Comprehensive Guide to Obtaining a Vietnam Visit Visa for Foreign Nationals

The Vietnam Visit Visa is issued to foreign nationals wishing to enter Vietnam to visit family members or relatives residing in the country. Understanding the application process and preparing the necessary documents can facilitate a smooth and efficient visa acquisition. Below is a detailed guide on how foreign nationals can apply for a Vietnam Visit Visa.

1. Eligible Applicants for the Visit Visa

According to Article 8 of Law No. 47/2014/QH13 and the amended Law No. 51/2019/QH14, the visit visa is granted to the following individuals:

Foreign nationals who are parents, spouses, or children of Vietnamese citizens.

Foreign nationals who are spouses or children under 18 years old of foreign nationals holding visas or temporary residence cards with the following designations:

• LV1, LV2: Working with Vietnamese agencies or organizations.
• LS: Practicing lawyers in Vietnam.
• ĐT1, ĐT2, ĐT3, ĐT4: Foreign investors.
• NN1, NN2: Heads of representative offices or branches of foreign organizations in Vietnam.
• DH: Studying or interning.
• PV1: Resident journalists.
• LĐ1, LĐ2: Employment.

2. Duration of the Visit Visa

The visit visa is valid for up to 12 months, depending on the purpose and submitted documentation. Holders of the visit visa may enter Vietnam once or multiple times within the visa’s validity period.

3. Conditions for Obtaining the Visit Visa

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Have a relative who is a Vietnamese citizen or a foreign national legally residing in Vietnam.
• Provide documents proving familial relationships, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, household registration books, etc.
• Possess a passport valid for at least six months from the intended date of entry.
• Not fall under any category prohibited from entering Vietnam.

4. Required Documents for the Family Visit Visa Application

The application dossier includes:

• For the sponsor (relative in Vietnam):
  • A sponsorship application form for foreign relatives entering Vietnam (Form NA3).
  • A notarized copy of the sponsor’s ID card or passport.
  • A notarized copy of the household registration book.
  • Documents proving the familial relationship (birth certificate, marriage certificate, etc.).
• For the applicant (foreign national):
  • The original passport is valid for at least six months.
  • Two 4×6 cm photos with a white background, taken within the last six months.
  • Visa application form (Form NA5).
  • Documents proving the relationship with the sponsor.

5. Application Process for the Visit Visa

The process involves the following steps:

1. Prepare the documents: Both the sponsor and the applicant should gather all required documents as listed in section 4.
2. Apply:
   • If the applicant is abroad: The sponsor submits the application to the Immigration Department or the Immigration Office of the Public Security Department in the province/city where they reside.
   • If the applicant is in Vietnam: Apply directly to the Immigration Department or the Immigration Office of the Public Security Department in the province/city where they temporarily reside.
3. Await processing: The processing time is typically 5-7 working days.
4. Receive the visa: Once approved, the applicant can collect the visa at the Vietnamese Embassy/Consulate abroad or the Immigration Department if they are in Vietnam.

6. Important Notes

Documents proving familial relationships issued abroad must be legalized and translated into Vietnamese before submission. The visa’s validity depends on the specific case and the decision of the competent authority. Holders of the Visit Visa are not permitted to work in Vietnam unless they obtain a valid work permit.