ho Chi Minh City:

• Address: 196 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, Xuan Hoa Ward, HCMC
• Phone: (28) 3824-4074 or (28) 3829-9398

HCMC (Main Department):

• Address: 333-335-337 Nguyen Trai, District 1, HCMC
• Phone: (28) 3920-0365

Embassy Support for Foreign Nationals

U.S. Embassy and Consulates (for U.S. Citizens):

U.S. Embassy Hanoi:

• Address: 170 Ngoc Khanh Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi
• Phone: (024) 3850-5000
• Email: ACSHanoi@state.gov
• Website: https://vn.usembassy.gov

U.S. Consulate General Ho Chi Minh City:

• Address: 4 Le Duan Boulevard, District 1, HCMC
• Phone: (028) 3520-4200
• Email: ACSHochiminhcity@state.gov

Important: U.S. Embassy and Consulate cannot sponsor visa applications or provide letters of support for visa extensions. They can provide information about Vietnamese immigration procedures but cannot intervene in immigration decisions.

Other Major Embassies in Vietnam:

For procedural guidance and passport services:

• UK Embassy Hanoi: https://www.gov.uk/world/vietnam
• Australian Embassy Hanoi: https://vietnam.embassy.gov.au
• Canadian Embassy Hanoi: https://www.international.gc.ca/country-pays/vietnam/hanoi.aspx

Using Visa Agencies (Optional)

If you choose to use a visa agency for application support, exercise caution:

Agency Services May Include:

• Document preparation and form completion
• Translation services
• Submission to Immigration Office on your behalf
• Follow-up and status tracking

Typical Costs: Agencies charge $100-300 USD per family member for full-service TT visa applications (based on market research, not verified official rates).

Critical Warnings:

• Always verify agency is licensed to operate in Vietnam
• Confirm all information agency provides directly with Immigration Department
• Never pay full fees before receiving approval confirmation
• Be wary of agencies promising “guaranteed approval” or “fast-track” processing that bypasses official procedures
• Get written contract specifying exactly what services are included

Verification: Ask agencies for their business license number and verify with local authorities before engaging services.

Expat Community Resources

Facebook Groups (for practical advice from experienced teachers):

• “English Teachers in Vietnam”
• “Expats in Ho Chi Minh City – Saigon”
• “Expats Living in Hanoi”
• “Teaching English in Vietnam”

Warning: Community advice can be helpful but may be outdated or incorrect. Always verify any information from community sources against official government websites and current immigration regulations before making decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bringing Family to Vietnam

Can I Bring My Parents to Vietnam on a TT Visa?

No, foreign workers cannot sponsor parents for TT visas according to Law No. 51/2019/QH14. Only Vietnamese citizens can sponsor their parents for dependent visas. If you want your parents to visit Vietnam, they must apply for tourist e-visas from the official government portal at evisa.gov.vn, which are valid for up to 90 days and cost $25 USD (single-entry) or $50 USD (multiple-entry). Your parents can exit and re-enter Vietnam on new e-visas for extended visits, but cannot maintain continuous legal residence on tourist visas.

Alternative options for parents:

• 90-day e-visa with periodic exits and re-entries every 3 months (technically legal but not ideal for permanent residence)
• 5-year visa exemption certificate – only available if one parent has Vietnamese citizenship
• Parents cannot apply for work permits or investor visas unless they have legitimate business investments in Vietnam

Can My Family Members Travel to Other Countries While on a TT Visa?

Yes, if your family has multiple-entry TT visas, they can exit and re-enter Vietnam freely during the visa’s validity period. However, if they have single-entry TT visas, they must apply for new TT visas if they leave Vietnam, requiring the complete application process through your employer again. The choice between single-entry and multiple-entry should be specified in your employer’s initial application to Vietnam Immigration Department – confirm which type your employer is requesting.

Practical Recommendation: Always request multiple-entry TT visas even if no immediate travel is planned, because this provides flexibility for:

• Emergency family situations requiring return to home country
• Regional tourism (Thailand, Cambodia, Singapore are popular among expat families)
• Unexpected travel needs

What Happens to My Family’s TT Visa If I Change Jobs in Vietnam?

Your family’s TT visas become invalid when your employment contract ends and your sponsoring work visa expires. When you start a new job, your new employer must sponsor completely new TT visa applications for your family members, requiring the full documentation process again including new Form NA5, updated employer letters, and submission to Immigration Department. There is no “transfer” mechanism for TT visa sponsorship between employers. Processing time follows the same schedule as initial applications – plan for potential gaps in legal status.

