Plan your work adventure in Vietnam with our guide to immigration visas for international workers! Learn about visa requirements, application processes, costs, cultural site visits, eco-friendly Vietnam Tours, and top providers for a seamless experience with Vietnam Travel. Start your journey today!
Photograph the festive spirit of Vietnam’s culture (Source: Internet)Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys, and official sources like vietnam-visa.com, travel.state.gov, evisa.gov.vn, vinpearl.com, and vietnam.travel. Information based on the latest data; verify before travel. Reflects Vietnam’s updated travel regulations.
Workers, please note: The Visa on Arrival (VOA) program was discontinued in 2022. International workers must obtain a work visa (DL visa) through a Vietnamese embassy or consulate before arrival, or apply for an e-visa for initial entry if eligible, followed by work permit processing in Vietnam. This guide details visa requirements for workers, application processes, and travel tips for a seamless journey.
Vietnam, a dynamic Southeast Asian destination, is renowned for its cultural landmarks like Hoi An’s ancient town, Ha Long Bay’s limestone karsts, and bustling cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City vinpearl.com. Understanding immigration visa requirements for workers ensures smooth entry for employment, whether in tech, education, or tourism sectors. Workers from all countries require a DL visa sponsored by a Vietnamese employer, with e-visas available for initial entry vietnam-visa.com. This guide provides practical visa insights, cultural tips, and eco-friendly Vietnam Travel options for international workers.
Following Vietnam’s updated travel regulations, the country is accessible via 13 international airports (e.g., Noi Bai in Hanoi, Tan Son Nhat in Ho Chi Minh City), 16 land borders, and 13 seaports. This guide blends visa requirements for workers, application processes, and sustainable Vietnam Travel ideas for a worry-free adventure.
International workers require a DL visa sponsored by a Vietnamese employer, with costs $25–$100 (625,000–2,500,000 VND) depending on type and duration. Passports must be valid for at least 6 months with two blank pages. Cultural site entries like Hoi An cost $5–$7 (125,000–175,000 VND); guided tours range from $15–$80 (375,000–2,000,000 VND). Work permits cost $100–$200 (2,500,000–5,000,000 VND), and temporary residence registration is mandatory within 24 hours, typically handled by employers. Verify visa requirements via evisa.gov.vn or travel.state.gov.
DL Visa (Work Visa):
Purpose: Employment in Vietnam, including teaching, business, or skilled labor.
Eligibility: All international workers with a Vietnamese sponsor (employer) vietnam-visa.com.
Duration: Up to 2 years, renewable vietnam-visa.com.
Cost: $25–$100 (625,000–2,500,000 VND), depending on visa type and processing time vietnam-visa.com.
Application Process:
Obtain a work permit from the Vietnamese Ministry of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs (MOLISA) through your employer (processing time: 10–15 days, cost: $100–$200 or 2,500,000–5,000,000 VND) vietnam-visa.com.
Submit visa application at a Vietnamese embassy/consulate with work permit, employer sponsorship letter, passport, photos, and fees travel.state.gov.
Processing time: 5–10 working days vietnam-visa.com.
Enter Vietnam with DL visa; register temporary residence with local police within 24 hours (handled by employer) travel.state.gov.
Apply for residence card ($100 or 2,500,000 VND) for stays over 3 months vietnam-visa.com.
Extension: Extendable through MOLISA with employer sponsorship; fees vary ($25–$100 or 625,000–2,500,000 VND) vietnam-visa.com.
Entry/Exit Points: Valid at 13 airports, 16 land borders, and 13 seaports vietnam.travel.
E-Visa (For Initial Entry):
Purpose: Tourism or business for initial entry, then transition to DL visa; not a work visa but useful for job interviews or short business trips.
Eligibility: Citizens of 80 countries evisa.gov.vn.
Duration: Up to 90 days (single or multiple entry) evisa.gov.vn.
Cost: $25 (625,000 VND) for single entry; $50 (1,250,000 VND) for multiple entry; non-refundable vietnam-visa.com.
Application Process:
Visit evisa.gov.vn, select English, and click “Apply now” evisa.gov.vn.
Review terms and conditions, then confirm to proceed evisa.gov.vn.
