Yes, you can convert your tourist visa to a business visa in Vietnam without leaving the country if you have a sponsoring Vietnamese company. The Immigration Law allows conversion of one visa type to another without having to leave Vietnam for foreigners who are invited or guaranteed by an agency/organization.
This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about converting your tourist visa to a business visa while staying in Vietnam, including requirements, procedures, timelines, and critical success factors.
Key Requirements for Visa Conversion Success
The conversion process requires two essential elements that cannot be bypassed:
- Vietnamese company sponsorship (must be legally registered)
- Valid tourist visa status (not expired or overstayed)
Understanding these requirements upfront saves time and prevents the frustration of rejected applications or being forced to leave Vietnam unnecessarily.
What Are the Exact Requirements for Tourist to Business Visa Conversion?
The conversion requires a sponsoring Vietnamese company, valid passport with 6+ months validity, temporary residence confirmation, and specific application forms submitted to Vietnam Immigration offices. Foreigners wishing to convert must have an inviting/guaranteed company/organization/agency in Vietnam and submit documents at Vietnam Immigration Office headquarters in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City.
Essential Documentation Checklist
Primary Requirements:
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Current tourist visa (not expired)
- Sponsorship letter from Vietnamese company
- Temporary residence confirmation from local police
Company Documentation:
- Business registration certificate, investment certificate, branch operation permit, or representative office certificate
- Company seal specimen (Form NA16)
- Legal representative’s signature registration
Application Forms:
- Form NA5 (visa application/extension)
- Form NA2 (entry application for foreigners)
- Two passport photos (4x6cm, white background)
Understanding Vietnam’s Four Main Work-Related Visa Types
Vietnam offers four distinct visa categories for foreigners conducting business or working in the country. Understanding the differences is essential for choosing the right visa and ensuring legal compliance.
The Complete Visa Landscape
Business Visas (Short-term, No Work Permit Required):
- DN1 and DN2 visas
- Maximum validity: 12 months (typically issued for 3 months)
- Do NOT require work permit
- Cannot be used for formal employment
- Ideal for meetings, negotiations, market research
Work Visas (Long-term Employment, Work Permit Required):
- LĐ1 and LĐ2 visas
- Maximum validity: 2 years
- REQUIRE work permit or work permit exemption certificate
- Designed for formal employment in Vietnam
- Allow receiving salary and long-term residence
The key distinction: Business visas allow business activities but NOT employment. Work visas authorize formal employment with Vietnamese companies.
What Are the Two Types of Business Visas Available?
Vietnam offers DN1 visas for those working with Vietnamese companies and DN2 visas for those providing services or establishing commercial presence under international treaties.
DN1 Business Visa Details
Purpose and Scope:
- Working directly with Vietnamese enterprises
- Business cooperation with locally registered companies
- Attending meetings, conferences, negotiations
- Conducting market research and feasibility studies
- Maximum validity: 12 months (typically issued for 3 months)
- Multiple entry options available
Requirements:
- Sponsorship from Vietnamese employer/partner
- Does NOT require work permit
- Cannot be obtained via e-visa format
- Suitable for business visitors, consultants, advisors
Typical Use Cases:
- Foreign executives visiting Vietnamese subsidiaries
- Consultants providing short-term advisory services
- Business development managers exploring partnerships
- Technical experts conducting training or demonstrations
DN2 Business Visa Details
Purpose and Scope:
- Service provision without direct employment
- Business establishment activities
- Commercial presence development
- Trade activities under international treaties
- Maximum validity: 12 months (typically issued for 3 months)
Key Differences from DN1:
- More flexibility in business activities
- Still requires Vietnamese sponsor
- Suitable for independent service providers
- Focused on treaty-based commercial activities
- Cannot be used for regular employment
Typical Use Cases:
- Independent consultants under trade agreements
- Service providers establishing Vietnam operations
- Foreign business representatives
- Trade negotiators and commercial delegates
Planning to expand your business presence in Vietnam? Understanding visa requirements is just the first step. For comprehensive guidance on business visa types, application procedures, and documentation requirements, explore our detailed resource:
👉 Vietnam Business Visa: Complete Requirements & Application Guide
Navigating Vietnam’s business landscape starts with obtaining the right visa. The Vietnam Business Visa opens doors for international professionals, allowing attendance at meetings, conferences, and exploration of lucrative opportunities. Discover the essential types, requirements, and application processes for this crucial entry permit.
