Plan your Vietnam investment with our guide to the DT4 investor visa! Learn about requirements, benefits, application processes, cultural site visits, eco-friendly Vietnam Tours, and top providers for a seamless experience with Vietnam Travel. Start your journey today!
Embrace the vibrant energy of Vietnam’s cultural heritage (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.
Travelers, please note: The Visa on Arrival (VOA) program was discontinued in 2022. International investors can apply for the DT4 investor visa through a Vietnamese embassy or immigration office, or use e-visas for initial entry before converting to DT4. This guide details DT4 visa requirements for foreign investors, application processes, and travel tips for a seamless investment journey in Vietnam.
Vietnam, a dynamic Southeast Asian destination, is renowned for its investment opportunities and cultural landmarks like Hanoi’s Temple of Literature, Hoi An’s ancient town, and Ha Long Bay’s natural beauty vinpearl.com. Understanding the DT4 investor visa requirements ensures smooth entry and residency for foreign investors, whether joining guided Vietnam Tours or establishing businesses. The DT4 visa offers residency for up to 1 year, family inclusion, and the right to live, work, and study, making it ideal for investors with capital under VND 3 billion (about USD 120,000) vietnam-visa.com. This guide provides practical visa insights, cultural tips, and eco-friendly Vietnam Travel options for international investors.
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 DT4 investors, application processes, and sustainable Vietnam Travel ideas for a worry-free investment adventure.
Foreign investors can apply for the DT4 visa (1-year validity) with investment capital under VND 3 billion (USD 120,000), requiring a legal entity, IRC/ERC, and embassy application ($25–$100 or 625,000–2,500,000 VND). Passports must be valid for at least 6 months with two blank pages. Cultural site entries like Hanoi’s Temple of Literature cost $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND); guided tours range from $15–$80 (375,000–2,000,000 VND). Temporary residence registration with local police is required within 24 hours, typically handled by hotels or offices. Verify visa requirements via evisa.gov.vn or travel.state.gov.
DT4 Investor Visa:
Purpose: Residency for foreign investors establishing or contributing to businesses in Vietnam.
Eligibility: Foreign nationals investing in a Vietnamese legal entity (e.g., LLC, JSC) with capital under VND 3 billion (about USD 120,000); generally expected USD 50,000–70,000 minimum vietnam-visa.com.
Duration: Up to 1 year (12 months), renewable vietnam-visa.com.
Cost: Application fees $25–$100 (625,000–2,500,000 VND), depending on processing time and embassy travel.state.gov.
Application Process:
Establish a Vietnamese legal entity (e.g., LLC) and obtain Investment Registration Certificate (IRC) and Enterprise Registration Certificate (ERC) from the Department of Planning and Investment vietnam-visa.com.
Gather documents: passport, application form, two passport photos (4x6 cm), IRC/ERC copies, proof of investment (e.g., bank statements, capital contribution documents), and police clearance certificate vietnam-visa.com.
Apply at a Vietnamese embassy or consulate (e.g., in Bangkok, Beijing, or Phnom Penh) in person or by mail; submit documents and pay fees travel.state.gov.
Processing time: 5–15 working days; collect visa or receive by mail vietnam-visa.com.
Upon entry, apply for Temporary Residence Card (TRC) within 15 days at the Immigration Department for extended stay privileges vietnam-visa.com.
Family members (spouse, children) can apply for dependent visas (DT4-linked) with proof of relationship vietnam-visa.com.
Extension: Renewable for another 1 year with proof of ongoing investment; fees $10–$30 (250,000–750,000 VND) vietnam-visa.com.
Entry/Exit Points: Valid at all 13 airports, 16 land borders, and 13 seaports vietnam.travel.
DT1, DT2, DT3 Investor Visas (Higher Tiers):
DT1: 5 years for investment > VND 100 billion (USD 4 million).
DT2: 3 years for VND 50–100 billion (USD 2–4 million).
DT3: 3 years for VND 3–50 billion (USD 120,000–2 million).
DT4: 1 year for < VND 3 billion (USD 120,000).
Eligibility: Similar to DT4 but with higher investment thresholds; TRC eligible for DT1–DT3 vietnam-visa.com.
E-Visa (For Initial Entry):
Purpose: Tourism or business for initial entry before converting to DT4.
Eligibility: Available to 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: See e-visa steps in the guide; use for border entry before DT4 application evisa.gov.vn.
Key Restrictions:
Investors 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 hotels or offices 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. Foreign investors must use e-visas for initial entry or apply for DT4 directly at embassies vietnam-visa.com.
Passport: Valid for at least 6 months from entry date with two blank pages travel.state.gov.
Investment Proof: IRC/ERC copies, bank statements, capital contribution documents; police clearance certificate vietnam-visa.com.
TRC Application: For DT1–DT3 visas, apply for TRC after entry for extended residency benefits vietnam-visa.com.
Family Inclusion: Spouse and children can apply for dependent visas with proof of relationship vietnam-visa.com.
