Vietnam Business Visa: Requirements, Application, and Fees

Planning a business trip to Vietnam for meetings, contract negotiations, conferences, or market exploration? A Vietnam business visa (coded as DN1 or DN2) is essential for short-term commercial activities unless you qualify for visa exemption. This guide provides the latest information as of December 2025 on types, requirements, application methods, fees, and tips for a smooth process.

Vietnam business visa

Overview of Vietnam Business Visa

Vietnam offers specific visas for business purposes:

  • DN1: For foreigners working with or visiting Vietnamese companies/organizations with legal status (e.g., attending meetings, signing contracts).
  • DN2: For offering services, establishing commercial presence, or activities under international treaties.

These visas are typically valid for up to 12 months (often issued for 3 months initially), with single or multiple entries. For short business trips (up to 90 days), many travelers use the standard e-visa by selecting “business” as the purpose—no separate “business visa” category needed.

Longer stays or employment may require a work permit and different visa (LD1/LD2). Always check if your nationality qualifies for visa-free entry (e.g., 14-45 days for certain countries).

Do You Need a Business Visa for Vietnam?

Most foreign nationals need a visa for business activities. Exceptions include visa-exempt countries for short stays. For pure tourism-related scouting (e.g., finding opportunities without formal meetings), a tourist e-visa may suffice up to 90 days.

Vietnam E-Visa for Business Purposes

The e-visa is the simplest and most recommended option for business travelers in 2025. Available to all nationalities, it’s valid for up to 90 days (single or multiple entry) and covers business activities.

Is E-Visa Suitable for Business?

Yes! Select “Business” or similar purpose during application. It’s fully online, no sponsor required for standard cases.

Requirements for Vietnam E-Visa (Business)

  • Passport valid for at least 6 months from arrival date, with 2 blank pages.
  • Digital passport scan (.jpg).
  • Recent passport-sized photo (.jpg, white background, no glasses).
  • Valid email and payment card.

How to Apply for E-Visa

  1. Visit the official portal: https://evisa.gov.vn
  2. Fill the form (select business purpose, entry/exit dates, port).
  3. Upload documents.
  4. Pay the fee online ($25 single / $50 multiple, non-refundable).
  5. Receive e-visa PDF via email in 3-7 working days.
  6. Print and present with passport on arrival (valid at 83+ ports: air, land, sea).

Processing: 3-7 working days (apply early; avoid holidays).

Traditional Business Visa (DN1/DN2) via Embassy or Sponsored Approval

For longer-term or specific business needs (beyond 90 days e-visa), apply for DN1/DN2. This requires sponsorship from a Vietnamese company.

Requirements

  • Sponsorship/invitation letter from a licensed Vietnamese entity.
  • Passport (6+ months validity).
  • Application form, photos.
  • Approval letter from Vietnam Immigration (obtained by sponsor).

How to Apply

  • Sponsor in Vietnam submits for approval letter (5-7+ working days).
  • Apply at Vietnamese embassy/consulate abroad with approval letter, or use it for limited visa on arrival (air only, urgent cases).
  • Processing at embassy: 3-5 days.

Visa on Arrival for Business

Visa on Arrival (VOA) is now restricted to urgent/emergency cases or sponsored business (air entry only). It requires a pre-approval letter from a sponsor/agent. E-visa is preferred for most travelers—faster and no airport queue.

If needed:

  • Obtain approval letter via agent/sponsor.
  • Pay stamping fee in cash at airport ($25-135 USD depending on type).

Vietnam Business Visa Fees

  • E-Visa: $25 USD (single-entry 90 days) / $50 USD (multiple-entry 90 days).
  • DN1/DN2 (Embassy/Sponsored): Varies by embassy + stamping fees (contact consulate).
  • Additional agent fees for approval letters (if used).

Fees are non-refundable.

Common FAQs – Vietnam Business Visa

Q: Can I use a tourist e-visa for business meetings? A: Yes, for short trips; select appropriate purpose. Pure employment needs work permit.

Q: How to extend a business visa? A: Apply in Vietnam via sponsor/immigration for extension or new visa.

Q: Is sponsorship always required? A: No for e-visa (up to 90 days); yes for longer DN1/DN2.

Q: What if entering by land/sea? A: E-visa works at many borders; confirm eligible ports.

Q: Urgent processing available? A: Limited expedited for e-visa; contact official portal.