With a GDP growth rate growing 8.02% in 2022, Vietnam is positioned as one of the fastest-growing economies in Southeast Asia. Countless international investors are looking for solid investment opportunities in Vietnam, and in order to do so, they must obtain a Vietnam investor visa.
In this article, we’ll show you how to obtain an investor visa in Vietnam to help you make your investment.
What is a Vietnam Investor Visa?
A Vietnam investor visa, also known as a DT visa, is a type of visa granted for foreign investors and licensed foreign lawyers who wish to contribute capital to Vietnamese companies or industries.
There are four types of Vietnam investor visas, each with its own eligibility criteria and validity period:
Type 1: Visa DT1
This type of visa is granted under the following circumstances:
- Foreign investors in Vietnam and representatives of foreign organizations who invest in companies operating in Vietnam with a minimum total capital of VND 100 billion ($4.3 million), or
- Investments made in business fields that are encouraged by the Vietnam Government.
The validity period for Visa DT1 is a maximum of 5 years.
Type 2: Visa DT2
The eligibility criteria of Visa DT 2 are as follows:
- Foreign investors in Vietnam and representatives of foreign organizations investing in companies operating in Vietnam, with a total capital from VND 50 billion to VND 100 billion ($2.15 – 4.4 million), or
- Investments made in industries that have been designated as investment incentives by the Vietnam Government.
The validity period for Visa DT2 is a maximum of 5 years.
Type 3: Visa DT 3
This is issued to foreign investors in Vietnam and representatives for foreign organizations investing in Vietnam with a total capital of between VND 3 billion and VND 50 billion ($132,000 – 2.3 million).
The validity period for Visa DT3 is a maximum of 3 years.
Type 4: Visa DT 4
Foreign investors in Vietnam and representatives for foreign organizations investing in Vietnam with total investment capital worth less than VND 3 billion ($132,000) are eligible for this visa.
The validity period for Visa DT4 is a maximum of 12 months.
Temporary residence certificate
International investors who enter Vietnam with a DT1, DT2, DT3, or DT4 visa are eligible to obtain a temporary residence certificate. The duration of the stay permitted by this certificate is equal to the validity period of the visa.
Foreign investors have the option to convert their certificate into a temporary residence card by following the application procedure for temporary residence cards, with the exception of DT4 visa holders.
For DT1 visa holders, the temporary residence card is valid for 10 years.
Investor visa vs Business visa
| Type of Vietnam Visa | Investor Visa | Business Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Intended for individuals who plan to invest in businesses or projects in Vietnam. | Intended for individuals who visit Vietnam for business-related activities (e.g., attending conferences or meeting). |
| Validity | Range from 12 months to 5 years. | A maximum of 12 months. |
Dig deeper into how you can apply for a business visa in Vietnam.
Applying for a Vietnam investor visa
Depending on where you apply for the Vietnam investor visa, whether it is within Vietnam or in a foreign country, there are two different ways to acquire it.
Applying in countries outside of Vietnam
To get a Vietnam DT visa in a foreign country, you need to apply directly at the nearest Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate.
Required documents
Here are some common documents that are typically required:
- Original passport;
- Form of temporary residence registration;
- NA5 application form for Vietnam investor visa;
- Proof of legal status;
- Certified copy of Business Registration Certificate/Investment Certificate;
- A seal registration certificate or notice of posting information about the enterprise’s seal sample on the national business registration portal; and
- NA16 registration form for the seal and the signature of the legal representative of the inviting enterprise operating in Vietnam.
Processing time
The typical processing time for a Vietnam investor visa is 5-7 working days. However, please note that the actual timeline may vary depending on the workload of the Embassy or Consulate and the specific circumstances of your application.
Result pickup
Once your application is processed and approved, you will be required to pay the visa letter fee. This fee is necessary to obtain the letter of appointment, which will inform you of the date and location where you can collect the result of your visa application.
On the designated date, you can visit the Vietnam Embassy or Consulate to receive your visa result in person.
Alternatively, if you prefer, you can request to receive the visa result by regular mail. This option allows you to receive the result of your visa application at your specified address through postal mail.
Applying within Vietnam
f you are already in Vietnam and wish to obtain an investor visa, you can apply directly at Vietnam Immigration Department Office in Ha Noi, Ho Chi Minh, or Da Nang.
Required documents
You are required to submit the following documents:
- Original passport;
- Form of temporary residence registration;
- Proof of legal status;
- NA5 application form for Vietnam investor visa;
- Certified copy of Business Registration Certificate/Investment Certificate;
- A seal registration certificate or notice of posting information about the enterprise’s seal sample on the national business registration portal; and
- NA16 registration form for the seal and the signature of the legal representative of the enterprise operating in Vietnam.
Processing time
You will get the investor visa after around 5 working days from the date of document submission.
Result pickup
Once you are granted a Vietnam investor visa, you need to get to the nearest international airport in Vietnam to receive your visa.
Conclusion
Obtaining a Vietnam investor visa is a mandatory requirement for foreigners to invest in businesses or industries in Vietnam.
If you need help with your company establishment and visa application in Vietnam, don’t hesitate to drop us a message via service@bbcincorp.com!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Vietnam Investor Visa (DT Visa) last?
Depending on the type of DT visa you registered for, it is usually valid for 12 months to 5 years.
Fortunately, the DT visa qualifies you to apply for a temporary residence card, which allows you to stay in the country without a work permit for up to 5 years.
Who is eligible for Vietnam Investor Visa exemption?
Foreigners entering border-gate or coastal economic zones may be eligible for visa exemption, under the government’s decision.
The coastal zone must meet the following requirements:
- Having an international airport and a distinct space (with defined boundaries and separation from the mainland);
- In accordance with the policy of socioeconomic development; and
- Does not endanger national security, defense, social order, or safety.
Can foreigners be exempted from work permit in Vietnam?
In certain circumstances, a foreigner may work in Vietnam without a work permit, but must apply for a work permit exemption certificate.
Refer to Article 154 Labor Code No.45/2019/QH14 for full categories of exemption case.
Can foreigners invest in Vietnam?
Vietnam welcomes global investment and innovation by showing its openness to foreign investor around the world.
Foreigners can start a business in Vietnam with ease and enjoy certain benefits provided by the government.
Disclaimer: While BBCIncorp strives to make the information on this website as timely and accurate as possible, the information itself is for reference purposes only. You should not substitute the information provided in this article for competent legal advice. Feel free to contact BBCIncorp’s customer services for advice on your specific cases.
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