Vietnam Business Visas: Requirements & Application Processes

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 is a Vietnam Business Visa and Its Purpose?

A Vietnam business visa is specifically for individuals who want to enter Vietnam for business-related purposes—whether it’s attending meetings, signing contracts, or exploring new business opportunities. Unlike a tourist visa, which is for those visiting Vietnam for leisure or sightseeing, the business visa allows you to engage in official, professional activities. Essentially, if your trip involves anything work-related but you’re not planning to take up full-time employment, this is the visa you’ll need.

What Types of Vietnam Business Visas Are Available?

There are two main types of business visas for Vietnam, categorized based on the purpose of the visit.

How Does a DN1 Visa Work?

Visa DN1: This visa is for those who are working with legal entities or companies that are registered under Vietnamese law. If you’re partnering with a company based in Vietnam or have some kind of professional collaboration with them, this is the visa you’ll likely apply for.

What is a DN2 Visa?

Visa DN2: This type of visa is for those who are invited by foreign organizations operating in Vietnam. If you’re part of an international company or organization that’s doing business in Vietnam, this is the one you’ll need.

How to Interpret Visa Symbols and Durations?

Each business visa type is assigned a specific symbol, either DN1 or DN2, and comes with a certain validity period. Depending on the visa you get, it can be valid for anywhere from one month to three months, and it can be issued for either single-entry or multiple entries.

• Single-entry means you can only enter Vietnam once during the visa’s validity. If you leave, you’ll need a new visa to return.
• Multiple-entry means you can enter and exit Vietnam as many times as you like within the validity period.

So, depending on how long you plan to stay and whether or not you need to travel in and out of Vietnam, you’ll choose between these options.

Eligibility and Requirements

Who Can Apply for a Vietnam Business Visa?

If you’re planning to visit Vietnam for business purposes-like attending meetings, conferences, or even exploring potential business opportunities-you can apply for a business visa. This type of visa is available to foreign nationals who are invited by a company or organization based in Vietnam. 

Whether you’re working with a local Vietnamese business or representing a foreign organization with operations in Vietnam, you’re eligible to apply. The key is that your visit needs to involve some professional activity.

However, to apply for a Vietnam business visa (DN visa), foreign nationals must meet all of the following conditions:

• Not be subject to any entry restrictions into Vietnam.
• Have a sponsoring company that is active and legally operating in Vietnam.
• Hold a valid passport that is valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Vietnam, with at least two blank pages remaining.

What Documents Are Required?

To apply for a Vietnam business visa, there are two main sets of documents you’ll need: one from you (the applicant) and one from the inviting or sponsoring company.

Documents for the Applicant:

• Passport: Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay, with at least two blank pages for the visa.
• Visa application form: You’ll need to fill out a visa application form, which you can typically find online or at the embassy/consulate.
• Passport-sized photos: A 4x6cm (2×2 inch) portrait photo with a white background, clearly showing your face and facial features, no glasses, taken within the last six months prior to the application submission date.
• Invitation letter: This is an official invitation from the company or organization in Vietnam stating the purpose of your visit and confirming they’re expecting you.
• Proof of business relationship: This could be a contract, business agreement, or any other documentation that shows you have legitimate business with the inviting company.

Documents for the Sponsoring or Inviting Company:

• Business registration certificate: The company or organization inviting you needs to provide proof that they’re a legitimate business entity registered in Vietnam.
• Invitation letter: This should be a formal document, stating the reason for your visit, your job title, and how long you’ll be staying in Vietnam. The company guarantees your activities while you’re in the country.

Which Nationalities Are Exempt from Vietnam Business Visas?

The good news is that not everyone needs a business visa to enter Vietnam! Depending on your nationality, you might be eligible for a visa exemption, which means you can visit Vietnam for a limited time without needing a visa. However, this is only for short visits and may not apply if you’re staying for an extended business trip.

Some foreign nationals are exempt from Vietnam business/work visas. Specifically:

How to Apply for a Vietnam Business Visa

How to Apply for a Business Visa at Embassy/Consulate?

To apply for a Vietnam business visa this way, the foreign applicant will need to visit the office of the Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate to get the visa stamp. The process for obtaining this type of business visa is as follows:

Step 1: Apply for an Entry Approval Letter: The sponsoring company in Vietnam will prepare the following documents and submit them to the Vietnam Immigration Department to request an entry approval letter:

• A photocopy of the foreigner’s passport who needs the visa.
• A certified copy of the sponsoring company’s business registration.
• NA2 Form for requesting entry for the foreigner.
• NA16 Form.
• Any other documents as required by the Immigration Department.
• The processing time for the entry approval letter is approximately 5 to 7 working days from the date the Immigration Department receives a complete and valid application.

If the entry approval application is approved, the Immigration Department will:

• Issue the entry approval letter to the sponsoring company.
• Fax the approval letter for the visa stamp to the registered Embassy/Consulate office.

