1. Casual Tourists & Short-Term Travelers
If you are visiting for sightseeing or a quick social trip, you have two main options:
- Visa Exemption (Free): In 2026, citizens of 13 countries (including Germany, France, UK, South Korea, and Japan) and 12 additional European countries (including Belgium, Netherlands, and Switzerland) are exempt from visas for stays up to 45 days.
- E-Visa: Available to citizens of all countries. It is valid for up to 90 days and can be issued for single or multiple entries. This is the best choice if your country is not on the exemption list or if you plan to stay longer than 45 days.
2. Business Professionals & Digital Nomads
For those visiting to attend meetings, sign contracts, or work remotely for short periods:
- Business Visa (DN1/DN2): Use the DN1 if you are sponsored by a specific Vietnamese company, or DN2 if you are exploring market opportunities on your own. These typically last up to 90 days, though they can be issued for up to one year.
- Talent Visa: Approved in late 2025, this 5-year multiple-entry visa is for high-level experts, top scientists, and professionals in digital technology.
3. Long-Term Workers & Expats
If you plan to be employed by a company in Vietnam:
- Work Visa (LĐ1/LĐ2): You must first obtain a Work Permit (valid for 2 years).
- LĐ1 is for those exempt from a work permit (e.g., high-level experts).
- LĐ2 is for standard employees who need a permit.
- Temporary Residence Card (TRC): If your work permit is valid for more than 12 months, you should apply for a TRC, which serves as a long-term visa and identity card.
4. Investors
If you are putting capital into a Vietnamese business, choose a visa based on your investment amount:
- ĐT1: For investments of 100 billion VND or more (Valid up to 10 years).
- ĐT2/ĐT3: For mid-level investments (Valid for 3–5 years).
- ĐT4: For small-scale investments under 3 billion VND (Valid for 1 year)
5. Family & Relatives
- Family Visa (TT/VR): Use TT if you are a spouse or child (under 18) of a foreigner working or investing in Vietnam. Use VR for visiting relatives or other personal purposes (valid for up to 6 months)
