Smart Guide to Vietnam Visa Application for Foreigners (2025 Update) – A to Z Instructions!
Date: 2025.08.14
Vietnam Visa Application Guide for Foreigners (2025 Update)
Obtaining a visa to enter Vietnam is a mandatory step for most foreigners. Whether you are an individual, business, or organization, staying updated with the latest visa rules, documents, and procedures is essential in 2025.
Not sure where to start? Don’t worry – HELP ALL will walk you through the entire Vietnam visa application process for foreigners from A to Z, ensuring it’s compliant, quick, and efficient.
What is a Vietnam visa for foreigners?
A Vietnam visa is an official document issued by the Vietnam Immigration Department that allows foreign nationals to enter the country. Depending on the purpose of entry—such as tourism, business, investment, family visit, or work—foreigners will be granted different types of visas with suitable duration and permissions.
In most cases, a valid visa is required before entering Vietnam unless the traveler qualifies for a visa exemption under Vietnam’s bilateral or unilateral agreements.

1. Common Types of Vietnam Visas (2025 Update)
Vietnam grants visas based on the purpose of entry. Below are the most popular categories:
| Visa Type | Code | Applicable For | Max Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist | DL | International tourists | 3 months |
| Family Visit | TT | Foreigners visiting Vietnamese relatives | 12 months |
| Major Investment | ĐT1 | Investment ≥ 100 billion VND | 5 years |
| Medium Investment | ĐT2 | Investment between 50 – <100 billion VND | 5 years |
| Small Investment | ĐT3 | Investment between 3 – <50 billion VND | 3 years |
| Minimum Investment | ĐT4 | Investment under 3 billion VND | 12 months |
| Business – Partner | DN1 | Working with Vietnamese companies | 12 months |
| Trade Promotion | DN2 | Establishing rep offices, providing international services Varies | 12 months |
2. Eligibility Requirements for a Vietnam Visa
To apply for a Vietnam visa, foreigners must meet the following basic criteria:
– Passport valid for at least 6 months
– Sponsored by a Vietnamese entity or individual (except e-Visa or visa-exempt cases)
– Must not fall under restricted entry cases:
+ Unaccompanied minors
+ Individuals with dangerous infectious diseases
+ Previously deported or currently banned individuals
+ Applicants with fake documents or false declarations
Some visa types require proof of entry purpose:
| Purpose | Required Documents |
|---|---|
| Investment | Investment license, legal business documents |
| Employment | Work permit |
| Education | Admission letter from a Vietnamese institution |
| Legal | Practice Valid practicing license in Vietnam |
3. Required documents for Vietnam visa application
Depending on the application method, either the sponsor or applicant must prepare two main sets of documents:
3.1. Letter of Approval documents
If applying via sponsorship:
➤ For business sponsors:
– NA2 form (entry application)
– NA16 form (company seal & signature registration)
– Certified copy of business license
– Commercial contract / business schedule
– ID/Passport of the applicant
➤ For family sponsors:
NA3 form with local confirmation
– Proof of family relationship (marriage/birth certificates, etc.)
– TRC/PR card if the sponsor is a foreigner
3.2. Official visa issuance documents
Once the approval letter is received:
– Original passport
– Entry approval letter
– Visa application form (NA1)
– Two 4x6cm white-background photos
– Supporting documents (if required)
Download all forms here:
👉 https://visainfo.vn/tai-mau-don
4. Vietnam visa fees for foreigners
Visa issuance fees as per the Ministry of Finance (in USD):
| Visa Type | Fee (USD) |
|---|---|
| Single entry | 25 |
| Multiple entries ≤ 90 days | 50 |
| Multiple entries 90–180 days | 95 |
| Multiple entries 180 days–1 year | 135 |
| Multiple entries 1–2 years | 145 |
| Multiple entries 2–5 years | 155 |
| Children under 14 years old | 25 |
💡 Note: Service fees may apply if processed through an agency
5. Popular visa application methods
Foreigners can apply for Vietnam visas in three main ways:
5.1. Directly at Vietnam Embassy/Consulate
Best for travelers needing a visa stamped in their passport beforehand.
Steps:
S1: Submit documents at Embassy/Consulate
S2: Attach the approval letter
S3: Receive visa within 3–5 business days
5.2. Visa on Arrival (VOA)
For air travelers with pre-approved letters.
Steps:
S1: Request approval letter via sponsoring company
S2: Receive the letter by email
S3: Print letter + passport + photo → submit at “Visa on Arrival” counter at these airports: Noi Bai, Tan Son Nhat, Da Nang, Cam Ranh, Phu Quoc, ect.
5.3. e-Visa (Electronic Visa)
Available for citizens of 95 approved countries.
Steps:
S1: Visit: https://evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn
S2: Fill out the form + upload photo + pay fee (25–50 USD)
S3: Receive visa by email in 3 business days
Advantages:
– No invitation letter required
– No need to visit the embassy
– Fully online process
6. Visa-Free Entry Cases
No visa is required for:
– Citizens of visa-exempt countries (Russia, Japan, Korea, France, etc.)
– Holders of Vietnam TRC/PR cards
– Holders of 5-year visa exemption certificates
– APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) holders with valid cards
– Other treaty-based exemptions
7. Key reminders during visa application
To avoid issues, remember the following:
– Apply at least 10–15 business days before your trip
– Passport must be valid for at least 6 months with 2 blank pages
– Do not falsify information or documents
– Do not overstay your visa (fines or deportation may apply)
– Always keep a copy of your e-Visa and passport during travel
– If rejected, review reasons and reapply with corrected documents – do not resend the same application repeatedly
8. Conclusion
Applying for a Vietnam visa in 2025 is easier than ever, thanks to major reforms including 90-day e-Visas, extended visa exemption lists, and streamlined online systems.
However, to ensure a smooth experience:
– Choose the right visa for your purpose
– Prepare complete and accurate documentation
– Comply with all entry and stay regulations
With Help All’s experienced visa team, we offer:
✓ Free consultation
✓ Full support in preparing documents
✓ Monitoring and resolving any application issues promptly