Enter personal details (full name, date of birth, nationality), passport details (number, issue/expiry date), travel details (intended entry/exit dates, entry/exit checkpoints), and temporary address in Vietnam (e.g., hotel or employer address) vietnam-visa.com.
Upload a digital passport photo (4x6 cm, white background, no glasses, straight view) and a scan of the passport data page in .jpg format, max 2MB evisa.gov.vn.
Pay the fee ($25 or $50) via credit/debit card (American Express not accepted); note the verification code vietnam-visa.com.
Check status at evisa.gov.vn/e-visa/search using registration code, email, and date of birth; download and print the e-visa PDF evisa.gov.vn.
Present printed e-visa and passport at the entry checkpoint; ensure details match exactly to avoid entry issues travel.state.gov.
Processing Time: 3–7 working days; expedited processing (1–2 days) available through agencies for additional fees ($10–$30 or 250,000–750,000 VND) vietnam-visa.com.
Extension: Non-extendable; requires exit and re-entry with a new e-visa or DL visa vietnam-visa.com.
Entry/Exit Points: Valid at 13 airports, 16 land borders, and 13 seaports evisa.gov.vn.
Key Restrictions:
Workers must not fall under suspension categories (e.g., security risks) as per Vietnam’s immigration laws evisa.gov.vn.
Temporary residence registration is mandatory within 24 hours, typically handled by employers or hotels travel.state.gov.
Overstay penalties: 500,000 VND/day ($20/day); potential exit bans or deportation travel.state.gov.
Important Note: The Visa on Arrival program was discontinued in 2022. Workers must obtain a DL visa through a sponsor before arrival vietnam-visa.com.
Passport: Valid for at least 6 months from entry date with two blank pages travel.state.gov.
Work Permit: Required before DL visa; obtained through MOLISA by employer (cost: $100–$200 or 2,500,000–5,000,000 VND) vietnam-visa.com.
Sponsor: Vietnamese employer must provide sponsorship letter and work contract vietnam-visa.com.
Residence Registration: Mandatory within 24 hours, handled by employer; carry proof of registration travel.state.gov.
Cultural etiquette ensures a smooth integration during Vietnam Tours for workers. Here’s your guide, based on current norms:
Greetings: Offer a “xin chào” (hello) with a slight nod; use both hands for transactions at workplaces or markets like Hanoi’s Old Quarter culturetrip.com.
Dress: Wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees for temple visits (e.g., Temple of Literature); business attire for work vinpearl.com.
Behaviour: Maintain a calm demeanor at work or cultural sites; ask permission before photographing locals or rituals; carry passport or visa securely to verify status. Avoid public criticism of the Vietnamese government (penalties apply). A guest shared: “Respecting Vietnamese customs eased my work transition and trip.” culturetrip.com
Customs: Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated ($0.20–$1 or 5,000–25,000 VND); avoid littering at cultural sites like Ha Long Bay or Hoi An; complete residence registration within 24 hours travel.state.gov.
Tip: Say “cảm ơn” (thank you) to colleagues or guides; use eco-friendly practices like reusable water bottles ($2 or 50,000 VND) to support sustainable Vietnam Travel; keep passport handy for checks. Tony Bùi notes: “In 20 years guiding, I’ve seen workers thrive in Vietnam’s vibrant culture.”
General Tips:
Language: Carry a phrase card ($1 or 25,000 VND) for Vietnamese basics like “cảm ơn”; English is widely spoken in business areas like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City culturetrip.com.
Respect: Follow workplace rules; respect local vendors with fair purchases in markets.
Navigation: Use PassApp for ride-hailing; carry e-visa or passport photocopy for checks travel.state.gov.
Eco-Tip: Opt for bicycles ($1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND/day) or motorbike taxis ($0.50–$2 or 12,500–50,000 VND) to reduce emissions vietnam.travel.
Below is a curated list of tour options to enhance your visa-prepared journey, based on the latest data from vietnam-visa.com, evisa.gov.vn, travel.state.gov, vinpearl.com, and vietnam.travel. Confirm schedules and prices before booking.
Details: Explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Hoi An’s ancient town, or Ha Long Bay independently after obtaining a DL visa; suitable for workers with valid work visas; low to moderate difficulty vietnam.travel.
Visa Tips: Use DL visa for employment; carry a printed visa or passport photocopy; register residence with employer travel.state.gov.