What Are the Two Types of Work Visas Available?
Vietnam offers LĐ1 visas for foreigners exempt from work permit requirements and LĐ2 visas for those who need work permits. Work visas allow stays of up to 2 years and are designed for formal employment relationships with Vietnamese companies.
LĐ1 Work Visa Details
Purpose and Scope:
- For foreigners exempt from work permit requirements
- Issued to those with a work permit exemption certificate
- Formal employment authorization
- Maximum validity: 2 years
- Allows receiving salary from Vietnamese companies
Who Qualifies for Work Permit Exemption:
- Company owners and investors with significant capital contribution (typically over $500,000 USD)
- Board members and directors of Vietnamese companies
- Short-term experts working less than 30 days in Vietnam
- Intra-company transferees meeting specific criteria
- University degree holders in managerial or executive positions with 3+ years experience
Requirements:
- Work permit exemption certificate from Department of Labor
- Vietnamese company sponsorship with employment contract
- Proof of qualifications for exemption category
- Valid passport with 6+ months validity
- Criminal background check (apostilled/notarized)
- Health certificate from approved medical facility
LĐ2 Work Visa Details
Purpose and Scope:
- For foreigners who require regular work permits
- Applicable to most foreign workers in Vietnam
- Full legal authorization to work
- Maximum validity: 2 years (matches work permit duration)
- Standard employment visa category
Requirements:
- Valid work permit issued by Department of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs (DOLISA)
- Employment contract with Vietnamese company
- Vietnamese company sponsorship
- Proof of professional qualifications (university degree)
- Minimum 3 years relevant work experience
- Health certificate and criminal background check
- All documents apostilled/notarized and translated
Key Differences from DN Visas:
| Feature | DN Business Visa | LĐ Work Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Employment Authorization | No | Yes |
| Work Permit Required | No | Yes (or exemption) |
| Maximum Duration | 12 months (typically 3) | 2 years |
| Salary Allowed | No | Yes |
| Conversion to TRC | Difficult | Yes |
| Primary Use | Meetings, negotiations | Full-time employment |
For professionals planning long-term employment in Vietnam, understanding the work permit process is crucial. The Vietnam Work Permits Guide 2025: Legal Requirements & Process provides comprehensive information on eligibility criteria, required documentation, application procedures, and processing timelines to help you navigate this essential requirement successfully.
How Long Does the Conversion Process Take?
The visa conversion process takes 5-7 working days from submission of complete documents to the Vietnam Immigration Department.
Detailed Timeline Breakdown
Week 1: Document Preparation
- Day 1-2: Obtain sponsorship letter from company
- Day 3-4: Gather personal documents and photos
- Day 5: Get temporary residence confirmation from local police
Week 2: Application Submission
- Day 6-7: Submit complete application at Immigration office
- Day 8-12: Immigration Department processing period
- Day 13: Collect new visa (if approved)
Processing Locations
Applications can be submitted at three main Vietnam Immigration offices:
1. Headquarters in Hanoi
- Address: 44-46 Tran Phu Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi
- Working hours: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM (Monday to Saturday morning)
- Best for: Northern Vietnam-based companies
2. Ho Chi Minh City Office
- Address: 333-337 Nguyen Trai Street, Ward 1, District 1
- Working hours: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM (Monday to Friday)
- Best for: Southern Vietnam-based companies
3. Danang Office
- Address: 7 Tran Quy Cap Street, Hai Chau District
- Working hours: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM (Monday to Friday)
- Best for: Central Vietnam-based companies
What Is the Cost of Converting Tourist Visa to Business Visa?
The official government fee for visa conversion ranges from USD 25-50 depending on the visa duration and entry type requested.
Complete Cost Structure
Government Fees:
- 1-month single entry: USD 25
- 3-month single entry: USD 25
- 3-month multiple entry: USD 50
- Extension processing: USD 10
Additional Potential Costs:
- Document notarization: USD 20-50
- Translation services (if needed): USD 30-50
- Agency assistance (optional): USD 100-300
- Temporary residence registration: USD 10
- Passport photos: USD 5-10
- Transportation to Immigration offices: Variable
Who Is Eligible for Visa Conversion?
