Procedures To Apply For A Visa For Foreigners In Vietnam

Vietnam, with its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and friendly locals, has become an increasingly popular destination for travelers and expatriates alike. Whether you are visiting for a short vacation, planning to work or study, or seeking long-term residency, understanding the visa process is essential for a smooth and enjoyable experience. In this article, we will delve into the various types of visas available for foreigners in Vietnam, the application process, and important guidelines to make your stay hassle-free. If you have any questions, please contact immediately Apolo Lawyers Law Firm via email contact@apolo.com.vn or hotline - 0903.419.479 for legal advice and support.

1. Types of Visas

1.1 Tourist Visa

This visa is ideal for short-term visits for sightseeing, family visits, or leisure purposes. It typically allows a stay of up to 30 days, and in some cases, can be extended for an additional 30 days.

1.2 Business Visa

Designed for individuals intending to conduct business activities, attend meetings, or explore investment opportunities in Vietnam. Business visas can be issued for varying durations, usually ranging from 30 days to 1 year.

1.3 Work Visa

If you are planning to work in Vietnam, this is the visa for you. To obtain a work visa, you must have a job offer from a Vietnamese employer, and the visa duration will depend on the length of your work contract.

1.4 Student Visa

Intended for international students pursuing educational courses in Vietnam. To apply for this visa, you must have an acceptance letter from a recognized educational institution in the country.

1.5 Temporary Residence Card

If you plan to stay in Vietnam for an extended period (over three months), you may apply for a temporary residence card. This card is usually valid for one to three years and requires sponsorship from a Vietnamese organization or individual.

Procedures To Apply For A Visa For Foreigners In Vietnam

2. What documents are required to extend visas for foreigners?

Pursuant to Article 9 of the Law on Entry, Exit, Transit and Residence of Foreigners in Vietnam 2014 as amended and supplemented by Points a, b, c, dd, and dd, Clause 4, Article 1 of the Law on Entry The entry, exit, transit and residence of foreigners in Vietnam, as amended in 2019, specifically provide as follows:

Visa duration

• SQ, EV visas are valid for no more than 30 days.
• HN, DL visas are valid for no more than 03 months.
• VR visas are valid for no more than 06 months.
• Visas with symbols NG1, NG2, NG3, NG4, LV1, LV2, DT4, DN1, DN2, NN1, NN2, NN3, DH, PV1, PV2 and TT are valid for no more than 12 months.
• LD1, LD2 visas are valid for no more than 02 years.
• DT3 visa is valid for no more than 3 years
• LS, DT1, DT2 visas are valid for no more than 05 years.
• Expired visa, is considered for a new visa.
• The validity of a visa is at least 30 days shorter than that of a passport or international travel document.
• If there are other provisions in an international treaty to which Vietnam is a contracting party, the duration of a visa shall be in accordance with the treaty.

So from the above regulations, now when the visa expires, there is no procedure for granting a new visa.

3. What are the conditions to apply for a visa for foreigners in Vietnam?

Regarding visa conditions, according to the provisions of Article 10 of the Law on Entry, Exit, Transit and Residence of Foreigners in Vietnam 2014 as amended and supplemented by Points a and b Clause 5 Article 1 The 2019 Law on Entry, Exit, Transit and Residence of Foreigners in Vietnam is amended as follows:

Conditions for issuance of visas

• Have a passport or a valid international travel document.
• There are agencies, organizations and individuals in Vietnam to invite or guarantee, except for the cases specified in Article 16a, Article 16b and Clause 3, Article 17 of this Law.
• Not falling into the cases where entry is not allowed specified in Article 21 of this Law.
• The following cases when applying for a visa must have documents proving the purpose of entry:
  • Foreigners who invest in must have papers proving their investment in Vietnam according to the provisions of the Law on Investment;
  • Foreigners who practice law in Vietnam must have a license to practice law in accordance with the Law on Lawyers;
  • Foreigners who come to work must have a work permit in accordance with the provisions of the Labor Code;
  • Foreigners entering to study must have a written acceptance from the Vietnamese school or educational institution.
• E-visas are issued to foreigners who have passports and do not fall into the categories specified in Clauses 1, 2, 3 and 4, Article 8 of this Law.

4. What is the procedure for applying for a visa for foreigners in Vietnam?

Regarding visa procedures (visa), comply with Articles 16 and 17 of the Law on Entry, Exit, Transit and Residence of Foreigners in Vietnam 2014 supplemented by Clause 8, Article 1 of the Law on Entry and Exit. The entry, transit and residence of foreigners in Vietnam as amended in 2019 are as follows:

• Carrying out procedures for inviting and guaranteeing foreigners to enter Vietnam at the immigration management agency according to Article 16 of the Law on entry, exit, transit and residence of foreigners in Vietnam 2014
• In this case, it can be determined that the visa application will be done at the visa-issuing authority of Vietnam abroad according to Article 17 of the Law on Entry, Exit, Transit and Residence of Foreigners.
• The inviting or guarantoring agency, organization or individual specified in Clause 1, Article 17 shall directly send a written request for a visa together with the passport or international travel document at the agency immigration authority or competent authority of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. (usually here is to contact the Department of Foreign Affairs)
• A written request for a visa, made according to the form issued by the Ministry of Public Security in Circular 04/2015/TT-BCA

In addition, the fees and charges for payment are implemented in accordance with Circular 25/2021/TT-BTC stipulating the rate of collection, collection, payment, management and use of fees and charges in the field of import and export, transit, residence in Vietnam issued by the Minister of Finance.

Procedures To Apply For A Visa For Foreigners In Vietnam

Navigating the visa process in Vietnam can seem daunting at first, but with the right information and adherence to the guidelines, it can be a straightforward and rewarding experience. Remember to plan ahead, gather all necessary documents, and seek professional assistance if needed to ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay in this beautiful Southeast Asian country. If you have any questions, please contact immediately Apolo Lawyers Law Firm via email contact@apolo.com.vn or hotline - 0903.419.479 for legal advice and support.

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