Schedule: Daily; Hoi An ancient town open 8:00 AM–5:00 PM ($5–$7 or 125,000–175,000 VND); Temple of Literature open 8:00 AM–5:00 PM ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND); Ha Long Bay accessible anytime.
Cost: Entry: free (markets); Hoi An: $5–$7 (125,000–175,000 VND); Temple of Literature: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND); transport (bicycle: $1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND/day; motorbike taxi: $0.50–$2 or 12,500–50,000 VND); local purchases: $0.20–$10 (5,000–250,000 VND).
Location: Hanoi, Hoi An, Ha Long Bay, Vietnam.
Eco-Friendly Note: Use bicycles or walk to reduce emissions; avoid littering at cultural sites.
Tip: Confirm DL visa with employer; check evisa.gov.vn; a guest from the US noted: “Self-guided exploration was seamless with my work visa.”
Details: 1-day group tour visiting Hanoi’s Old Quarter and Temple of Literature; includes English-speaking guide, transport from Hanoi hotels, lunch, and entry fees; low difficulty.
Visa Tips: Ensure valid DL visa; carry a printed visa or passport photocopy; guides assist with residence registration travel.state.gov.
Schedule: Daily; departs 7:00 AM from Hanoi hotels; returns by 4:00 PM.
Cost: $25–$40/person (625,000–1,000,000 VND, includes transport and entry).
Pick-up/Drop-off: Hotels in Hanoi.
Eco-Friendly Note: Group transport with fuel-efficient vehicles minimizes impact; supports local communities.
Tip: Book via legendtravelgroup.com; a guest from the UK noted: “Legend’s tour ensured visa compliance and cultural immersion.”
Details: 1-day guided tour visiting Hoi An’s ancient town and a cycling tour; includes English-speaking guide, transport from Hoi An, lunch, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty.
Visa Tips: Use DL visa for extended stays; carry a printed visa or passport photocopy; confirm eligibility vietnam-visa.com.
Schedule: Daily; departs 6:30 AM from Hoi An hotels; returns by 4:00 PM.
Cost: $30–$50/person (750,000–1,250,000 VND, includes entry).
Pick-up/Drop-off: Hotels in Hoi An.
Eco-Friendly Note: Small groups and cycling reduce environmental impact; supports local communities.
Tip: Book via localvietnam.com; a guest from France noted: “The combo tour was visa-ready and enriching.”
Details: 2–3 day tour combining Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, and Hoi An; includes English-speaking guide, transport, accommodation, meals, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty.
Visa Tips: Use DL visa for work-related stays; carry a printed visa or passport photocopy; confirm temporary residence registration travel.state.gov.
Schedule: Daily; departs from Hanoi hotels; returns after 2–3 days.
Cost: $80–$200/person (2,000,000–5,000,000 VND, includes entries).
Pick-up/Drop-off: Hotels or custom locations in Hanoi.
Eco-Friendly Note: Uses eco-lodges and fuel-efficient transport; supports local communities.
Tip: Book Vietnam Tours via legendtravelgroup.com or WhatsApp (+84 825862222); a guest from Germany noted: “The multi-day tour was a visa-smart cultural journey.”
Self-Guided Exploration: Flexible and cost-effective, ideal for workers with DL visas.
Group Cultural Tours: Affordable and guided, perfect for visa-compliant cultural insights.
Combo Cultural and Adventure Tours: Blend cultural visits with eco-friendly activities for a comprehensive journey.
Multi-Day Cultural and Adventure Tours: Offer in-depth exploration with visa-smart itineraries.
Eco-Friendly Note: Group and multi-day tours use fuel-efficient transport or bicycles, supporting Vietnam’s green tourism goals.
Key visa-prepared travel opportunities include:
Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year): Typically late January to February, vibrant with temple ceremonies and family traditions; warm and dry (18–28°C); check dates at vietnam.travel.
Hung Kings Festival: Typically March to April, honoring Vietnam’s founders; warm and dry (24–32°C); check dates at vietnam.travel.
Mid-Autumn Festival: Typically September, festive with lantern parades; warm and wet (24–31°C); check dates at vietnam.travel.
Cultural Site Visits: Dry season (January–August) for comfortable weather; February for optimal conditions vinpearl.com.
