Thousands of Chinese business professionals travel to Vietnam every year to explore market opportunities, yet many encounter difficulties during the visa application process. How to prepare for a business trip to Vietnam: A guide to visas, itineraries, and local culture has become an urgent issue for business travelers.
Obtaining a Vietnam business visa is not complicated, as long as you follow the correct application procedures and stay updated on the latest policy requirements. In this guide, we will provide a detailed breakdown of Vietnam business visa types, required documents, application procedures, and fees to help you smoothly plan your business trip to Vietnam.
First, let’s understand the basic types of Vietnam business visas and their applicable scenarios…
I. Vietnam Business Visa Types & Eligibility
1. When is a Business Visa Required?
The Vietnam Business Visa (DN Visa) is specifically designed for foreign nationals conducting business activities in Vietnam. Holders of this visa can legally engage in the following:
Attend business meetings and negotiations
Conduct market research and business discussions
Participate in training programs
Sign commercial contracts
Establish business partnerships with Vietnamese companies
Important Note: While business visa holders can engage in leisure travel outside of work activities, tourist visa (DL Visa) holders are not permitted to conduct business in Vietnam. Therefore, if you plan to engage in any form of commercial activity, a business visa is mandatory.
2. Comparison of Common Visa Types (DL, DN, LD)
Vietnam issues 21 different visa types based on the purpose of visit. Below is a comparison of the most relevant visas for business travelers:
| Visa Type | Eligibility | Validity | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| DN1 Visa | Foreigners cooperating with legally registered Vietnamese companies/organizations | 1-3 months | For short-term business visits |
| DN2 Visa | Foreigners providing services, establishing a business presence, or conducting other activities under international treaties | 1-3 months | Business activities based on international agreements |
| DL Visa | Visitors for tourism purposes only | 1-3 months | Cannot conduct business activities |
| LD Visa | Foreigners working long-term in Vietnam | 1-2 years (or longer) | Requires a work permit |
Key Differences Between Business & Work Visas
Business Visa (DN): For those negotiating business in Vietnam.
Work Visa (LD): For those employed by a Vietnamese company.
No work permit is needed for a business visa, but a work visa requires one.
Work visa holders can apply for a temporary residence card, while business visa holders cannot.
Single-Entry vs. Multiple-Entry Business Visas
Single-Entry: Valid for one entry only—exiting Vietnam voids the visa.
Multiple-Entry: Allows unlimited entries during validity, ideal for frequent business travelers.
Vietnamese Immigration Advisory: Chinese citizens must apply for the correct visa type matching their purpose of visit. “Visa type not matching travel purpose” is a common reason for fines by Vietnamese authorities. Always apply through official channels, and ensure you have an invitation letter from a Vietnamese host company for business activities.
II. Required Documents for a Vietnam Business Visa
A successful application depends on submitting complete and compliant documents. Below are the key requirements:
1. Passport Validity Requirements
Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your entry date.
Must be undamaged (no tears, water damage, or alterations).
If you have an old passport, bring it to demonstrate travel history.
2. Visa Approval Letter & Company Documents
A Visa Approval Letter (issued by the Vietnamese Immigration) is mandatory.
Without it, your visa may be rejected.
Your Vietnamese host company must apply for this letter on your behalf.
3. Photo & Visa Application Form
Two (2) passport-sized photos (35×45mm, white background) taken within the last 6 months.
Neutral expression, full-face view, no glasses or headwear (unless for religious reasons).
Fully completed Vietnam Visa Application Form (downloadable from the embassy website).
4. Supporting Documents (Flight & Hotel Bookings)
Additional documents that improve approval chances:
Round-trip flight itinerary
Hotel reservation confirmation in Vietnam
Business card
Copy of ID card (front & back on A4 paper)
Note: Vietnam’s visa policies change frequently, so always check for updates before applying.
III. Vietnam Business Visa Application Process
There are three main ways to apply for a Vietnam business visa:
| Method | Processing Time | Entry Points | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| E-Visa (Online) | 1-4 days | 33 designated ports | Short-term business trips |
| Visa on Arrival (VoA) | 5-7 days (approval letter) | 8 international airports | Short-term business trips+ want to extend or change to work visa |
| Embassy Visa | 5-7 days | All ports | Long-term stays+ want to extend or change to work visa |
1. E-Visa Application Steps
① Visit the official Vietnam e-visa portal (https://www.vietnam-visa.hk/apply-vietnam-visa/)
② Fill in personal details & select “Business Purpose”
③ Upload passport scan & photo (JPEG format)
④ Pay the visa fee (varies by processing speed: Standard (4 days) or Urgent (same day)
⑤ Print the e-visa and present it upon arrival.
Note: Chinese e-passport holders (starting with “E”) may receive a separate paper visa at immigration.
2. Visa on Arrival (VoA) Steps
① Your Vietnamese host company obtains an approval letter (5-7 days).
② Prepare:
Visa application form
Passport & photos
Approval letter
③ At the airport, go to the “Visa on Arrival” counter.
④ Submit documents & pay the stamping fee (25single−entry/50 multiple-entry).
⑤ Receive your visa and proceed to immigration.
Restriction: Only available at 8 international airports (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, etc.).
3. Embassy Visa Application
① Your Vietnamese host company obtains an approval letter (5-7 days).
② Prepare:
Completed application form
Passport, photos, approval letter
Supporting documents
③ Submit at the Vietnamese Embassy/Consulate or via an agency.
④ Pay the visa fee.
⑤ Wait 5-7 business days for processing.
⑥ Collect your visa-stamped passport.
Final Recommendation
Short-term business trips? → E-Visa (fast & convenient).
Urgent travel? → Visa on Arrival (but only for air arrivals).
Long-term business stays? → Embassy Visa (longer validity).
For urgent assistance, contact:
📧 Email: info@yuenanyuenan.com
📱 LINE: https://line.me/ti/p/nqB711G8TX
💬 WeChat: vietnam-visa
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