Are you an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business professional seeking new horizons in Southeast Asia? Look no further, as the world of Vietnam Visa Business is about to unfold its secrets. Vietnam, a nation pulsating with economic dynamism, welcomes entrepreneurs and professionals with open arms. In this guide, we will unlock the gateway to success, demystifying the intricacies of Vietnam’s Business Visa.
Vietnam’s economic renaissance
In recent decades, Vietnam has undergone a remarkable transformation from a war-torn nation to an economic powerhouse. Vietnam features a mixed economy and ranks 36th globally in GDP and 26th in Purchasing Power Parity. Its memberships in APEC and ASEAN make it a regional economic hub. As a member of the World Trade Organization, the country offers exciting opportunities for foreign investors and business professionals.
Defining Vietnam business visa
Before we delve into the intricacies of Vietnam Business Visas, let’s establish what they are. A Vietnam Business Visa is for businesspeople and professionals doing business in Vietnam. This visa permits engagement in various commercial activities, such as meetings, negotiations, contracts, seminars, fairs, and exploring investment opportunities.
Unlocking all Vietnam business visa’s types
Now, let’s dive into the heart of this guide: Vietnam Business Visas. These visas, categorized as DN1 and DN2, open doors to business opportunities and professional collaborations.
DN1 Visa
This visa is designed for expatriates working with Vietnamese companies holding valid business licenses. It’s a suitable option for employees and contractors associated with these companies.
DN2 Visa
The DN2 visa is your gateway to Vietnam for various commercial purposes, including providing services, attending meetings, negotiating contracts, or signing agreements. You don’t need to be an employee of a specific company to apply for this visa. Visitors with a DN2 visa cannot work for pay in Vietnam.
Requirements for Vietnam business visa
To secure your Vietnam Business Visa, there are essential requirements to meet:
- Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay, with a minimum of two blank visa pages.
- Photographs: Submit two recent passport-sized photos with a clear, white background. You must have a neutral expression, without glasses or any face obstructions.
- Application Form: Complete the online visa application form, which is available on the Vietnam Immigration Portal. The form must be signed in the lower right corner with blue or black ink.
- Letter of Invitation: Obtain a letter of invitation from a Ministry of Foreign Affairs-approved entity in Vietnam. The organization you intend to visit is responsible for obtaining this invitation on your behalf.
- Business Cover Letter: Present a business cover letter from your U.S based company. This letter should be printed on your company’s letterhead with a U.S. mailing address.
Obtaining Vietnam business visa
You have multiple avenues for obtaining your Vietnam Business Visa:
Visa on Arrival
If you are eligible, the visa-on-arrival process is swift and convenient. Submit your online application, attach the necessary documents, and receive an approval letter. Upon arrival in Vietnam, your passport will be stamped, and your visa will be issued.
Embassy/Consulate
The traditional approach involves applying in person at a Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate in your home country. Your sponsor must acquire a Letter of Sponsorship from Vietnamese Immigration Services, which is a necessary part of your visa application.
Vietnam business visa online
Some nationalities can apply online for a Business Visa through the Vietnam Immigration Portal. However, the validity of an eVisa is limited to 30 days for a single entry.
It’s essential to choose the one that suits your needs. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
Getting a Vietnam business visa on arrival (VOA)
- VOA is a quicker and more convenient option, but it’s only available at certain ports of entry in Vietnam.
- First, you need to obtain a Letter of Approval from the Vietnamese Immigration Department. You can do this online or through authorized travel agencies. This letter will serve as your pre-approval.
- When you arrive in Vietnam, visit the airport’s visa counters and wait for them to stamp your visa into your passport. No Sponsorship or Invitation letter is required for this method.
Getting a Vietnam business visa at an Embassy/Consulate:
- First, you’ll require a sponsor, typically a Vietnamese business or organization, to obtain a Letter of Sponsorship or Letter of Entry Clearance from Vietnamese Immigration Services. This letter should include your full name, nationality, travel dates, visa type (single or multiple-entry), and the specific Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate where you plan to apply.
- The processing time for the Letter of Sponsorship/Letter of Entry Clearance is approximately 5 days. Once issued, your sponsor sends it to you.
- Next, you give your visa application and the Sponsorship/Entry Clearance letter to the Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate. You can typically do this either by mail or in person.
- After approval, the Business Visa will be affixed to your passport, allowing you to enter Vietnam.
Getting a Vietnam business visa online (eVisa):
- Certain countries’ residents can obtain a Business eVisa online via the Vietnam Immigration Portal. This eVisa typically allows a 30-day stay for a single entry. If you want a longer stay, consider different options.
- If you’re applying for a Business eVisa yourself, just choose “Business Activities” and fill out the online form. You’ll need to upload a photo of yourself and a scanned image of your passport, pay the visa fee, and wait for processing.
- Alternatively, the inviting organization or company can apply for your Business eVisa on your behalf. They’ll need to register on the Vietnam Immigration Portal, upload your passport details, photos, and pay the visa fee. Once approved, they’ll provide you with a registration code to print your eVisa for entry into Vietnam.
Do I have an exemption from requiring a Vietnam business visa?
Residents from these countries can visit Vietnam for a short time (14 to 90 days) without needing a visa:
Country | Allowed Stay Duration |
Belarus* | Up to 15 days |
Brunei | Up to 14 days |
Cambodia | Up to 30 days |
Chile | Up to 90 days |
Denmark* | Up to 15 days |
Finland* | Up to 15 days |
France* | 15 days |
Germany* | Up to 15 days |
Indonesia | Up to 30 days |
Italy* | Up to 15 days |
Japan* | Up to 15 days |
Kyrgyzstan | Up to 30 days |
Laos | Up to 30 days |
Malaysia | Up to 30 days |
Myanmar | Up to 14 days |
Norway* | Up to 15 days |
Philippines | Up to 21 days |
Russia* | Up to 15 days |
Singapore | Up to 30 days |
South Korea* | Up to 15 days |
Spain* | Up to 15 days |
Sweden* | Up to 15 days |
Thailand | Up to 30 days |
United Kingdom* | Up to 15 days |
Note: Citizens from countries marked with an asterisk (*) must wait at least 30 days between visits for re-entry into Vietnam.
What are the costs for a Vietnam business visa?
The price of a Vietnam Business Visa can vary depending on how the type of visa you apply:
Vietnam Business Visa On Arrival:
- Single-entry, 1 month: USD 25
- Multiple-entry, 1 month: USD 50
- Single-entry, 3 months: USD 25
- Multiple-entry, 3 months: USD 50
- Multiple-entry, 6 months: USD 95
- Multiple-entry, 12 months: USD 135
Vietnam Business eVisa: USD 25
Vietnam Business Visa at an Embassy/Consulate: The cost varies by the specific Embassy or Consulate.
Don’t forget, you might also have to pay an extra fee to the agency that handles your Letter of Approval application, and this price can differ based on the company you pick.
Visa duration and extension
Vietnam Business Visas are available for 1, 3, 6, or 12 months with single or multiple entries. To extend, visit the closest Immigration Office in Vietnam with an invitation or sponsorship letter from your host company.
Conclusion
Vietnam’s robust economy welcomes entrepreneurs and professionals with a variety of Business Visa options like DN1 and DN2. These visas have certain rules and can be acquired through arrival, embassy applications, or online for eligible nationalities.
Keep in mind possible visa exemptions for short stays, and fees vary based on the visa type and application method. Vietnam Business Visas are flexible, allowing you to choose the duration and entry type. You can even extend them, opening doors to thriving business opportunities in this dynamic nation.