Critical Timing Considerations:

1. Secure new job offer before current work visa expires
2. New employer should begin TT visa applications at least 2-3 weeks before current family TT visas expire
3. During employment transition, family may need to temporarily exit Vietnam or switch to tourist visas
4. Coordinate timing carefully to avoid overstay situations

Can My Spouse Get a TT Visa If We Are Not Legally Married?

No, Vietnam immigration law requires a legal marriage certificate issued by government authorities for spouse TT visa applications. Common-law partnerships, domestic partnerships, civil unions, and de facto relationships are not recognized for dependent visa purposes under Law No. 51/2019/QH14. The marriage certificate must be authenticated by Vietnamese consular services with proper legalization. If you are in a committed relationship but not legally married, your partner must apply for their own independent visa (tourist, work, or student visa) and cannot be sponsored as your dependent.

How Long Does the Complete Process Take from Start to Family Arrival?

The complete timeline from starting TT visa preparation to family arrival in Vietnam typically ranges from 3-6 weeks minimum: document preparation and consular legalization (2-3 weeks if done in home country before departure), family members obtaining e-visas (3-5 business days), family arrival in Vietnam, employer submitting TT application to Immigration Department (processing time varies – contact Immigration Office for current timeframes), and receiving TT visa stamps. This assumes no complications or missing documents. Start preparation at least 2 months before desired family arrival date to allow buffer time for unexpected delays.

Recommended Timeline:

• Weeks 1-3: Gather original documents, obtain consular legalization, arrange Vietnamese translation
• Week 4: Family applies for e-visas from evisa.gov.vn
• Week 4-5: Family arrives in Vietnam on e-visas
• Week 5-6: Employer submits TT visa application to Immigration Department
• Week 6-8: Receive TT visa approval and stamps (timeframe varies)

Expedited Option: If family is already in Vietnam on tourist/e-visas, the TT conversion process can begin immediately once all documents are ready.

What If My Child Turns 18 While on a TT Visa?

When your child reaches 18 years old, they are no longer eligible for dependent TT visa status under Law No. 51/2019/QH14. They must transition to an independent visa type before their 18th birthday. Options include converting to a student visa (DH) if enrolled in a Vietnamese university, obtaining their own work permit and labor visa (LD) if employed, or applying for regular tourist visas and exiting Vietnam every 90 days. Begin planning the transition at least 3-6 months before the 18th birthday to ensure smooth conversion without gaps in legal status.

Transition Planning Timeline:

• 6 months before 18th birthday: Research visa options (student, work, or frequent tourist visas)
• 4-5 months before: If pursuing university enrollment, submit applications (Vietnamese universities typically require applications 6+ months before semester start)
• 3-4 months before: If pursuing work permit, begin employer search and application process
• 1-2 months before: Submit new visa application to Immigration Department
• Before 18th birthday: Receive new visa stamp

Important: Coordinate new visa timing with TT visa expiration to avoid any gap in legal status.

Bringing your family to Vietnam requires careful planning, proper documentation, and attention to legal requirements, but thousands of foreign teachers successfully navigate this process each year. Start by verifying your visa eligibility with your employer, prepare your family’s documents for translation and legalization in your home country before departure, and plan for 4-6 weeks minimum for the complete application process.

Important Reminders:

• Use ONLY official government portals for e-visas: evisa.gov.vn or thithucdientu.gov.vn
• Verify current fees and processing times directly with Vietnam Immigration Department before applying
• Complete document legalization at Vietnamese embassy in your home country to save time and money
• Confirm your employer will sponsor TT visas before accepting job offers
• Maintain copies of all documents submitted to Immigration Department

Ready to learn more about family life in Vietnam? Explore comprehensive guides on practical aspects of relocating with dependents:

Visit our Family & Dependents Resource Center for expert guides covering:

• International school selection and enrollment procedures
• Healthcare insurance options for expat families
• Housing in family-friendly neighborhoods
• Temporary Residence Card applications
• Cultural adaptation for spouses and children

Have questions about your specific situation? Vietnam’s immigration regulations contain nuances that may apply to your unique circumstances. For complex cases, consider consulting with licensed immigration attorneys or contacting your embassy in Vietnam for guidance.

Your teaching journey in Vietnam becomes infinitely more rewarding when your loved ones can share the experience. Take the first step today by reviewing your eligibility and gathering the required documentation – your family reunion in Vietnam is achievable with proper preparation and accurate information.