Eligibility requires being in Vietnam on a valid tourist visa and having a legitimate relationship with a Vietnamese company.
Conversion to Business Visa (DN1/DN2)
Basic Requirements:
- Valid tourist visa (not expired or overstayed)
- Sponsoring Vietnamese company with legal status
- Legitimate business relationship or purpose
- No work permit needed for conversion
- Clean immigration record (no previous violations)
Permitted Activities After Conversion:
- Business meetings and negotiations
- Contract signing and discussions
- Market research and analysis
- Conference and trade fair attendance
- Facility inspections and audits
- Partner evaluations
- NO formal employment or receiving salary
Conversion to Work Visa (LĐ1/LĐ2)
Complex Requirements:
- Valid tourist visa (not expired)
- Sponsoring Vietnamese company
- Work permit OR work permit exemption certificate (must obtain BEFORE visa conversion)
- Signed employment contract
- Proof of professional qualifications
- Health certificate and criminal background check
Important Limitation: Converting from tourist visa to work visa is significantly more complex than converting to business visa because you must obtain a work permit or exemption certificate first. In most cases, foreigners need to exit Vietnam to complete the work permit process before returning with a work visa, making direct conversion while in-country rare and difficult.
Permitted Activities After Conversion:
- Formal employment with Vietnamese company
- Receiving regular salary
- Long-term work (up to 2 years)
- Eligibility to apply for Temporary Residence Card
Ineligibility Factors
Common Disqualifying Conditions:
- Expired or overstayed current visa (any overstay period)
- Criminal record or legal violations in Vietnam
- Previous immigration violations or deportation
- Lack of proper company sponsorship
- No genuine business purpose
- Security concerns or blacklisted status
Comparison Table: All Four Visa Types
| Feature | DN1 Business | DN2 Business | LĐ1 Work | LĐ2 Work |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Purpose | Business meetings, short-term work | Service provision, commercial presence | Employment (permit-exempt) | Employment (requires permit) |
| Work Permit Required | No | No | No (but needs exemption) | Yes |
| Employment Authorization | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Can Receive Salary | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Maximum Duration | 12 months (typically 3) | 12 months (typically 3) | 2 years | 2 years |
| Typical Processing Time | 5-7 days (conversion) | 5-7 days (conversion) | 15-30 days | 15-30 days |
| Conversion to TRC | Very difficult | Very difficult | Yes | Yes |
| Typical Users | Business visitors, consultants | Service providers, treaty workers | Investors, managers, executives | Regular employees, teachers |
| Conversion Difficulty | Moderate | Moderate | High | High |
Common Problems and How to Avoid Rejection
The most common rejection reasons are incomplete documentation, lack of proper sponsorship letter, and incorrect information on application forms.
Top 5 Rejection Reasons
1. Documentation Issues (40% of rejections)
Problems:
- Missing or expired documents
- Unnotarized/untranslated papers
- Incorrect photo specifications (wrong size, colored background)
- Incomplete company documents
- Outdated business licenses
Solutions:
- Use detailed checklist and verify each document twice
- Ensure all documents are within validity period
- Use professional translation services for accuracy
- Take photos at professional studio with correct specifications
- Verify company documents are current (issued within last 6 months)
2. Sponsorship Problems (25% of rejections)
Problems:
- Invalid or “ghost” companies with no real operations
- Incorrect sponsorship letter format
- Missing company registration documents
- Company not authorized to sponsor foreigners
- Inconsistent information between company documents
Solutions:
- Verify company legitimacy through official National Business Registration Portal
- Ensure company has active tax registration
- Confirm company physical address matches registration
- Request sample sponsorship letters from Immigration office
- Have company provide full legal documentation package
3. Information Mismatches (20% of rejections)
Problems:
- Name spelling differences between passport and application
- Passport number errors or transposition
- Date discrepancies (birth date, passport issue/expiry)
- Nationality mistakes
- Inconsistent signatures
Solutions:
- Triple-check all entries against original passport
- Use copy-paste method for passport numbers to avoid typos
- Have second person review application before submission
- Ensure handwriting is clear and legible
- Keep copies of submitted forms for reference
4. Timing Issues (15% of rejections)
Problems:
- Expired tourist visa at time of application
- Previous overstay record (even 1 day)
- Application submitted during visa grace period
- Insufficient time remaining on current visa
- Public holiday closures affecting deadlines
Solutions:
- Apply at least 10-14 days before visa expiry (not just 7 days)
- Never overstay – penalties range from fines to entry bans
- Check Immigration office holiday schedule before applying
- Plan buffer time for unexpected delays
- Consider emergency extension if running close to expiry
5. Missing Temporary Residence Registration (10% of rejections)
Problems:
- No temporary residence confirmation from local police
- Expired or outdated residence confirmation
- Address on residence form doesn’t match company address
- Incomplete residence registration
Solutions:
- Register temporary residence within 24 hours of arrival
- Ensure hotel or landlord completes registration properly
- Keep updated residence confirmation throughout stay
- Verify address details match all other documents
Alternative Options If Conversion Is Not Possible
If you cannot meet conversion requirements, alternatives include exiting Vietnam to apply for a business visa abroad, applying for a business e-visa (limited options), or securing employer sponsorship before arrival.
