Vietnam business visa – Application – Extension- Fees 2024

This comprehensive guide provides detailed information about the Vietnam business visa for foreigners. It covers the conditions for applying, required documentation, the visa application process, associated fees, and conditions for extending long-term stays in Vietnam. As per Vietnam’s entry regulations, foreigners seeking to work, conduct business, invest, attend meetings, or sign contracts with enterprises or companies in Vietnam are required to obtain a Vietnam commercial visa. Let’s find out with AZTAX.

1. What is a Vietnam business visa?

A commercial visa is a specific type of visa granted to foreign nationals entering a country with the intent of investing, expanding business operations, or engaging in commercial cooperation. In accordance with Vietnamese laws, the duration of a commercial visa can range from 1 month to 1 year, with single or multiple entries permitted. Commercial visas in Vietnam are denoted by the symbols DN or ĐT, depending on the purpose of the foreign national’s visa application for entry into Vietnam.

A visa, also known as a travel permit, is an official document issued by the authorized agencies of Vietnam, allowing foreign nationals to enter Vietnam (as per the regulations of the Law on Entry, Exit, Transit, and Residence of Foreigners in Vietnam). Thus, a visa serves as a confirmation that an individual is authorized to enter or exit a country, in this case, Vietnam.

The distinctive features of commercial visas in Vietnam include:

• Purpose and Duration: Commercial visas are specifically designed for individuals with intentions of investment, business expansion, or trade collaboration. The duration can vary from 1 month to 1 year, offering flexibility based on the nature of the commercial activities.
• Multiple Entry Options: Depending on the specific needs of the visa applicant, a commercial visa can be issued for either a single entry or multiple entries. This flexibility accommodates individuals engaged in ongoing business relationships or frequent visits.
• Designation: Commercial visas in Vietnam are marked with the symbols DN or ĐT, reflecting the diverse purposes for which foreign nationals seek entry.

In essence, a commercial visa is not just a travel document; it is a gateway for foreign investors, entrepreneurs, and business collaborators to contribute to Vietnam’s economic landscape. The issuance of such visas is governed by the laws and regulations of Vietnam, ensuring a systematic and transparent process for individuals involved in commercial ventures. Understanding the nuances of commercial visas is crucial for foreign nationals navigating the dynamic landscape of business and investment in Vietnam.

2. How to get Vietnam business visa

Currently, there are three methods to apply for a business visa to Vietnam:

• Applying for a visa at the Vietnamese Embassy/Consulate abroad.
• Applying for a visa on arrival at the airport.
• Applying for an electronic business visa (e-visa).

Before delving into the detailed steps of each procedure, let’s quickly compare these three methods with Vietnam-visa.

2.1 Business Visa at Embassy/Consulate

Step 1: Prepare Documents

By Applicants:

• Passport with a minimum 6-month validity and one blank visa page
• Passport-size photo (4x6cm) taken within 6 months (white background, no glasses)
• Work permit or work permit exemption
• Invitation letter/Sponsor letter from Vietnamese enterprise

By Inviting/Guaranteeing Enterprise:

• Notarized copy of business registration certificate
• Entry application for foreigners (Form NA2)
• Vietnam visa application form (Form NA5)
• Sample of seal and signature (Form NA16)

Step 2: Submit Documents

• Applicants submit required documents to the Vietnam Embassy/Consulate or Immigration offices in Vietnam.

Step 3: Pay Fee and Wait for Results

• Visa application fees range from USD25 to 50.
• Processing time is 3 – 5 working days.
• Once approved, applicants will receive an entry invitation letter.

2.2 Vietnam business visa on arrival

Document Requirements

• Pre-approved visa letter from a Vietnamese agency
• Passport with minimum 6-month validity
• Visa application form
• 2 passport-size photos
• Work permit or work permit exemption
• Invitation letter from Vietnamese enterprise

Application Process

Step 1-3: Apply for a pre-approved visa letter.

Step 3: Present the approval letter, visa application form, and required documents at designated airports.

• Stamping fees are paid in cash.

2.3 Business Visa Online (E-Visa)

Step 1: Prepare Documents

• Passport with six months of validity
• Photo of passport data page
• Passport-size photo (4x6cm) taken within 6 months
• Temporary residential address in Vietnam
• Valid international credit or debit card
• Date of entry/exit and ports
• Valid email address
• Invitation letter from Vietnamese enterprise

Step 2: Submit Application

• Access the Vietnam E-visa website, fill in the required information, and choose “Business Activities.”

Step 3: Pay Fee and Wait for Results

• The fee is USD25 for a 1-month single entry business visa.

Step 4: Get the Visa

• Check the results on the official website using the registration code. Download the E-visa, print it, and present it at entry checkpoints in Vietnam.

3. How to extend a business visa?

To extend your Vietnam business visa, follow these four steps:

Step 1: Prepare Documents

• Invitation letter/Sponsor letter from Vietnamese enterprise
• Legal documents for sponsor/guaranteeing enterprises (business license, certificate of seal)
• Passport with a validity of at least 6 months upon the extension time
• Application form for visa issuance, stay extension (NA5)
• Temporary residence confirmation issued by the local police or a hard copy of the online temporary residence confirmation

Step 2: Submit Documents at Vietnam Immigration Office

• Submit all documents at one of three Vietnam Immigration offices (Hanoi, Danang, and Ho Chi Minh City) or the Immigration Office in your residing province.

