Plan your Vietnam work visa application with our guide for international applicants! Learn about requirements, 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.
Applicants, please note: Vietnam's work visa (also known as a business visa or work permit) requires sponsorship from a Vietnamese employer or organization. International applicants can apply for a work visa through a Vietnamese embassy or consulate, or obtain a business e-visa for initial entry before securing a work permit. This guide details the work visa application process, requirements, and travel tips for a seamless journey into Vietnam for work purposes.
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 the work visa application requirements ensures smooth entry for international professionals seeking employment or business opportunities, whether joining guided Vietnam Tours during downtime or traveling for work. Applicants from all countries must secure sponsorship and apply through embassies or use business e-visas, facilitating entry through Vietnam’s 13 international airports, 16 land borders, and 13 seaports vietnam.travel. This guide provides practical visa insights, cultural tips, and eco-friendly Vietnam Travel options for international applicants.
Following Vietnam’s updated travel regulations, the country is accessible via multiple entry points, with work visas requiring employer sponsorship. This guide blends work visa requirements, application processes, and sustainable Vietnam Travel ideas for a worry-free adventure.
International applicants require employer sponsorship for work visas, with costs ranging from $25–$100 (625,000–2,500,000 VND) for visas and $25–$155 (625,000–3,875,000 VND) for work permits. 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 with local police is required within 24 hours, typically handled by employers or hotels. Verify visa requirements via evisa.gov.vn or travel.state.gov.
Business E-Visa (For Initial Entry)
Purpose: Business activities or initial entry for work setup; can lead to a work permit.
Eligibility: Available to citizens of 80 countries, including the US, Canada, Australia, India, and most EU nations 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., employer or hotel 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 immigration 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 vietnam-visa.com.
Entry/Exit Points: Valid at 13 airports (e.g., Noi Bai, Tan Son Nhat, Da Nang), 16 land borders (e.g., Moc Bai, Lao Cai, Mong Cai), and 13 seaports evisa.gov.vn.
Work Visa (Embassy/Consulate Visa with Work Permit)
Purpose: Long-term employment or business; requires sponsorship from a Vietnamese employer.
Eligibility: Available to all nationalities with a sponsor (e.g., Vietnamese company) travel.state.gov.
Duration: Typically 1–2 years, renewable vietnam-visa.com.
Cost: Visa: $25–$100 (625,000–2,500,000 VND); work permit: $25–$155 (625,000–3,875,000 VND) depending on duration and type vietnam-visa.com.
Application Process:
Obtain sponsorship from a Vietnamese employer, who applies for work permit approval from the Ministry of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs (MOLISA) vietnam-visa.com.
Apply for the visa at a Vietnamese embassy/consulate with the approval letter, passport, application form, photos (4x6 cm), and fees travel.state.gov.
Upon entry, apply for the work permit within 15 days at the provincial Department of Labor vietnam-visa.com.
Apply for a temporary residence card (TRC) for stays over 1 year, valid for 1–5 years vietnam-visa.com.
Processing Time: Visa: 5–10 working days at embassy; work permit: 7–15 working days vietnam-visa.com.
Extension: Work visas and permits extendable with sponsor approval; fees vary ($25–$155 or 625,000–3,875,000 VND) vietnam-visa.com.
Entry/Exit Points: Valid at all international checkpoints vietnam.travel.
Key Restrictions:
Applicants 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. Applicants must use business e-visas or embassy visas for work-related entry vietnam-visa.com.
Passport: Valid for at least 6 months from entry date with two blank pages travel.state.gov.
Work Visa Application: Requires sponsorship letter from Vietnamese employer, approval from MOLISA, passport, photos, and fees; ensure details match passport vietnam-visa.com.
Residence Registration: Mandatory within 24 hours, typically handled by employers or hotels; carry proof of registration travel.state.gov.
Work Permit: Required for long-term work; apply after entry with sponsor vietnam-visa.com.
Cultural etiquette ensures a smooth integration during Vietnam Tours, complementing work visa preparation. 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 workplaces or markets culturetrip.com.
Dress: Wear modest, professional clothing covering shoulders and knees for work or temple visits (e.g., Temple of Literature); a lightweight scarf ($1 or 25,000 VND) aligns with local norms vinpearl.com.
Behaviour: Maintain a calm demeanor at work or cultural sites; avoid loud behavior or disputes; ask permission before photographing locals or rituals; carry work visa or permit securely to verify status. Avoid public criticism of the Vietnamese government (penalties apply). A guest shared: “Respecting Vietnamese customs eased our work visa integration 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 (handled by employers) 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 work visa handy for checks. Tony Bùi notes: “In 20 years guiding, I’ve seen work visa applicants 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 workplace rules (e.g., punctuality); respect local vendors with fair purchases in markets.
Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) for cities like Hanoi or Hoi An; carry a printed work 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) for work commutes 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 Ho Chi Minh City’s Cu Chi Tunnels independently after securing a work visa; suitable for applicants with valid visas or permits; low to moderate difficulty vietnam.travel.
