Vietnam visa types for foreigners [Summary]

Are you planning to visit Vietnam for travel or work? Understanding the various Vietnam visa types for foreigners is the first and most important step to ensure a smooth trip. According to current regulations, Vietnam visas are classified into more than 20 different symbols based on the specific purpose of entry. Below is the detailed information you need to know regarding these categories.

1. Electronic Visa (E-visa) - Symbol: EV

• Target: Citizens of all countries and territories.

• Validity: Maximum of 90 days.

• Format: Single or multiple entry.

• Purpose: Tourism, family visits, short-term commercial purposes.

The E-visa is the top preferred choice with a 100% online registration process. With a validity of up to 90 days and allowing multiple entries, this visa type flexibly meets needs ranging from tourism and family visits to short-term market research without requiring a complex sponsorship process.

Electronic Visa (E-visa) (Source: Internet)

2. Tourist Visa - Symbol: DL

• Validity: Not exceeding 3 months.

• Note: If you enter under an E-visa for tourism purposes, the validity will follow the E-visa (90 days).

This visa is specifically for foreigners entering Vietnam for sightseeing and entertainment. Currently, many tourists prefer using an E-visa for tourism purposes to have a longer stay.

Tourist Visa (Source: Internet)

3. Business Visa - Symbols: DN1, DN2

• DN1: Issued to people working with businesses that have legal entity status.

• DN2: Issued to people entering to offer services or establish a commercial presence.
  Validity: Maximum of 12 months.

Business visas are granted to foreigners working with businesses or organizations with legal status in Vietnam. This visa is suitable for signing contracts, attending conferences, or conducting market research.

Important Note: A Business Visa (DN) is not a Work Permit. Therefore, foreign nationals are not permitted to work directly on a long-term basis or receive a salary in Vietnam without a valid Work Permit or an appropriate Temporary Residence Card (TRC) as prescribed by law.

Business Visa (Source: Internet)

4. Labor Visa - Symbols: LĐ1, LĐ2

• LĐ1: Issued to those with confirmation of not being subject to a work permit.

• LĐ2: Issued to those who must have a work permit.

• Validity: Maximum of 2 years. Labor visa holders can apply for a Temporary Residence Card (TRC) for the same duration.

This is for experts or technical workers coming for long-term work. A required condition is having a Work Permit or a work permit exemption certificate.

In particular, the LD1 Visa is issued to foreigners who are exempt from a Work Permit. Meanwhile, the LD2 Visa is granted to foreigners who are required to hold a Work Permit in accordance with regulations.

Labor Visa (Source: Internet)

5. Investment Visa - Symbols: ĐT1, ĐT2, ĐT3, ĐT4

• ĐT1: For capital contribution of over 100 billion VND. Maximum validity of 5 years (TRC can be up to 10 years).

• ĐT2: Contribution from 50 billion to under 100 billion VND. Maximum validity of 5 years.

• ĐT3: Contribution from 3 billion to under 50 billion VND. Maximum validity of 3 years.

• ĐT4: Contribution under 3 billion VND. Maximum validity of 12 months.

The duration is proportional to the amount of contributed capital. Large investors (ĐT1, ĐT2) can be granted Temporary Residence Cards for up to 10 years.

Investment Visa (Source: Internet)

6. Family Visit Visa - Symbols: TT, VR

• TT Visa: Issued to foreigners who are spouses or children under 18 of foreigners holding LĐ or ĐT visas... or relatives of Vietnamese citizens. Maximum validity of 12 months.

• VR Visa: Issued to people visiting relatives or for other private purposes. Maximum validity of 6 months.

Family Visit Visas are issued to foreigners who are spouses or children of Vietnamese citizens or of foreigners working officially in Vietnam. The maximum validity is 12 months, facilitating family reunification and stable residency.

Family Visit Visa (Source: Internet)

Understanding different Vietnam visa types for foreigners is more than just a formality; it is a thoughtful preparation for your upcoming journey. We hope these insights help your path become smoother and more complete. Vietnam is always ready to welcome you with the most authentic and warm experiences.