Option 1: Visa Run Strategy
Process:
- Exit to neighboring country (Cambodia, Thailand, Laos)
- Apply at Vietnamese embassy/consulate
- Obtain sponsorship letter beforehand from Vietnamese company
- Submit application with all required documents
- Wait 3-5 working days for processing
- Return to Vietnam with new business visa
Timeline: 5-7 days total (including travel)
Costs:
- Vietnam embassy visa fee: USD 25-50
- Round-trip flight: USD 100-200
- Accommodation: USD 50-100
- Total estimated: USD 200-400
Best Destinations for Visa Runs:
- Phnom Penh, Cambodia: Closest option from Ho Chi Minh City (6-hour bus)
- Bangkok, Thailand: Well-established process, many daily flights
- Vientiane, Laos: Good option from Hanoi
- Singapore: Professional service, more expensive
Option 2: Business E-Visa Route
Process:
- Apply online at Vietnam e-visa portal
- Upload required documents
- Pay fee online (USD 25)
- Receive e-visa via email within 3 working days
- Print and present at Vietnam airport upon arrival
Limitations:
- Maximum 30 days validity only
- Single entry (cannot exit and re-enter)
- Available to 80+ countries (check eligibility)
- No sponsorship letter required for application
- Cannot convert to longer-term visa while in Vietnam
- Cannot extend – must exit to apply for new visa
Best For:
- Very short business trips (under 30 days)
- Preliminary market research visits
- Emergency business travel
- Countries without nearby Vietnamese embassy
Option 3: Advance Planning Method (Recommended)
Best Practice Approach:
- Secure company sponsorship before traveling to Vietnam
- Have company apply for approval letter/visa sponsorship
- Company submits documents to Immigration Department
- Receive approval within 5-7 working days
- Enter Vietnam directly on business visa at airport or embassy
- No conversion complications or risks
Advantages:
- Avoid conversion complications entirely
- Cheaper overall (no visa run costs)
- More predictable timeline
- Less risk of rejection
- Professional appearance to Vietnamese authorities
Timeline: 7-10 days before travel
For professionals planning extended stays or frequent business travel, understanding long-term residence options is essential. The Vietnam Temporary Residence Card (TRC): Essential Guide explains how to obtain residence cards valid for up to 5 years, eliminating the need for constant visa renewals and providing greater stability for your Vietnam operations.
Step-by-Step Conversion Process Guide
The conversion process involves securing company sponsorship, preparing documents, submitting application at Immigration office, and collecting new visa after 5-7 days processing.