Dry season (January–August, 18–33°C) is ideal for visa-prepared work travel and cultural visits. Hot period (April–August, 24–33°C) suits early morning outings. Wet season (September–December, 24–31°C) is best for budget travelers and indoor experiences. Morning visits (6:00 AM–10:00 AM) avoid crowds and heat. Verify forecasts via weather.com.
Verify Visa Needs: All workers require a DL visa sponsored by a Vietnamese employer; use e-visas for initial entry if eligible; apply through embassies or consulates vietnam-visa.com.
Work Permit: Obtain through MOLISA before DL visa; employer handles application (cost: $100–$200 or 2,500,000–5,000,000 VND) vietnam-visa.com.
Documentation: Ensure passport validity (6+ months); carry sponsorship letter, work contract, and printed visa; keep a photocopy of passport bio page separately travel.state.gov.
Residence Registration: Mandatory within 24 hours, handled by employer; carry proof of registration travel.state.gov.
Eco-Tip: Use digital visa copies to reduce paper waste; opt for bicycles or motorbike taxis after entry for sustainable travel.
Tip: Apply for DL visas 1–2 months early; double-check details to match passport; carry small VND notes for local purchases; check visa status at evisa.gov.vn for initial e-visas. For embassy visas, contact the nearest Vietnamese embassy (e.g., Bangkok: +66 2 251 5836, Beijing: +86 10 6532 1155).
Pack for a comfortable, sustainable visit:
Documents: Passport (valid 6+ months), printed DL visa ($25–$100 or 625,000–2,500,000 VND), sponsorship letter, work permit, passport photocopy, proof of residence registration, wallet ($2 or 50,000 VND), tour bookings.
Clothing: Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees for temple visits; lightweight scarf ($1 or 25,000 VND); quick-dry clothing and raincoat ($2 or 50,000 VND) for wet season; lightweight clothing like cotton or linen and light jacket ($3 or 75,000 VND) for dry season; waterproof shoes ($3 or 75,000 VND); hat ($2 or 50,000 VND).
Essentials: Reusable water bottle ($2 or 50,000 VND); snacks ($0.20–$1 or 5,000–25,000 VND, e.g., pho); small backpack ($2 or 50,000 VND); sunscreen ($1 or 25,000 VND); insect repellent ($1 or 25,000 VND).
Tech: Phone with translation apps (e.g., Google Translate); charger ($3–$5 or 75,000–125,000 VND); local SIM ($2–$3 or 50,000–75,000 VND); waterproof camera ($6 or 150,000 VND) for photos.
Eco Items: Reusable tote ($1 or 25,000 VND) for purchases; phrase card ($1 or 25,000 VND) with Vietnamese basics.
Extras: Small VND notes for donations or purchases; small first aid kit ($2 or 50,000 VND); umbrella ($2 or 50,000 VND) for wet season; money belt ($2 or 50,000 VND) for valuables. Tip: Pack light (1 small bag, max 5 kg); reusable items support sustainability.
Visa and Travel Costs
DL Visa Costs: $25–$100 (625,000–2,500,000 VND), depending on visa type and processing time vietnam-visa.com.
Work Permit Costs: $100–$200 (2,500,000–5,000,000 VND); residence card: $100 (2,500,000 VND) vietnam-visa.com.
E-Visa Costs (for Initial Entry): Single entry: $25 (625,000 VND); multiple entry: $50 (1,250,000 VND); expedited processing: $10–$30 (250,000–750,000 VND) evisa.gov.vn.
Self-Guided Exploration: Entry: free (markets); Hoi An: $5–$7 (125,000–175,000 VND); Temple of Literature: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND); transport (bicycle: $1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND/day; motorbike taxi: $0.50–$2 or 12,500–50,000 VND).
Group Cultural Tours: $25–$40 (625,000–1,000,000 VND, includes transport and entry).
Combo Cultural and Adventure Tours: $30–$50 (750,000–1,250,000 VND, includes entry).
Multi-Day Cultural and Adventure Tours: $80–$200 (2,000,000–5,000,000 VND, includes entries). Safety-Related Costs
Money Belt: $2 (50,000 VND).
Local SIM for Emergency Calls: $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND).
