Vietnam Visa Types
Choosing the right Vietnam visa types are crucial for a smooth entry, whether you’re visiting for tourism, business, investment, study, or work. As of December 2025, Vietnam’s immigration laws (updated through resolutions like 389/NQ-CP) offer flexible options, with the Vietnam e-visa as the primary choice for most travelers—providing up to 90 days validity for all nationalities.
This guide covers the main visa categories, requirements, validity, and application methods based on the latest policies.
Main Vietnam Visa Types by Purpose
Vietnam classifies visas into over 20 codes under the Law on Entry, Exit, Transit, and Residence of Foreigners (amended 2019/2023). The most common include:
| Visa Code | Purpose | Max Validity | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| DL | Tourism/Leisure | Up to 90 days | Most popular; via e-visa preferred |
| DN1/DN2 | Business (work with companies, services, treaties) | Up to 12 months | Sponsorship often required |
| DT1–DT4 | Investment (based on capital contribution) | 1–5 years | Long-term; work permit exemptions possible |
| LD1/LD2 | Work/Employment | Up to 2 years | Requires work permit (or exemption) |
| DH | Student/Internship | Up to 12 months | Arranged via school/sponsor |
| NG | Diplomatic/Official | Up to 12 months | Free; invitation required |
Other types: TT (family/dependents), PV1/PV2 (journalists), HN (conferences), VR (visits/other), SQ (special cases).
Popular Vietnam Visa Types in Detail
Tourist Visa (DL): Ideal for leisure travel only—no work allowed.
- Validity: Up to 90 days (single/multiple entry).
- Best Option: Vietnam e-visa—fully online, available to all nationalities, accepted at 83 ports (airports, land borders, seaports).
- Alternatives: Embassy visa for specific needs.
Business Visa (DN1/DN2): For meetings, contracts, or short-term business (not employment).
- Validity: Up to 12 months (single/multiple).
- Requirements: Sponsorship from a Vietnamese company.
- Application: Via e-visa (limited) or embassy/sponsored approval.
Work Visa (LD1/LD2): For employment in Vietnam.
- LD1: Work permit exempt.
- LD2: Requires work permit.
- Validity: Up to 2 years (extendable via Temporary Residence Card).
- Process: Employer sponsors approval letter; get stamped at embassy or (limited) on arrival.
Investor Visa (DT1–DT4): For foreign investors/representatives.
- DT1: ≥ VND 100 billion (~USD 4M) or prioritized sectors → Up to 5 years.
- DT2: VND 50–100 billion → Up to 5 years.
- DT3: VND 3–50 billion → Up to 3 years.
- DT4: < VND 3 billion → Up to 12 months.
- Benefits: Work permit exemptions, long stays.
- Application: Proof of investment + sponsorship.
Student Visa (DH): For enrolled students/interns.
- Validity: Up to 12 months.
- Process: School sponsorship; often convert from tourist visa inside Vietnam.
Diplomatic Visa (NG): For official/diplomatic missions.
- Validity: Up to 12 months.
- Usually free with official invitation.
Visas by Duration & Entries
- Short-term: Up to 90 days (single/multiple)—common for e-visa.
- Longer: Up to 12 months+ for business/work/investment.
Single vs. Multiple Entry: Single allows one entry; multiple permits re-entries during validity.
Visa Exemptions (No Visa Needed)
Many countries enjoy visa-free entry for 14–45 days (e.g., expanded to more European nations in 2025). Check the visa examption list to skip applications.
Recommended Application: Vietnam E-Visa
For most visitors (tourism/business/short stays), the Vietnam e-visa is fastest and easiest—apply online, get approval in 3–5 days (urgent options available via services). Our premium Vietnam evisa services offer expert checks, 24/7 support, and urgent processing (hours possible) for guaranteed results.
Plan your trip confidently—apply for your Vietnam visa today!