Vietnam Business Visa Application: Requirements and Invitation Letters

Key Takeaways

• Vietnam Business Visa (DN) enables business visits but prohibits paid employment without a work permit.
• E-visa expanded to all nationalities, valid 90 days; repeated business use may lead to scrutiny.
• Resolution No. 44/NQ-CP exempts 12 countries for 45 days; most business travelers need DN visa.

The Vietnam Business Visa (DN visa) is a key document for foreign nationals who wish to enter Vietnam 🇻🇳 for business purposes. This includes attending meetings, negotiating contracts, conducting market research, or exploring business opportunities. The DN visa is distinct from a work permit and does not allow paid employment. Recent policy changes, such as the expansion of e-visa eligibility and stricter compliance measures, have shaped the current landscape for business travelers. This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the Vietnam Business Visa, focusing on its requirements, application procedures, compliance expectations, and the impact of recent regulations like Resolution No. 44/NQ-CP.

Purpose and Scope

This analysis aims to:

• Explain the purpose and requirements of the Vietnam Business Visa (DN visa)
• Outline the application process for both host-sponsored and e-visa options
• Present recent policy changes, including Resolution No. 44/NQ-CP, and their practical effects
• Compare visa types, durations, and compliance obligations
• Offer evidence-based conclusions and practical recommendations for business travelers

Methodology

The content is based on official government sources, recent policy documents, and expert commentary. Data is drawn from the Vietnam Immigration Department, embassy guidelines, and reputable immigration advisory services. The analysis integrates quantitative data, step-by-step procedures, and visual descriptions to help readers understand the process and requirements.

Key Findings

• Host-sponsored DN visas remain the preferred and most compliant route for business travelers.
• E-visa eligibility now covers all nationalities, but repeated use for business purposes can trigger scrutiny.
• Resolution No. 44/NQ-CP grants visa exemptions to citizens of 12 countries for up to 45 days, but most business travelers still require a DN visa.
• Strict compliance is enforced, especially regarding sponsorship and temporary stay registration.
• DN visas are available for 1, 3, 6, or 12 months, while e-visas are valid for up to 90 days.
• A DN visa does not authorize paid employment; a separate work permit is required for that purpose.

Data Presentation and Visual Descriptions

Visa Types and Durations

• DN Visa (Business Visa): Issued for 1, 3, 6, or 12 months. Available as single or multiple entry.
• E-Visa: Valid for up to 90 days, single or multiple entry. Now open to all nationalities.
• Resolution No. 44/NQ-CP: Visa exemption for citizens of 12 countries for stays up to 45 days. Does not generally apply to business travelers.

Visual Description:
Imagine a table with three columns: Visa Type, Validity, and Entry Type. The DN visa row shows options for 1, 3, 6, or 12 months, with both single and multiple entry. The e-visa row shows up to 90 days, also with single or multiple entry. The exemption row highlights 45 days for select nationalities.

Application Fees and Processing Times

• E-Visa Fees: $25 for single entry, $50 for multiple entry (up to 90 days)
• DN Visa Fees: Vary by embassy/consulate
• Processing Time: 3–7 working days, depending on the method and completeness of documentation

Visual Description:
Picture a bar graph with three bars: one for e-visa single entry ($25), one for e-visa multiple entry ($50), and one for DN visa (variable). Next to the bars, a timeline shows processing times from 3 to 7 days.

Sponsorship and Documentation

• Sponsorship: Required for DN visa. The sponsoring company must be legally registered in Vietnam 🇻🇳.
• Documents Needed:
  • Passport (valid for at least 6 months, with 2 blank pages)
  • Recent passport photo (4×6 cm, white background, no glasses)
  • Invitation letter from the sponsoring company
  • Completed visa application forms (Form NA2, Form NA5, Form NA16)
  • Notarized copy of the company’s business registration certificate

Visual Description:
Envision a checklist with boxes for each document. Each box is ticked as the applicant gathers the required items.

Comparisons, Trends, and Patterns

Host-Sponsored DN Visa vs. E-Visa

• Host-Sponsored DN Visa:
  • Strongly preferred by authorities for business travel
  • Ensures compliance with sponsorship and temporary stay registration
  • Reduces risk of penalties or visa denials
• E-Visa:
  • Convenient and accessible for all nationalities
  • Suitable for short-term business visits
  • Repeated use for business by the same individual may attract scrutiny

Pattern:
There is a clear trend toward stricter enforcement of sponsorship and compliance. Vietnamese authorities encourage business travelers to use host-sponsored DN visas, even for short stays, to avoid complications.

Impact of Resolution No. 44/NQ-CP

• Visa Exemption: Applies to citizens of 12 countries for up to 45 days. However, most business travelers still require a DN visa unless they qualify for exemption.
• Business Activities: Exemptions do not generally cover business activities that require sponsorship and compliance with local regulations.

Trend:
While visa exemptions are expanding, the majority of business travelers must still follow the DN visa process, especially if their activities involve meetings, negotiations, or market research.

Compliance and Enforcement

• Stricter Compliance: Since January 2025, authorities have increased checks on sponsorship, purpose declarations, and temporary stay registration.
• Penalties: Overuse of self-sponsored e-visas for business or unclear declarations can lead to visa denials or penalties.

Pattern:
There is a growing emphasis on accurate documentation and clear sponsorship. Companies and travelers must ensure all paperwork is complete and truthful.