Phase 1: Employer Preparation
Company Actions Required:
- Verify Legal Status:
- Confirm business registration is current and active
- Ensure company is authorized to sponsor foreign nationals
- Verify tax compliance is up to date
- Check company is not under investigation or sanctions
- Prepare Sponsorship Documentation:
- Draft sponsorship letter on company letterhead
- Include all required information (foreigner’s name, passport number, purpose, duration)
- Sign with authorized representative
- Apply company seal/stamp
- Date within 30 days of submission
- Compile Legal Documents:
- Business registration certificate (certified copy)
- Tax registration certificate
- Investment certificate (if applicable)
- Branch operation permit (if applicable)
- Form NA16 (seal and signature specimen) if first-time sponsor
- Prepare Form NA2:
- Complete entry application form for foreigner
- Include detailed work schedule/itinerary
- Specify visa type requested (DN1 or DN2)
- Sign and seal by authorized representative
Your Responsibilities:
- Provide clear passport photo pages to company
- Share complete current visa details
- Discuss and confirm business relationship nature
- Clarify intended duration of stay
- Confirm you meet eligibility requirements
Phase 2: Document Collection
Personal Documents Required:
- Passport and Photos:
- Original passport (not photocopy)
- Minimum 6 months validity remaining
- At least 2 blank pages for visa stamp
- Two color photos (4x6cm, white background)
- Photos taken within last 6 months
- Face must be clearly visible, no glasses/hats
- Current Visa Information:
- Note current visa number
- Record entry date and expiry date
- Photocopy current visa page
- Photocopy entry stamp page
- Temporary Residence Confirmation:
- Visit local police station (ward/commune level)
- Bring passport and current address proof
- Request temporary residence confirmation
- Processing: Usually same day or next day
- Fee: Usually free or small administrative fee
- Form NA5 Completion:
- Download form from Immigration Department website
- Fill out completely in clear handwriting or type
- Include all requested information accurately
- Sign and date
- Do not leave any fields blank (use “N/A” if not applicable)
Processing Timeline:
- Passport photos: 1 day
- Temporary residence: 1-2 days
- Form completion: 1 day
- Total: 2-4 days
Phase 3: Application Submission
At Immigration Office:
- Arrival (8:00-9:00 AM recommended):
- Arrive early to avoid crowds
- Bring all original documents plus copies
- Bring exact payment (USD or VND)
- Queue at appropriate window (check signage)
- Document Submission:
- Submit complete document package
- Officer will review all documents
- Be prepared to answer questions about:
- Purpose of visa conversion
- Nature of business relationship
- Duration of intended stay
- Current residence in Vietnam
- Provide additional documents if requested
- Fee Payment:
- Pay applicable visa fees
- Receive official receipt
- Keep receipt safe (required for visa collection)
- Note collection date on receipt
- Appointment Receipt:
- Receive appointment slip for visa collection
- Note collection date (usually 5-7 working days)
- Note collection time window
- Bring receipt and passport on collection date
Important Tips:
- Dress professionally (shows respect)
- Be polite and patient with officers
- Have all documents organized in folder
- Bring pen for any additional forms
- Have both USD and VND available
Phase 4: Processing Period
What Happens During Processing:
- Document Verification:
- Immigration verifies company legitimacy
- Checks sponsor company registration
- Verifies applicant’s immigration history
- Confirms no outstanding violations
- Security Screening:
- Background check on applicant
- Verification of current visa status
- Check for any red flags or concerns
- Approval Decision:
- Officer reviews complete file
- Makes approval or rejection decision
- Prepares visa sticker if approved
- Final Processing:
- Visa sticker printed
- Entry logged in database
- File prepared for collection
During Waiting Period:
- Keep phone accessible (in case Immigration needs to contact)
- Don’t make travel plans until visa received
- Continue to comply with current visa conditions
- Don’t overstay current visa during processing
- Check online status if available
Phase 5: Visa Collection
Collection Process:
- Required Items to Bring:
- Original receipt from submission
- Original passport
- Photo ID (if passport was submitted)
- Small amount of cash (for any unexpected fees)
- At Immigration Office:
- Go to collection window (check receipt for details)
- Present receipt to officer
- Submit passport if not already submitted
- Wait for officer to retrieve your file
- Receive passport with new visa
- Immediate Verification (CRITICAL):
- Check name spelling matches passport exactly
- Verify passport number is correct
- Confirm visa type is correct (DN1 or DN2)
- Check entry type (single/multiple)
- Verify validity dates (start and end)
- Ensure visa sticker is properly affixed
- If Errors Found:
- Report immediately to officer before leaving
- Do not leave Immigration office with incorrect visa
- Request correction on the spot
- May require additional processing time
After Receiving Visa:
- Make photocopies of new visa immediately
- Store original passport securely
- Update company with new visa details
- Calculate new visa expiry date
- Set reminder for renewal 30 days before expiry
What Business Activities Are Permitted?