Step 3: Pay Fee and Wait for the Result

• The fee for the business visa extension is USD10.
• The process will take around 5 working days from the Immigration Department’s receipt of the valid application and full payment.

Step 4: Get the Visa Extension

• If your application is approved, schedule an appointment to return to the Immigration Office and receive the visa extension.

4. Who is exempted from the Vietnam business visa?

Currently, certain foreign visitors are eligible for visa exemptions for business purposes in Vietnam. Specifically, they include:

• Belarus (up to 15 days exempt)
• Brunei (up to 14 days exempt)
• Cambodia (up to 30 days exempt)
• Chile (up to 90 days exempt)
• Denmark (up to 15 days exempt)
• Finland (up to 15 days exempt)
• France (up to 15 days exempt)
• Germany (up to 15 days exempt)
• Indonesia (up to 30 days exempt)
• Italy (up to 15 days exempt)
• Japan (up to 15 days exempt)
• Kyrgyzstan (up to 30 days exempt)
• Laos (up to 30 days exempt)
• Malaysia (up to 30 days exempt)
• Myanmar (up to 14 days exempt)
• Norway (up to 15 days exempt)
• Philippines (up to 21 days exempt)
• Panama (up to 90 days exempt)
• Russia (up to 15 days exempt)
• Singapore (up to 30 days exempt)
• South Korea (up to 15 days exempt)
• Spain (up to 15 days exempt)
• Sweden (up to 15 days exempt)
• Thailand (up to 30 days exempt)
• United Kingdom (excluding BNO) (up to 15 days exempt)
• APEC Business Travel Card holders (up to 90 days exempt)

5. Vietnam business visa requirements

To apply for a business visa in Vietnam (Vietnam business visa), foreign nationals must ensure they meet all the following conditions:

• Not subject to entry restrictions for Vietnam.
• Have a sponsoring company that is legally registered and operating in Vietnam.
• Possess a valid passport with at least 6 months validity from the date of entry into Vietnam and at least 2 blank pages.
• Provide a complete set of required documents, including:
  • A fully filled and signed application form for the Vietnam business visa.
  • Passport-sized photos (4x6cm or 2×2 inches) with a white background, clearly showing the face and facial features, without glasses, taken within the last 6 months from the date of submitting the application.

6. Business visa duration in Vietnam

Currently, there are four types of business visas for Vietnam:

• One-month single-entry business visa.
• One-month multi-entry business visa.
• Three-month single-entry business visa.
• Three-month multi-entry business visa.

The one-year multiple-entry business visa for U.S. citizens is not currently being issued.

7. Vietnam business visa fees

Vietnamese business visa prices depend on the application method. Specifically:

Vietnam business visa fees on arrival at the airport include:

• Visa approval letter fee and Visa stamping fee:
  • One-month single-entry: 25 USD
  • One-month multiple-entry: 50 USD
  • Three-month single-entry: 25 USD
  • Three-month multiple-entry: 50 USD

E-visa fee: 25 USD

Vietnam business visa costs obtained at the embassy/consulate include:

• Visa approval letter fee, and
• Visa stamping fee: as per the regulations of the Vietnamese embassy/consulate.

Vietnam business visa fee when using AZTAX service

Note: The provided fee is an all-inclusive amount for a 30-day tourist visa, covering both the Government fee and service fee.

8. Types of visas for entry to Vietnam

To facilitate work and extended stays in Vietnam, foreigners have various visa options tailored to their specific needs. Key visa types include:

With LV1, LV2, LS, DT1, DT2, DT3, NN1, NN2, DH, PV1, LD1, LD2, and TT visas, foreigners can apply for a temporary residence card within 02 – 10 years depending on the visa type.

9. Conclusion

Obtaining a business visa for Vietnam involves nuanced considerations. The necessity of a sponsorship letter, permissible activities under this visa, and the potential inclusion of family members all play significant roles. It’s crucial to adhere to the legal processes outlined by Vietnamese authorities to ensure a smooth and compliant application.

Whether you are venturing into Vietnam for contractual engagements, exploring business opportunities, or attending conferences, understanding the intricacies of the business visa application process is key. While a business visa allows for temporary work, those considering long-term residence should explore obtaining a work permit.

Additionally, it’s essential to be cautious when seeking third-party sponsorship services, as these may not align with the legal requirements for entry into Vietnam.

In summary, a business visa serves as a gateway for various professional activities in Vietnam. By being well-informed and adhering to the stipulated procedures, individuals can navigate the application process with confidence, ensuring a successful and compliant entry into the vibrant business landscape of Vietnam.

Hopefully with the above content, you can understand more about Vietnam visa business, as well as apply for a Vietnam business visa yourself to meet the requirements when doing business in Vietnam.

10. Frequently Asked Questions