Visa Tips: Use a work visa with sponsor; carry a printed visa or passport photocopy; register temporary residence at workplaces or hotels 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); Cu Chi Tunnels open 7:00 AM–5:00 PM ($5 or 125,000 VND).
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, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
Eco-Friendly Note: Use bicycles or walk to reduce emissions; avoid littering at cultural sites.
Tip: Confirm work visa sponsorship; check vietnam-visa.com; a guest from the US noted: “Self-guided exploration was smooth with the work visa.”
Details: 1-day group tour visiting Hanoi’s Old Quarter and Temple of Literature for work visa holders; includes English-speaking guide, transport from Hanoi hotels, lunch, and entry fees; low difficulty.
Visa Tips: Ensure valid work visa or permit; 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 Canada 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 for work visa holders; includes English-speaking guide, transport from Hoi An, lunch, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty.
Visa Tips: Use a work visa for long-term 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 India noted: “The combo tour was visa-ready and enriching.”
Details: 2–3 day tour combining Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, and Hoi An for work visa holders; includes English-speaking guide, transport, accommodation, meals, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty.
Visa Tips: Use a work visa with sponsor for extended 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 Australia noted: “The multi-day tour was a visa-smart cultural journey.”
Self-Guided Exploration: Flexible and cost-effective, ideal for work visa holders with navigation skills.
Group Cultural Tours: Affordable and guided, perfect for cultural insights during work downtime.
Combo Cultural and Adventure Tours: Blend cultural visits with eco-friendly activities for a comprehensive experience.
Multi-Day Cultural Tours: Offer in-depth exploration with work visa-smart itineraries.
Eco-Friendly Note: Group and multi-day tours use fuel-efficient transport, supporting Vietnam’s green tourism goals.
Key work visa application 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 work visa holders and cultural visits. Hot period (April–August, 24–33°C) suits early morning outings. Wet season (September–December, 24–31°C) is best for indoor activities; expect rain. Morning visits (6:00 AM–10:00 AM) avoid heat or rain. Verify forecasts via weather.com.
Verify Visa Needs: Secure sponsorship from a Vietnamese employer; apply for a work visa through embassies or use business e-visas for initial entry; work permits required after arrival vietnam-visa.com.
Documentation: Ensure passport validity (6+ months); gather sponsorship letter, approval from MOLISA, passport, photos, and fees; apply at Vietnamese embassies travel.state.gov.
Residence Registration: Confirm employers or hotels register your stay with local police within 24 hours; carry proof of registration travel.state.gov.
Eco-Tip: Use digital applications to reduce paper waste; opt for bicycles or motorbike taxis for sustainable commutes.
Tip: Apply for work visas 1–2 months early; double-check details to match passport; carry small VND notes for local purchases; check visa status at Vietnamese embassies. For extensions, consult MOLISA vietnam-visa.com.
Pack for a comfortable, sustainable visit:
Documents: Passport (valid 6+ months), sponsorship letter, work visa approval, printed business e-visa ($25–$50 or 625,000–1,250,000 VND if required), passport photocopy, wallet ($2 or 50,000 VND), tour bookings.
Clothing: Modest, professional clothing covering shoulders and knees for work or 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
Work Visa Costs: Visa: $25–$100 (625,000–2,500,000 VND); work permit: $25–$155 (625,000–3,875,000 VND); business e-visa: $25–$50 (625,000–1,250,000 VND) vietnam-visa.com.
Extension Costs: Work visa/permit extensions: $25–$155 (625,000–3,875,000 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/work permit costs, and transport; $0.20–$10 for purchases or add-ons; use business e-visas to save on initial entry costs.
Visa Tips: Secure sponsorship from a Vietnamese employer; apply for work visas through embassies or use business e-visas for initial entry; work permits required after arrival 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 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).
Who needs a work visa for Vietnam? All international applicants require sponsorship and a work visa/permit for employment; business e-visas can be used for initial entry vietnam-visa.com.
How do international applicants apply for a Vietnam work visa? Secure sponsorship; apply through Vietnamese embassies with approval letter; obtain work permit after entry travel.state.gov.
How much does a Vietnam work visa cost? Visa: $25–$100 (625,000–2,500,000 VND); work permit: $25–$155 (625,000–3,875,000 VND) vietnam-visa.com.
Can work visas be extended? Yes, with sponsor approval; fees vary ($25–$155 or 625,000–3,875,000 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 work? No, discontinued in 2022; use business e-visas or embassy visas for work-related entry vietnam-visa.com.
Enhance your work visa application 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 Work Visa Application 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 professional opportunities and sustainability for international applicants. Whether choosing a self-guided or guided experience with Vietnam Travel, secure sponsorship and apply through embassies or use business e-visas, and respect local customs for the best experience. Safe travels!
Sources:
vietnam-visa.com
travel.state.gov
evisa.gov.vn
vinpearl.com
vietnam.travel
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