Business visa holders can attend meetings, sign contracts, conduct market research, participate in conferences, and engage in business negotiations. However, regular employment requires a work permit and work visa (LĐ).
Permitted Activities List
Business Operations:
- Client meetings and negotiations
- Contract discussions and signing (but not as employee)
- Market research and competitor analysis
- Trade fair and exhibition participation
- Business partnership development and networking
- Supplier/vendor evaluations and audits
- Product demonstrations and presentations
- Business feasibility studies
Professional Activities:
- Conference and seminar attendance
- Industry workshop participation
- Training sessions (as participant or short-term trainer)
- Facility inspections and site visits
- Quality control inspections
- Investment opportunity assessments
- Advisory and consulting services (short-term)
Networking and Development:
- Chamber of commerce events
- Business association meetings
- Networking functions and receptions
- Industry roundtables
- Trade mission participation
Prohibited Activities (Without Work Permit)
Not Allowed on Business Visa:
- Regular employment with fixed schedule
- Signing employment contract as employee
- Receiving monthly salary from Vietnamese company
- Long-term teaching or training positions
- Hands-on technical work requiring daily supervision
- Direct service provision to customers as staff member
- Managing Vietnamese employees as full-time manager
- Operating business as owner/director without proper investor visa
Legal Consequences of Working Illegally:
- Fines: 5,000,000 – 10,000,000 VND (USD 200-400)
- Immediate deportation
- Entry ban: 1-3 years depending on severity
- Company sponsoring may face fines: 20,000,000 – 50,000,000 VND
- Potential criminal charges in serious cases
Red Flags to Avoid
Warning Signs of Problematic Companies:
- “Visa Factory” Operations:
- Company offers visa sponsorship without genuine business relationship
- Requests payment directly for “visa service”
- Has no real business operations or office
- Cannot explain clear business purpose for your visa
- Sponsors dozens of foreigners with no apparent business need
- Financial Red Flags:
- Requests unofficial “processing fees” beyond government rates
- Demands cash payments only (no receipts)
- Promises “guaranteed approval” for extra payment
- Offers illegal expedited processing
- Asks for personal financial information unnecessarily
- Documentation Issues:
- Cannot provide complete company registration documents
- Business license appears outdated or suspicious
- Reluctant to share company seal or authorized signatures
- Provides inconsistent information about company status
- Unable to provide tax registration or payment proof
- Communication Problems:
- Vague or evasive responses to direct questions
- Poor communication or frequently unavailable
- No professional email domain (uses Gmail/Yahoo only)
- Cannot provide clear point of contact person
- Promises unrealistic timelines (“visa in 1 day!”)
- Legal Concerns:
- Suggests working illegally before visa approval
- Recommends overstaying current visa
- Offers to create fake employment documents
- Has history of immigration violations
- Cannot explain sponsorship legally and clearly
If You Encounter Red Flags:
- Stop immediately – do not proceed with application
- Do not make any payments
- Report to Immigration Department if company is committing fraud
- Find legitimate alternative company or agency
- Consult legal professional if already involved with problematic company
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I convert my tourist visa without a job offer or business relationship?
No, conversion requires a legitimate sponsoring Vietnamese company with a genuine business relationship. You cannot simply “buy” visa sponsorship – there must be real business purpose. Companies that offer sponsorship without genuine business activity are engaging in illegal visa fraud.
What’s the difference between business visa and work visa?
Business visas (DN1/DN2) allow short-term business activities like meetings and market research but do NOT provide legal authorization to work or receive salary. Work visas (LĐ1/LĐ2) are issued to individuals who have work permits and are required for foreigners who intend to live and work formally in Vietnam with employment contracts.
Which visa should I choose: DN or LĐ?
Choose DN (Business Visa) if you’re:
- Visiting for meetings, negotiations, conferences
- Conducting short-term consulting without formal employment
- Exploring business opportunities and market research
- Not receiving regular salary from Vietnamese company
- Staying less than 90 days at a time
- Not signing employment contract
Choose LĐ (Work Visa) if you’re:
- Taking a formal job with Vietnamese company
- Receiving regular monthly salary
- Planning to work long-term (6+ months)
- Need to sign employment contract
- Want to apply for Temporary Residence Card
- Relocating family to Vietnam
How many times can I convert my visa type?
