Plan your investment journey in Vietnam with our guide to investor visa requirements! Learn about DT visa types, application processes, costs, cultural site visits, eco-friendly Vietnam Tours, and top providers for a seamless experience with Vietnam Travel. Start your journey today!
Capture the authentic charm of Vietnam’s cultural scene (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, emerhub.com, harveylawcorporation.com, aseanbriefing.com, and vietnam-briefing.com. 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 investor visas (DT visas) through Vietnamese embassies or upon arrival with approval letters (for certain cases), or use e-visas for initial entry. This guide details investor visa requirements, application processes, and travel tips for a seamless investment journey in Vietnam.
Vietnam, a dynamic Southeast Asian economy, is renowned for its investment opportunities in sectors like manufacturing, real estate, and tourism, alongside cultural landmarks like Hoi An’s ancient town and Ha Long Bay’s limestone karsts vinpearl.com. Understanding investor visa (DT visa) requirements ensures smooth entry for foreign investors from all countries, whether joining guided Vietnam Tours or establishing business ventures. DT visas are issued based on investment levels, offering durations from 1 to 4 years, with pathways to permanent residency emerhub.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 supports foreign investment with streamlined visa processes and infrastructure like Noi Bai and Tan Son Nhat airports. This guide blends investor visa requirements, application processes, and sustainable Vietnam Travel ideas for a worry-free investment adventure.
International investors from all countries can apply for DT visas based on investment capital: DT4 for < VND 3 billion (~US$120,000), DT3 for VND 3–50 billion (~US$120,000–2 million), DT2 for VND 50–100 billion (~US$2–4 million), DT1 for ≥ VND 100 billion (~US$4 million) or prioritized sectors. 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). Temporary residence registration is required within 14 days at local immigration offices. Verify visa requirements via vietnam-visa.com or travel.state.gov.
Investor Visa (DT Visa):
Purpose: For foreign investors establishing or contributing to businesses in Vietnam.
Eligibility: Available to investors from all countries with qualifying investment capital or in prioritized sectors/geographies emerhub.com.
Duration:
DT4: Up to 1 year for investments < VND 3 billion (~US$120,000).
DT3: Up to 2 years for investments VND 3–50 billion (~US$120,000–2 million).
DT2: Up to 3 years for investments VND 50–100 billion (~US$2–4 million).
DT1: Up to 4 years for investments ≥ VND 100 billion (~US$4 million) or in prioritized industries/areas aseanbriefing.com.
Cost: Application fees vary ($25–$100 or 625,000–2,500,000 VND), depending on visa type and processing time vietnam-visa.com.
Application Process:
Establish a business in Vietnam and obtain an Investment Registration Certificate (IRC) from the Department of Planning and Investment harveylawcorporation.com.
Submit visa application at a Vietnamese embassy or through a sponsor in Vietnam for an approval letter vietnam-visa.com.
Enter Vietnam with the approval letter (visa on arrival for certain cases) or collect the visa from the embassy vietnam-visa.com.
Apply for a Temporary Residence Card (TRC) upon arrival, valid for the visa duration vietnam-briefing.com.
For extensions, apply through the Immigration Department with proof of ongoing investment vietnam-visa.com.
For permanent residency, apply after 3 years of continuous residence with a DT visa luatvietnam.vn.
Processing Time: 15–30 days for embassy visas; 3–7 days for e-visas (initial entry); TRC processing 5–10 days vietnam-visa.com.
Extension: Extendable based on investment status; fees vary ($10–$155 or 250,000–3,875,000 VND) vietnam-visa.com.
Entry/Exit Points: Valid at 13 airports (e.g., Noi Bai, Tan Son Nhat), 16 land borders, and 13 seaports vietnam.travel.
E-Visa (For Initial Entry or Short Stays):
Purpose: Tourism or business for initial entry before applying for DT visa.
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 vietnam-visa.com.
Requirements: Passport valid for 6 months with two blank pages; digital passport photo and scan; payment via card evisa.gov.vn.
Extension: Non-extendable; requires exit and re-entry vietnam-visa.com.
Key Restrictions:
Investors must register businesses and obtain IRC; failure to maintain investment may revoke visa emerhub.com.
Temporary residence registration is mandatory within 14 days at local immigration offices travel.state.gov.
Overstay penalties: 500,000 VND/day ($20/day); potential exit bans or deportation travel.state.gov.
Important Note: Visa on Arrival was discontinued in 2022; use e-visas or embassy visas for entry vietnam-visa.com.
Passport: Valid for at least 6 months from entry date with two blank pages travel.state.gov.
Investment Documents: Investment Registration Certificate (IRC), business license, proof of capital contribution emerhub.com.
Application Support: Sponsor or legal representative in Vietnam required for DT visa; embassy application needs form, photos, and fees vietnam-visa.com.
Residence Registration: Mandatory within 14 days at local immigration offices; carry proof travel.state.gov.