Travel Insurance (Recommended): $10–$30 (250,000–750,000 VND). Other Costs
Local Snacks (e.g., banh mi, pho): $0.20–$1 (5,000–25,000 VND).
Souvenirs (e.g., crafts, textiles): $0.20–$10 (5,000–250,000 VND).
Donations: $0.20–$1 (5,000–25,000 VND). Total Daily Cost (Per Person)
Budget: $15–$40 (self-guided, snacks, transport, entry).
Mid-range: $40–$70 (group tour, purchases).
Luxury: $70–$120 (private tour, premium souvenirs). Tip: Budget $15–$120 for tours, visa costs (if applicable), and transport; $0.20–$10 for purchases or add-ons; use e-visas to save on initial entry costs.
Visa Tips: All workers require a DL visa sponsored by a Vietnamese employer; obtain work permit first through MOLISA; apply at Vietnamese embassies or consulates; use e-visas for initial entry if eligible vietnam-visa.com.
Etiquette: Use “xin chào”; dress modestly for temples; respect local customs; avoid littering at cultural sites.
Access: Choose self-guided exploration for flexibility, group tours for visa-compliant insights, or multi-day tours for immersion.
Schedules: Cultural sites open 8:00 AM–5:00 PM; markets open 6:00 AM–6:00 PM; peak crowds in dry season (January–August); book early for festivals.
Sustainability: Use bicycles or motorbike taxis; carry reusable items; support local vendors with fair purchases.
Navigation: Use PassApp for ride-hailing; offline maps (Maps.me) for cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City.
Weather: Dry season (Jan–Aug, 18–33°C) ideal; hot period (Apr–Aug, 24–33°C) suits early mornings; wet season (Sep–Dec, 24–31°C) requires rain gear; check forecasts via weather.com.
Safety Note: Secure valuables with a money belt ($2 or 50,000 VND); beware of pickpocketing in markets or nightlife areas; carry emergency numbers (Police: 113, Medical: 115, nearest embassy).
Do workers need a visa for Vietnam? Yes, a DL visa sponsored by a Vietnamese employer; no exemptions for work purposes vietnam-visa.com.
How do workers apply for a Vietnam visa? Obtain work permit from MOLISA, then apply for DL visa at a Vietnamese embassy with sponsorship letter and fees travel.state.gov.
How much does a Vietnam work visa cost? DL visa: $25–$100 (625,000–2,500,000 VND); work permit: $100–$200 (2,500,000–5,000,000 VND); residence card: $100 (2,500,000 VND) vietnam-visa.com.
Can work visas be extended? Yes, through MOLISA with employer sponsorship; fees vary ($25–$100 or 625,000–2,500,000 VND) vietnam-visa.com.
What are the penalties for overstaying? Fines of 500,000 VND/day ($20/day); potential exit bans or deportation travel.state.gov.
Is Visa on Arrival available for workers? No, discontinued in 2022; use DL visas or e-visas for initial entry vietnam-visa.com.
Enhance your visa-prepared Vietnam journey with eco-conscious tours from Legend Travel Group:
Vietnam Cultural Eco-Tour ($25–$40/person, 1 day): Guided temple and market tour with sustainable practices.
Vietnam Cultural and Adventure Trail ($80–$150/person, 2 days): Explore cultural sites and eco-friendly activities.
Vietnam Explorer ($150–$250/person, 3 days): Multi-site adventure with eco-lodges and community-focused activities. Prices include guides, transport, and entry fees; group discounts available. Explore options at legendtravelgroup.com or contact sales@legendtravelgroup.com / WhatsApp (+84825862222) for your Vietnam Travel plans.
Mastering Vietnam Immigration Visa for Workers with cultural etiquette—modest attire, polite greetings like “xin chào,” and visa-smart planning—unlocks a vibrant, eco-friendly journey through this Southeast Asian gem. With tour costs from $15–$200, sustainable Vietnam Tours, and attractions like Hoi An and Ha Long Bay, this trip offers adventure and sustainability for international workers. Whether choosing a self-guided or guided experience with Vietnam Travel, leverage DL visas and work permits for employment, and respect local customs for the best experience. Note that Visa on Arrival is no longer available; plan accordingly. Safe travels!
Sources:
vietnam-visa.com
evisa.gov.vn
travel.state.gov
vinpearl.com
vietnam.travel
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