For foreign entrepreneurs and investors looking to operate in Vietnam, choosing the right visa type is essential. The investment visa and the business visa serve different purposes, each with its own eligibility criteria, validity periods, and benefits.
Understanding the key differences between these visas helps ensure compliance with Vietnamese immigration laws while maximizing business opportunities. Additionally, for those needing expedited entry, knowing how to get an urgent Vietnam visa is crucial.
This guide explores the investment visa vs. business visa, their validity periods, and answers the question: how long is a visa valid?
What is an Investor visa?
Mục Lục
What is an Investment Visa?
Definition and Purpose
An investment visa is designed for foreign investors who establish or contribute capital to a business in Vietnam. This visa is issued to individuals who own shares in a Vietnamese company or have direct investment in a project.
The investor visa is ideal for:
- Entrepreneurs setting up a new business in Vietnam.
- Foreign investors contributing capital to Vietnamese enterprises.
- Business owners involved in long-term projects in Vietnam.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for an investment visa, applicants must:
- Hold a valid investment registration certificate.
- Have ownership in a Vietnamese company.
- Prove financial contributions to a business or project.
Validity and Duration
Many investors ask, how long is a visa valid for investment purposes? The investor visa is available in different durations:
- DT1 Visa: Valid for up to 10 years for large-scale investors.
- DT2 Visa: Issued for 5 years for mid-level investors.
- DT3 Visa: Provides a 3-year validity for smaller investments.
- DT4 Visa: Grants a 1-year stay for minimal capital contributions.
An investment visa is renewable as long as the investor maintains business operations in Vietnam.
Benefits of an Investment Visa
- Longer validity periods compared to business visas.
- Ability to apply for a temporary residence card (TRC) for extended stays.
- Facilitates work and residency rights for investors.
- Investors can sponsor family members for dependent visas.
What is a Business Visa?
Definition and Purpose
A business visa allows foreign nationals to conduct short-term business activities in Vietnam without direct investment. This visa is suitable for professionals who attend meetings, negotiate contracts or explore business opportunities in Vietnam.
Eligibility Requirements
Foreigners applying for a business visa must:
- Be invited or sponsored by a Vietnamese company.
- Provide a business purpose for their visit.
- Hold a valid passport with at least six months of validity.
Validity and Duration
The validity of a business visa depends on the type issued:
- DN1 Visa: For individuals working with a Vietnamese enterprise, valid for up to 12 months.
- DN2 Visa: For foreign representatives of international businesses, typically issued for 3 to 6 months.
Business visas are short-term and do not provide residency rights. Extensions may be granted under specific conditions.
Benefits of a Business Visa
- Faster processing time than an investment visa.
- Ideal for short-term business travel.
- Can be obtained without direct capital investment.
- Available for multiple entry options (single-entry or multiple-entry).
Investment visa in Vietnam
Key Differences Between an Investment Visa and a Business Visa
| Feature | Investment Visa | Business Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | For investors with financial contributions in Vietnam | For professionals conducting business activities |
| Eligibility | Must own shares or contribute capital to a business | Must have an invitation from a Vietnamese company |
| Validity | 1-10 years (depending on investment level) | 3-12 months |
| Residency Rights | Can apply for a temporary residence card | No residency rights |
| Sponsorship | Can sponsor family members | Cannot sponsor family members |
| Processing Time | May take several weeks | Typically processed within a few days |
How to Get an Urgent Vietnam Visa?
Steps for Expedited Visa Processing
If you need a Vietnam visa quickly, you can apply for an urgent processing service. Here’s how to get an urgent Vietnam visa efficiently:
- Choose the Right Visa Type – Determine if you need a business visa or investor visa based on your purpose in Vietnam.
- Gather Required Documents – Prepare documents such as a passport, visa application form, sponsorship letter and business license (if applicable).
- Apply via the Vietnam Immigration Office or Online – Submit your application through an authorized visa agent or directly at an embassy/consulate.
- Select Same-Day or Rush Processing – Some agencies offer same-day Vietnam visa services for urgent travel needs.
- Receive Your Visa Approval Letter – For e-visas or visa-on-arrival, an approval letter will be sent via email.
- Get Your Visa Stamped Upon Arrival – If using visa-on-arrival, present your approval letter at the Vietnamese airport to receive the official visa.
For urgent cases, using a reputable visa service can help ensure a fast turnaround for your application.
How to get an investment visa in Vietnam?
Conclusion
Choosing between an investment visa and a business visa depends on your purpose in Vietnam. If you plan to invest and stay long-term, an investment visa is the best option, offering extended validity and residency benefits. On the other hand, a business visa is suitable for short-term professional visits without requiring financial contributions.
If you require urgent processing, knowing how to get an urgent Vietnam visa can save valuable time. Understanding how long a visa is valid and meeting eligibility requirements ensures a smooth visa application process, allowing you to focus on your business ventures in Vietnam.
>>> Read more: Step-by-step guide to obtaining a Vietnam work visa
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