As Vietnam’s economy continues to expand rapidly, the demand for foreign investors, executives, and business travelers entering the market has grown stronger than ever. Understanding the legal framework, requirements, and application process for a Vietnam business visa is essential for anyone seeking to conduct professional or commercial activities in the country.
This detailed guide explains everything you need to know about applying for a Vietnam business visa, its requirements, procedures, and recent regulatory updates for 2026.
What Is a Vietnam Business Visa?
A Vietnam business visa (symbol DN) permits foreign nationals to enter Vietnam for business-related purposes, such as:
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Attending meetings, conferences, or trade events
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Exploring investment or partnership opportunities
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Conducting market research or business negotiations
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Establishing a representative office or commercial presence
Types of Business Visas
According to the amended Law on Entry, Exit, Transit, and Residence of Foreigners (effective July 1, 2020):
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DN1 Visa: Issued to foreigners working with enterprises or organizations legally registered in Vietnam.
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DN2 Visa: Granted to foreigners entering Vietnam to provide services, establish a commercial presence, or perform activities under international treaties to which Vietnam is a signatory.
Duration and Validity
A business visa may be issued for up to 12 months, depending on the sponsor’s legal status and the applicant’s intended stay.
Legal foundations:
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Law No. 47/2014/QH13
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Law No. 51/2019/QH14
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Law No. 23/2023/QH15
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Circular No. 25/2021/TT-BTC
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Circular No. 22/2023/TT-BCA
Requirements for a Vietnam Business Visa
Eligibility Conditions
To qualify for a business visa, applicants must:
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Possess a valid passport or international travel document (minimum validity of 6 months).
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Have a sponsoring company or legal entity based in Vietnam.
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Not fall under entry-prohibited cases as defined in Article 21 of Law No. 47/2014/QH13.
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Provide sufficient evidence of business purpose (such as an invitation or sponsorship letter).
Required Documents
Applicants are required to prepare the following:
| Document | Description |
|---|---|
| Form NA5 | Application form for visa issuance or extension |
| Passport | Original, valid for at least 6 months |
| Photo | One 4×6 cm photo taken within 6 months |
| Business license copy | Certified copy of the sponsoring company’s registration issued by the competent authority regarding the establishment of the organization. |
| Letter of introduction | Signed and sealed by the authorized representative of the sponsor |
Legal basis: According to Item 5, Section B, Part II of the administrative procedures amended and supplemented in the field of entry-exit management under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Public Security, issued along with Decision 6968/QĐ-BCA in 2022.
How to Apply for a Vietnam Business Visa
Step 1: Prepare Documents
Ensure all documents are properly completed, translated (if necessary), and legalized according to Vietnamese law.
Step 2: Submit the Application
Applications can be submitted in three ways:
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In person: At the Provincial Immigration Office (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang).
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Online: Through the National Public Service Portal or Ministry of Public Security Portal (https://evisa.gov.vn/)
Apply online via https://evisa.gov.vn/, the official Vietnam eVisa website
Select “Business” as your purpose of visit, and fill in all the required information about the agency/organization or individual that you will contact when entering Vietnam in section No.1.
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By post: Supplementary documents may be sent via authorized postal services as directed.
Step 3: Processing and Review
- If the documents are complete and valid, the receiving officer will issue an appointment slip for result collection and request the payment of fees (which may be processed online through the portal, with an electronic receipt provided).
- If the documents are incomplete or invalid, the officer will guide the applicant or notify them via the portal to complete the application.
- In cases where the documents do not meet the requirements, the application will be rejected with a written notice or notification on the portal stating the reasons.
- For documents submitted via the National Public Service Portal or the Ministry of Public Security Portal that fall under the jurisdiction of the Immigration Department, the information will be forwarded to the Immigration Department and the applicant will be notified.
- In the case of online submission, the applicant may choose to receive the result via postal service and must pay the corresponding delivery fee.
Step 4: Receive Results
- Applicants can collect the result directly at the Provincial Immigration Management Office of the Public Security. When collecting the result, the applicant must bring the appointment slip and payment receipt for verification.
- If receiving results via postal service, follow the instructions provided by the postal service.
- If the visa is not granted, a written notice or notification on the portal will explain the reasons for rejection.
Processing time: Typically 3–5 working days after submission of a valid file.
Responsibilities of the Sponsoring Company
The sponsoring enterprise must:
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Be a legally registered business operating in Vietnam.
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Have the authority to sponsor the foreigner.
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Provide all necessary documents as required by the Immigration Management Agency.
Legal reference: Decree No. 152/2020/NĐ-CP governing foreign labor management and sponsorship conditions.
Business Visa Extension
When a foreigner wishes to remain in Vietnam beyond their visa validity, they may apply for an extension.
Extension Procedure
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Prepare the following documents:
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Completed Visa application form (NA5 form)
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Original valid passport
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Confirmation of residence from the local police or online declaration
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Certified copy of the legal documents of the sponsoring company, including Business registration certificate / Investment certificate / Branch operation permit / Representative office certificate.
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Submit the application at the Immigration Department or Provincial Immigration Office.
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Processing time: Within 5 working days from receipt of a complete file.
Updates for 2026
The 2025 regulations introduce several new measures to improve transparency and national security:
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Implementation of an electronic verification system for sponsoring businesses.
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Stricter security screening for foreign applicants.
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Enhanced health and safety documentation requirements for long-term visa holders.
Common Mistakes and Practical Tips
Avoid these common errors:
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Submitting incomplete or inconsistent documents
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Applying too close to the travel date
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Using unofficial agents or unverified intermediaries
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Confusing a business visa with a work permit — a business visa does not authorize paid employment without a valid work permit.
Pro Tips:
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Submit your visa application 2–3 weeks before travel.
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Double-check passport validity and ensure it has at least two blank pages.
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Work with reputable legal and visa consulting firms for guaranteed compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does it take to process a Vietnam business visa?
Usually 3–5 working days after submission of a complete file.
2. Can I convert a tourist visa into a business visa inside Vietnam?
No. Applicants must exit the country and apply for a business visa abroad.
3. What activities are allowed under a business visa?
Attending meetings, negotiating contracts, conducting research, and exploring investment opportunities.
However, paid employment is prohibited without a work permit.
Conclusion
Applying for a Vietnam business visa in 2026 requires proper documentation, a compliant sponsor, and adherence to the latest immigration regulations. With careful preparation and support from experienced visa consultants, foreign professionals can ensure a smooth, efficient entry process into one of Asia’s fastest-growing business destinations.
If you have not chosen the correct type of visa, see our full guide here:
>> Vietnam Visa: Your complete guide to apply in 2026
For expert assistance and legal support with business visa applications or sponsorship procedures, contact 68SOLUTIONS — your trusted immigration and legal partner in Vietnam.
Contact 68SOLUTIONS today for expert assistance and up-to-date immigration support via hotline: (+84) 982 500 802
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Consulting & Partnerships Department
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