Step 2: Prepare the Documents for the Visa Stamp: The sponsoring company will send the entry approval letter to the foreigner. The foreigner will then print this letter and prepare the following documents to apply for the visa stamp:

• Visa application form as required.
• Original passport.
• Your passport photo.
• Visa stamping fee (varies by Embassy/Consulate).
• Any other documents requested by the Embassy/Consulate.

Step 3: Obtain the Visa Stamp: The foreigner will submit the required documents in person or send them by mail to the registered Embassy/Consulate, depending on their policies. Once the visa is granted, the visa stamp will be affixed to the foreigner’s passport, allowing them to enter Vietnam and work at the sponsoring company.

Applying for a Business Visa Issued at Vietnamese Airports

The process for applying for a business visa at the airport is quite similar to the procedure for obtaining a visa at the Embassy. However, instead of getting the visa stamp at the Embassy, the foreigner will receive the stamp upon entering Vietnam for work or business. The procedure for this airport visa includes three steps:

Step 1: Request an Entry Approval Letter: The sponsoring company in Vietnam will submit an application for the entry approval letter to the Vietnam Immigration Department and send the result as a PDF file to the foreigner preparing to enter the country.

Step 2: Prepare Documents for the Visa Stamp:

The foreigner will need to prepare the following:

• A printed copy of the entry approval letter.
• A completed visa application form, with all information filled out, signed, and with a photo attached as required.
• The original passport.
• Visa stamping fees:
• Approximately $25 for a single-entry visa.
• Approximately $50 for a multiple-entry visa valid for up to three months.

Step 3: Obtain the Visa Stamp at the Airport: Upon arriving at a Vietnamese airport, the foreigner will go to the visa counter and present the required documents to the Immigration Officer. After paying the stamping fee, the visa (DN1/DN2) will be affixed to the passport, completing the entry process into Vietnam.

How to Apply for a Business E-Visa Online?

With this visa type, foreigners cannot convert it into a temporary residence card. Therefore, if someone wants to work long-term in Vietnam, it is advisable to apply for a work permit and a temporary residence card, as the e-business visa is not a recommended option. Foreigners can apply for the e-business visa themselves or have a sponsoring company assist them.

Additionally, the sponsoring company can also apply for the visa on behalf of the foreigner for entry into Vietnam. The specific steps are as follows:

► If the Foreigner Applies for the E-Business Visa Independently:

1. To apply for an e-business visa online, the foreigner should complete the application form on the Vietnam Immigration Department’s e-visa portal and select English as the language for easier navigation. When reaching the purpose section, they should choose “Business Activities.”
2. Then, the foreigner needs to upload a clear passport photo and portrait without shadows, pay the visa fee of $25, and wait for the results. If the application is approved, the foreigner can check the visa status to download it for entry into Vietnam.

► If the Inviting/Sponsoring Entity Applies for the E-Business Visa on Behalf of the Guest:

1. If the inviting or sponsoring company is applying for the e-business visa for the guest, the company will need to register for an account on the e-visa portal according to regulations.
2. Next, the company should complete the application form and upload the foreigner’s passport photo and portrait as required.
3. If the visa is granted, the company will download the visa and send it to the foreigner, who can then print it out for entry into Vietnam.
4. The processing time for e-visa applications typically takes about 3 working days, but it may take longer depending on the volume of applications received by the Immigration Department.
5. If applicants find the e-business visa application process complicated or urgent, they should contact Vietnam Booking immediately. We can help you obtain your visa quickly, within 1-2 working days.

Duration and Types of Vietnam Business Visas

How Does a One-Month Single-Entry Business Visa Work?

This visa allows you to enter Vietnam once and stay for up to 30 days. After you leave, you would need to apply for a new visa if you want to return. It’s a great option if you’re planning a short-term business trip without needing to exit and re-enter the country.

What is a One-Month Multi-Entry Business Visa?

With the one-month multiple-entry visa, you can come and go from Vietnam as many times as you need within the 30-day period. It’s ideal if your business activities require you to travel in and out of the country frequently during that month.

When to Choose a Three-Month Single-Entry Business Visa?

If your business in Vietnam requires a longer stay, the three-month single-entry visa gives you up to 90 days in the country. However, like the one-month single-entry visa, once you leave, the visa becomes invalid, and you’ll need a new one to re-enter.

Who Needs a Three-Month Multi-Entry Business Visa?

This visa is the most flexible, allowing multiple entries into Vietnam for a period of 90 days. It’s perfect for business professionals who need to enter and exit Vietnam multiple times over the course of three months.

Visa Extension Process

In addition to the process for obtaining a business visa for foreigners in Vietnam, Vietnamese immigration law also allows for the extension of business visas for foreigners already in the country. If you want to extend your business visa, here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Prepare the required documents for the visa extension:

• Legal documents of the sponsoring company or business, including the business registration certificate and the seal usage certificate.
• Original passport of the foreigner, valid for at least six months (this serves as a form of identification for the foreign citizen).
• Visa extension application form, which must be completed according to the format provided by Vietnamese law.
• Investment certificate or documents confirming the capital contribution if the foreigner is applying for DT visas 1, 2, 3, or 4.
• Temporary residence confirmation from the local police where the foreigner is staying in Vietnam, or a printout of the online temporary residence application.