Vietnam law doesn’t specify limits on conversions, but each conversion requires meeting all eligibility requirements. Multiple conversions may trigger additional scrutiny from immigration authorities. Frequent conversions (more than 2-3 times per year) may raise questions about your true purpose in Vietnam.
What happens if my application is rejected?
Rejection doesn’t immediately affect your current visa status, but you cannot reapply using the same documents. You have three options:
- Fix and resubmit: Address rejection reasons, correct documents, and submit new application
- Exit and reapply abroad: Leave Vietnam and apply for new visa at embassy
- Accept and depart: If rejection is final, exit Vietnam before current visa expires
Rejection reasons are usually provided in writing. Common reasons include incomplete documentation, invalid sponsorship, or inconsistent information.
Can I work while my conversion application is processing?
No – you should not begin work activities until your business visa is approved and received. Tourist visas don’t permit work or business activities. Working on a tourist visa, even if you have an application pending, is illegal and can result in:
- Fines and penalties
- Application rejection
- Immediate deportation
- Entry ban
Wait until you physically have the approved business or work visa before conducting any work activities.
Is it easier to convert to business e-visa?
No, business e-visas cannot be obtained through conversion while in Vietnam. The e-visa system is only for foreigners outside Vietnam applying for entry. You cannot:
- Convert tourist visa to e-visa while in Vietnam
- Extend e-visa while in Vietnam
- Change e-visa type while in Vietnam
E-visas are single-purpose, 30-day maximum, and cannot be modified. If you want different visa type, you must exit and reapply.
Can I convert tourist visa to work visa (LĐ)?
Technically yes, but it’s very difficult and rare. You must first obtain a work permit or work permit exemption certificate, which typically requires exiting Vietnam for document processing. The process includes:
- Company applies for work permit approval (15-20 days)
- You exit Vietnam to get criminal background check apostilled
- Return with required documents
- Submit work permit application (15-20 days processing)
- After receiving work permit, apply for visa conversion
Most experts recommend: Enter Vietnam directly on a work visa if you plan long-term employment rather than attempting conversion from tourist visa.
Do I need a work permit for business visa?
No. Business visas (DN1/DN2) do NOT require work permits. However, you cannot engage in regular employment without a work permit. Business visas are for:
- Meetings and negotiations
- Short-term consulting
- Market research
- Conference attendance
If you want to work full-time, receive salary, or sign employment contract, you need work visa (LĐ) which requires work permit.
Can I bring my family on my business visa?
Your business visa only covers you personally. If your family wants to join you in Vietnam, they need separate visas:
- Spouse/children: Can apply for TT (family visit) visa sponsored by you
- Duration: Usually same as your visa duration
- Requirements: Marriage certificate, birth certificates (translated and notarized)
- They cannot work: Family members on TT visa cannot work in Vietnam
If planning long-term stay with family, work visa and Temporary Residence Card provide better options for family members.
What if my visa expires while waiting for conversion approval?
This is why timing is critical. If your tourist visa expires during processing:
- Your application may be rejected
- You may be required to pay overstay fine: 500,000 – 2,000,000 VND per day
- You could face deportation
Solutions:
- Apply early (14-21 days before expiry)
- If cutting close, apply for emergency visa extension first
- Consider exiting and returning rather than risking overstay
- Never let your visa expire – consequences are severe
Can I convert business visa to work visa without leaving?
Yes, this is possible if you already have a work permit or exemption certificate. The process:
- Obtain work permit first (required step)
- Gather all LĐ visa requirements
- Submit conversion application
- Processing: 5-7 days
- Collect new work visa
However, getting the work permit while on business visa is the challenging part, as many requirements (criminal background check, document authentication) typically require exiting Vietnam.
Converting your tourist visa to a business visa in Vietnam is legally possible and can be completed in 5-7 working days, provided you meet the requirements of company sponsorship.
IMPORTANT LEGAL DISCLAIMER
This guide provides general information about visa conversion procedures in Vietnam as of 2025. Immigration laws, requirements, and procedures may change without notice. The information presented here is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice.