Cultural etiquette ensures a smooth experience during Vietnam Tours, complementing DT4 visa preparation for foreign investors. Here’s your guide, based on current norms:
Greetings: Offer a “xin chào” (hello) with a slight nod; use both hands for transactions to show respect, especially at temples or business meetings culturetrip.com.
Dress: Wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees for temple visits (e.g., Temple of Literature in Hanoi); a lightweight scarf ($1 or 25,000 VND) aligns with local norms vinpearl.com.
Behaviour: Maintain a calm demeanor at cultural sites; ask permission before photographing locals or rituals; carry passport or visa securely for checks. Avoid public criticism of the Vietnamese government (penalties apply). A guest shared: “Respecting Vietnamese customs eased our DT4 visa process 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’s ancient town culturetrip.com.
Tip: Say “cảm ơn” (thank you) to locals 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 investors 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, but translation apps are useful culturetrip.com.
Respect: Follow temple rules (avoid touching sacred items); respect local vendors with fair purchases in markets.
Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) for cities like Hanoi or Hoi An; carry DT4 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 DT4 visa-prepared journey, based on the latest data from vietnam-visa.com, travel.state.gov, evisa.gov.vn, 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 DT4 visa; suitable for investors with valid visas; low to moderate difficulty vietnam.travel.
Visa Tips: Use DT4 visa for residency; carry visa or passport photocopy; register temporary residence at hotels or offices vietnam-visa.com.
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 cruises available daily.
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 DT4 visa validity; apply for TRC after entry; a guest investor noted: “Self-guided exploration was seamless with DT4 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 DT4 visa; carry 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 investor 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 DT4 visa for residency; carry 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 investor noted: “The combo tour was DT4 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 DT4 visa for residency; carry 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 investor noted: “The multi-day tour was a DT4 visa-smart cultural journey.”
Self-Guided Exploration: Flexible and cost-effective, ideal for DT4 visa holders with residency privileges.
Group Cultural Tours: Affordable and guided, perfect for cultural insights with minimal hassle.
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 DT4 visa-smart itineraries.
Eco-Friendly Note: Group and multi-day tours use fuel-efficient transport or bicycles, supporting Vietnam’s green tourism goals.
Key DT4 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 business 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 investors and indoor meetings. Morning visits (7:00 AM–11:00 AM) avoid heat or rain. Verify forecasts via weather.com.
Verify Eligibility: Confirm investment capital under VND 3 billion (USD 120,000); establish a Vietnamese legal entity and obtain IRC/ERC vietnam-visa.com.
Application Tips: Gather documents (passport, IRC/ERC, proof of investment, police clearance); apply at Vietnamese embassies; processing 5–15 days; apply for TRC after entry (not eligible for DT4) vietnam-visa.com.
Residence Registration: Mandatory within 24 hours, handled by offices or hotels; carry proof of registration travel.state.gov.
Eco-Tip: Use digital applications to reduce paper waste; opt for bicycles or motorbike taxis for sustainable travel.
Tip: Apply for DT4 visa early; double-check details to match passport; carry small VND notes for local purchases; check visa status at Vietnamese embassies.
Pack for a comfortable, sustainable visit:
Documents: Passport (valid 6+ months), DT4 visa ($25–$100 or 625,000–2,500,000 VND), IRC/ERC copies, proof of investment (e.g., bank statements), police clearance, 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
DT4 Visa Costs: $25–$100 (625,000–2,500,000 VND), depending on processing time; TRC not eligible for DT4 vietnam-visa.com.
Extension Costs: Renewal fees $10–$30 (250,000–750,000 VND) vietnam-visa.com.
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, and transport; $0.20–$10 for purchases or add-ons; use DT4 visa for residency savings.
Visa Tips: Confirm investment capital under VND 3 billion (USD 120,000); establish a legal entity and obtain IRC/ERC; apply at Vietnamese embassies; processing 5–15 days; apply for TRC after entry (not eligible for DT4) 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 offline maps (Maps.me) for cities like Hanoi or Hoi An.
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).
What is the DT4 investor visa? A 1-year visa for foreign investors with capital under VND 3 billion (USD 120,000), offering residency and family inclusion vietnam-visa.com.
What are the requirements for DT4 visa? Establish a Vietnamese legal entity, obtain IRC/ERC, provide proof of investment, passport, and police clearance; apply at embassies vietnam-visa.com.
How much does the DT4 visa cost? $25–$100 (625,000–2,500,000 VND), depending on processing time travel.state.gov.
Can the DT4 visa be extended? Yes, renewable for another 1 year with proof of ongoing investment; fees $10–$30 (250,000–750,000 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 investors? No, discontinued in 2022; use e-visas for initial entry or apply for DT4 at embassies vietnam-visa.com.
Enhance your DT4 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 Investor Visa DT4 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 investment and cultural immersion. Whether choosing a self-guided or guided experience with Vietnam Travel, apply for DT4 visas early at embassies, 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
travel.state.gov
evisa.gov.vn
vinpearl.com
vietnam.travel
