DESTINATION PROFILE: VIETNAM

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1. Visa Types and Requirements

Tourist Visa (DL):

Purpose: For leisure travel, tourism, or visiting friends and relatives.

Validity: Typically valid for 30 to 90 days, with single or multiple entries.

Application Methods:

• E-Visa: Available to citizens of certain countries, including South Africa. Allows for stays up to 90 days. 
• Visa on Arrival (VOA): Requires a pre-approval letter obtained through a Vietnamese travel agency.
• Embassy/Consulate Application: Apply directly at a Vietnamese embassy or consulate.

Requirements:

• Passport: Valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay.
• Completed Application Form.
• Passport-sized Photos.
• Proof of Accommodation: Hotel bookings or an invitation letter from a host in Vietnam.
• Return/Onward Ticket.
• Visa Fee: Varies depending on the visa type and processing method.

Business Visa (DN):

Purpose: For attending business meetings, conferences, or other business-related activities.

Validity: Up to 12 months, with single or multiple entries.

Requirements:

• All documents listed under Tourist Visa.
• Letter of Invitation: From a Vietnamese business partner or sponsor.
• Business Registration Certificate: Of the inviting company.

Work Visa (LD):

Purpose: For foreign nationals employed by a Vietnamese company.

Validity: Up to two years.

Requirements:

• Work Permit: Issued by the Vietnamese Department of Labor.
• Employment Contract.
• Relevant Qualifications: Degrees or certificates.

Investor Visa (DT):

Purpose: For foreign investors contributing capital to Vietnamese enterprises.

Categories:

• DT1: Investments over VND 100 billion or in prioritised sectors.
• DT2: Investments between VND 50 billion and VND 100 billion.
• DT3: Investments between VND 3 billion and VND 50 billion.
• DT4: Investments under VND 3 billion.

Validity:

• DT1 & DT2: Up to 5 years.
• DT3: Up to 3 years.
• DT4: Up to 12 months.

Requirements:

• Investment Certificates.
• Proof of Capital Contribution.
• Business Plans.

2. Application Procedures

E-Visa:

• Application: Submit online through the official Vietnamese government portal.
• Processing Time: Typically 3-5 working days.
• Fee: USD 25 for single entry; USD 50 for multiple entries. 

Visa on Arrival (Not recommended for African passport holders):

Procedure:

Pre-Approval Letter: Obtain through a Vietnamese travel agency.

Arrival: Present the letter at designated airports to receive the visa.

Processing Time: 2-3 working days for the approval letter.

Fee: Service fee for the approval letter plus stamping fee upon arrival.

Embassy/Consulate Application:

Procedure:

Submission: Apply in person or by mail at the nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate.

Processing Time: Varies; typically 5-7 working days.

Fee: Varies by embassy and visa type.

• Complete All Forms: Double-check the visa application form for completeness and accuracy. Any missing or incorrect information can lead to rejection.
• Valid Passport: Ensure the passport is valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay and has at least two blank pages.
• Proof of Purpose: Clearly state the purpose of your visit (e.g., tourism) and provide supporting evidence like:
• A detailed itinerary.
• Confirmed hotel reservations.
• Proof of return tickets.
• Bank Statements: Provide recent bank statements (3–6 months) showing sufficient funds to cover your trip.
• Sponsorship Letter: If someone else is funding your trip, include a sponsorship letter and their financial statements.
• Proof of Employment or Education:
• Submit a letter from your employer or school stating your position, leave dates, and expected return.
• Include pay slips or proof of enrolment in a university.
• Agency Support: Many countries have authorised travel agencies that help with visa applications. Using their services can minimise errors and provide you with up-to-date requirements.
• Previous Visa Rejections: Be honest about past rejections and explain any issues if required.
• Criminal Records: Ensure you provide a clean police clearance certificate if requested.
• Consistent Travel History: If possible, build a history of travel to countries with fewer restrictions to show that you are a genuine traveler.
• Explain Intentions: Briefly describe your travel plans and reasons for visiting the destination.
• Assure Compliance: Reiterate that you intend to comply with all visa conditions and return to your home country.
• Vaccinations: Check for required vaccinations and carry proof (e.g., yellow fever vaccination for some countries).
• Travel Insurance: Purchase travel insurance that covers the entire trip duration.
• Avoid Last-Minute Applications: Submit your application well in advance of your intended travel date to avoid processing delays.
• Embassy Visits: If an in-person interview is required, dress professionally and confidently articulate your travel plans.
• Politeness: Be courteous and cooperative with embassy staff.
• Track Your Application: Use the embassy’s or visa service’s tracking system to monitor your application’s progress.
• Respond Promptly: If the embassy requests additional documents, submit them as quickly as possible.
• It is recommended to travel with between $1000 to $2000 dollars cash incase of any issues during your trip.

https://evisa.gov.vn