Evidence-Based Conclusions

• Host-sponsored DN visas are the safest and most compliant option for business travelers to Vietnam 🇻🇳.
• E-visas offer convenience but should be used carefully for business purposes, with clear documentation and, ideally, a supporting invitation letter.
• Resolution No. 44/NQ-CP provides visa exemptions for some, but most business visitors still need a DN visa.
• Strict compliance with sponsorship and temporary stay registration is essential to avoid penalties.
• A DN visa does not allow paid employment; a separate work permit is required for any paid work.

Step-by-Step Application Procedures

A. Embassy/Consulate Application (Host-Sponsored DN Visa)

1. Sponsoring Company Prepares:
   • Notarized copy of business registration certificate
   • Entry application for foreigners (Form NA2)
   • Vietnam visa application form (Form NA5)
   • Sample of seal and signature (Form NA16)
   • Invitation letter stating purpose and duration of visit
2. Submission:
   • Submit documents to the Vietnam Immigration Department
   • Processing time: 5–7 working days
3. Entry Approval Letter:
   • Issued by Immigration Department
   • Sent to applicant and relevant embassy/consulate
4. Applicant Prepares:
   • Passport (6 months validity, 2 blank pages)
   • Recent passport photo (4×6 cm)
   • Printed entry approval letter
   • Completed visa application form
5. Visa Stamping:
   • Visit embassy/consulate for visa stamping
   • Pay applicable visa fee

B. E-Visa Application (Online, Self-Sponsored or Host-Sponsored)

1. Prepare Documents:
   • Passport (scan of data page)
   • Recent passport photo (4×6 cm)
   • Temporary address in Vietnam
   • Invitation letter (recommended for business)
2. Submit Application:
   • Access the official e-visa portal
   • Complete online form, select “Business Activities” as purpose
   • Pay fee ($25 single entry, $50 multiple entry)
3. Processing:
   • Wait 3–5 working days for result
4. Download and Print E-Visa:
   • Present at border checkpoint upon arrival

Invitation Letters and Sponsorship

• Invitation Letter: Must be issued by a legally registered Vietnamese company, stating the purpose, duration, and nature of the business visit.
• Proof of Business Relationship: May include contracts, agreements, or other supporting documents.
• Electronic Authentication: Ongoing implementation to enhance security for sponsoring businesses.

Duration and Extensions

• DN Visa: 1, 3, 6, or 12 months, single or multiple entry
• E-Visa: Up to 90 days, single or multiple entry
• Extensions: Possible before the current visa expires, with continued sponsorship and justification

Compliance and Temporary Stay Registration

• Temporary Stay Registration: Mandatory for all foreign visitors. Usually handled by the landlord, but the sponsoring company is ultimately responsible.
• Reporting: Companies must ensure accurate and timely reporting to avoid penalties.

Limitations

• Visa Exemptions: Resolution No. 44/NQ-CP does not cover most business travelers.
• Paid Employment: DN visa holders cannot engage in paid work without a work permit.
• Extensions: Not guaranteed; depend on continued sponsorship and compliance.
• E-Visa Risks: Repeated use for business by the same individual may lead to increased scrutiny.

Practical Guidance and Next Steps

• Choose the Right Visa: For business activities, a host-sponsored DN visa is safest. Use the e-visa option for short visits, but ensure all documentation is clear and complete.
• Prepare Documents Carefully: Gather all required forms, invitation letters, and supporting documents before applying.
• Register Your Stay: Upon arrival, make sure your temporary stay is registered promptly.
• Avoid Paid Work: Do not engage in any paid employment without a valid work permit.
• Consult Official Sources: For the latest updates, always check the Vietnam Immigration Department website or contact your nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate.

Trends and Future Outlook

• Golden Visa Proposal: Vietnam 🇻🇳 is considering a long-term visa for high-profile investors, but this is not yet available.
• More Exemptions Possible: Additional countries may be added to the exemption list, but business travelers from non-exempt countries will still need a DN visa.
• Continued Compliance Monitoring: Expect ongoing enforcement and possible further tightening of business visa regulations.

Summary Table: Vietnam Business Visa (DN Visa) Key Details

Conclusion

The Vietnam Business Visa (DN visa) is essential for foreign nationals conducting business in Vietnam 🇻🇳. While recent changes like the e-visa expansion and Resolution No. 44/NQ-CP have made entry easier for some, strict compliance remains a top priority. Host-sponsored DN visas offer the most secure and compliant route, while e-visas provide convenience for short-term visits. Business travelers should prepare all documents carefully, ensure proper sponsorship, and follow all registration requirements. According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, staying informed about policy changes and using official channels is the best way to ensure a smooth business trip to Vietnam 🇻🇳.

For the most up-to-date information, always refer to the official Vietnam Immigration Department website.

Learn Today

DN Visa → A Vietnam business visa allowing entry for meetings and negotiations without paid employment rights.
E-Visa → An electronic visa valid up to 90 days for short-term visits, accessible to all nationalities.
Resolution No. 44/NQ-CP → A 2025 policy granting visa exemption for citizens of 12 countries for stays up to 45 days.
Sponsorship → A requirement where a legally registered Vietnamese company supports and approves a foreign business visitor’s visa application.
Temporary Stay Registration → A mandatory process registering a foreigner’s temporary address during their stay in Vietnam.

This Article in a Nutshell

The Vietnam Business Visa (DN) is vital for business visits but disallows paid work. Recent policies expand e-visa eligibility, emphasize strict compliance, and enforce sponsorship. Resolution No. 44/NQ-CP grants limited exemptions, yet host-sponsored DN visas remain the safest route for business travelers needing longer, compliant stays.
— By VisaVerge.com