Step 2: Submit the visa extension application for the foreigner to the Immigration Department or the Provincial Immigration Office.

Step 3: Pay the visa extension fee for the foreigner (10 USD).

Step 4: Wait for the results. The processing time for the visa extension application is no more than five working days from the date the authorities receive a valid extension application.

Processing Time and Fees

How Long Does Vietnam Business Visa Processing Take?

What Are the Fee Structures?

The cost of a Vietnam business visa depends on the application method. Specifically:

1. Fees for business visas issued at the airport include: Entry approval letter fee and Stamping fees:

• One-month single-entry: Around 25 USD.
• One-month multiple-entry: Around 50 USD.
• Three-month single-entry: Around 25 USD.
• Three-month multiple-entry: Around 50 USD.

2. E-visa business fee: Around 25 USD.

3. Fees for business visas issued at the Embassy/Consulate include:

• Entry approval letter fee.
• Stamping fees: As per the regulations of the Vietnam Embassy/Consulate.

Working in Vietnam with a Business Visa

What Are the Limitations of Business Visas?

While a business visa allows you to engage in certain work-related activities, it’s important to note that it does not grant you the right to work for a Vietnamese company in a traditional employment capacity. Essentially, a business visa is meant for individuals participating in business meetings, attending conferences, or conducting market research. If your goal is to take up a permanent position with a local company or engage in hands-on work, you’ll need to obtain a work permit, which requires a different set of procedures and documentation.

Moreover, business visas typically have a limited validity period. Depending on the type you obtain, it could be valid for 30 days to 90 days and may allow for single or multiple entries. Once your business visa expires, you must leave the country or apply for an extension in advance, as overstaying can result in fines or complications for future travel.

What Additional Requirements Are Needed for Employment?

If you’re looking to work in Vietnam beyond the scope of a business visa, you’ll need to secure a work permit. To apply for a work permit, you typically need the following documents:

• Sponsorship Letter: A letter from a Vietnamese employer confirming your employment. This letter should outline your position, job responsibilities, and the duration of your employment.
• Health Certificate: A medical certificate proving that you are in good health and free from communicable diseases. This usually needs to be issued by a recognized medical institution.
• Criminal Background Check: A police clearance certificate from your home country indicating that you have no criminal record. This document must be translated into Vietnamese and notarized.
• Educational and Professional Qualifications: Copies of your academic degrees or professional certifications, along with a translation into Vietnamese, if necessary. These documents will demonstrate that you have the required skills and qualifications for the position.
• Visa Validity: Ensure that your business visa is valid throughout the application process for the work permit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a Sponsorship Letter and When is It Required?

A sponsorship letter is an official document provided by a Vietnamese company or organization, stating that they are inviting you to conduct business activities in Vietnam. This letter typically includes details such as the purpose of your visit, the duration of your stay, and the company’s contact information.

When Do You Need One? You need a sponsorship letter when applying for a business visa to Vietnam. It serves as proof that you have a legitimate reason for entering the country for business purposes. If you are attending meetings, conferences, or signing contracts, this letter is essential to support your visa application and ensure compliance with Vietnamese immigration regulations.

Can You Work in Vietnam on a Business Visa?

While a business visa allows you to engage in various business activities such as attending meetings and signing contracts, it does not permit you to work for a Vietnamese company or take up employment in Vietnam.

Is It Possible to Get a Vietnam Business Visa Without a Sponsor?

In general, obtaining a business visa without a sponsor is challenging and not recommended. The Vietnamese government typically requires a sponsorship letter from a Vietnamese company to approve your business visa application.

How Does a Vietnam Business Visa Differ from a Tourist Visa?

A business visa is designed for people who want to visit Vietnam for work-related activities. This could include attending meetings, conferences, or negotiating contracts with Vietnamese companies. Business visas usually allow for a longer stay, sometimes up to 90 days, and can be valid for multiple entries, meaning you can go in and out of the country several times during that period. To get a business visa, you often need a sponsorship letter from a Vietnamese company, which shows that you have a legitimate reason to be in the country for business.

On the other hand, a tourist visa is for those who want to travel to Vietnam for leisure and sightseeing. This type of visa is typically shorter, lasting up to 30 days, and is often issued for a single entry or sometimes multiple entries. The requirements for a tourist visa are usually simpler; you generally don’t need a sponsorship letter, just basic travel documents and payment for the visa fee.

In conclusion, the Vietnam Business Visa is an important tool for anyone looking to engage in business activities in Vietnam. Whether you are attending meetings or exploring new markets, having the right visa will help you make the most of your time in this beautiful country. Remember to check the requirements and plan ahead, so you can focus on building your business connections in Vietnam!