Cultural etiquette ensures a smooth experience during Vietnam Tours, complementing investor visa preparation. Here’s your guide, based on current norms:
Greetings: Offer a “xin chào” (hello) with a slight nod; use both hands for business cards or documents to show respect, especially during investment meetings culturetrip.com.
Dress: Wear business attire (suits, modest clothing) for meetings; modest clothing covering shoulders and knees for temple visits (e.g., Temple of Literature); carry a lightweight scarf ($1 or 25,000 VND) vinpearl.com.
Behaviour: Maintain a calm demeanor in meetings or cultural sites; ask permission before photographing locals or rituals; carry passport or visa photocopy securely. Avoid public criticism of the Vietnamese government (penalties apply). A guest shared: “Respecting Vietnamese customs eased our investor 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; complete residence registration within 14 days travel.state.gov.
Tip: Say “cảm ơn” (thank you) to locals or business partners; 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 investor travelers 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 business etiquette (punctuality, gift-giving); respect local vendors with fair purchases in markets.
Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) for cities like Hanoi or Hoi An; carry a printed visa or passport photocopy 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 investor visa-prepared journey, based on the latest data from vietnam-visa.com, emerhub.com, harveylawcorporation.com, aseanbriefing.com, and vietnam-briefing.com. Confirm schedules and prices before booking.
Details: Explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Hoi An’s ancient town, or Ha Long Bay independently after obtaining your DT visa; suitable for investors with valid visas; low to moderate difficulty vietnam.travel.
Visa Tips: Use DT visas for business stays; carry a printed visa or passport photocopy; register temporary residence at hotels or offices emerhub.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 DT visa eligibility with IRC; check vietnam-visa.com; a guest investor noted: “Self-guided exploration was smooth with the DT 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 DT 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 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 DT visas for business 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 investor 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 DT visas for business 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 investor noted: “The multi-day tour was a visa-smart cultural journey.”
Self-Guided Exploration: Flexible and cost-effective, ideal for investors with DT 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 investor visa-prepared travel opportunities include:
Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year): Typically late January to February, vibrant with temple ceremonies; 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.
Business 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 meetings 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 meetings; expect rain. Morning visits (6:00 AM–10:00 AM) avoid heat or rain. Verify forecasts via weather.com.
Verify Visa Needs: Apply for DT visas based on investment level (DT1–DT4); obtain IRC and business license first; use e-visas for initial entry emerhub.com.
Documentation: Ensure passport validity (6+ months); carry IRC, business license, proof of capital; apply through embassies or sponsors vietnam-visa.com.
Residence Registration: Complete within 14 days at local immigration offices; carry proof travel.state.gov.
Eco-Tip: Use digital documents to reduce paper waste; opt for bicycles or motorbike taxis for sustainable travel.
Tip: Apply for DT visas after business setup (15–30 days processing); double-check details; carry small VND notes for local purchases; contact Vietnamese embassies for assistance (e.g., Phnom Penh: +855 23 726 274).
Pack for a comfortable, sustainable visit:
Documents: Passport (valid 6+ months), investor visa (DT visa), IRC, business license, wallet ($2 or 50,000 VND), tour bookings.
Clothing: Business attire for meetings; 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., banh mi); 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
Investor Visa Costs: Application fees $25–$100 (625,000–2,500,000 VND); TRC fees $10–$50 (250,000–1,250,000 VND) vietnam-visa.com.
E-Visa Costs (Initial Entry): Single entry: $25 (625,000 VND); multiple entry: $50 (1,250,000 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, and transport; $0.20–$10 for purchases or add-ons; use visa exemptions to save on costs.
Visa Tips: Apply for DT visas after obtaining IRC and business license; use e-visas for initial entry; DT1–DT4 based on investment level; apply at embassies or through sponsors emerhub.com.
Etiquette: Use “xin chào”; dress in business attire for meetings; 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 are the requirements for a Vietnam investor visa? Establish a business with minimum capital (VND 3–100 billion depending on DT type), obtain IRC, valid passport, and sponsor emerhub.com.
How much investment is needed for a Vietnam investor visa? DT4: < VND 3 billion (~US$120,000); DT3: VND 3–50 billion; DT2: VND 50–100 billion; DT1: ≥ VND 100 billion or prioritized sectors aseanbriefing.com.
How do I apply for a Vietnam investor visa? Obtain IRC, submit application at embassy or through sponsor for approval letter, enter Vietnam, apply for TRC vietnam-visa.com.
Can investor visas be extended? Yes, based on ongoing investment; fees $10–$155 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 there a path to permanent residency? Yes, after 3 years of continuous residence with DT visa luatvietnam.vn.
Enhance your investor 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 Requirements 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 sustainability for international investors. Whether choosing a self-guided or guided experience with Vietnam Travel, apply for DT visas after business setup and respect local customs for the best experience. Safe travels!
Sources:
vietnam-visa.com
emerhub.com
harveylawcorporation.com
aseanbriefing.com
vietnam-briefing.com
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