Vietnam Visa Guide: Options for Business and Long-Term Stays

Vietnam's economic surge has positioned it as Southeast Asia's rising investment frontier. For Barclay Club members eyeing this dynamic market, securing the right visa isn't just bureaucratic procedure—it's strategic groundwork for successful participation in Vietnam's financial landscape. As visa policies evolve to attract foreign capital, those equipped with specialized knowledge gain a distinct advantage in this rapidly developing economy.

Vietnam's Evolving Visa Landscape

Vietnam's visa system is undergoing significant transformation as the country competes with regional neighbors for foreign investment, skilled professionals, and tourism dollars. The government has incrementally liberalized entry requirements since 2022, with the latest reforms offering expanded options for investors, business travelers, and long-term residents.The most significant development is Vietnam's introduction of a multi-tiered approach where visa duration corresponds directly with investment level—prioritizing serious investors while maintaining accessibility for exploratory business activities. The much-anticipated "Golden Visa" program, under consideration for 2026-2027 implementation, would align Vietnam with competitive long-term residence programs in Malaysia, Thailand, and Singapore.For Barclay Club members contemplating Vietnam's markets, understanding this evolving framework transforms visa acquisition from administrative hurdle to strategic advantage—enabling informed planning for market entry, investment timelines, and operational requirements.

Visa-Free Entry: The Starting Point

Vietnam offers visa exemptions to citizens of 29 countries—primarily from Southeast Asia, Europe, and key Asian markets—with stay durations ranging from 14 to 45 days depending on nationality. This visa-free option provides an ideal first step for Barclay Club members conducting preliminary market assessment, attending conferences, or engaging in exploratory business meetings.Who Qualifies: Citizens from South Korea, Japan, and most ASEAN nations can enter without visas for 14-45 days. This exemption extends to certain European nationals, though durations vary.Key Limitations: Visa-free entries allow business exploration but prohibit employment or formal business operations. Additionally, these entries cannot be extended within Vietnam—requiring departure and re-entry for continued stays.Strategic Application: Vietnamese retail investors seeking foreign partnerships can leverage this exemption for initial in-person meetings, while expatriates can use it to explore living conditions before committing to long-term visas. For those conducting due diligence on investment opportunities, this entry method proves most efficient."Vietnam's visa exemption program offers valuable flexibility for initial market assessment," notes Nguyen Thi Minh, a Ho Chi Minh City-based financial analyst. "However, the inability to extend these stays necessitates careful planning for serious business development."

Short-Term Business Visa Options

For activities extending beyond visa-free allowances, Vietnam offers several business-focused visa categories tailored to different needs and durations.

Tourist Visa (DL)

Duration: 1-3 months (single or multiple entry) Best For: Attending conferences, trade shows, or market research trips Application Process: Available via e-visa for most nationalities ($25 fee) or through Vietnamese embassies/consulates Key Consideration: While technically for tourism, this visa permits attendance at business events without formal work activities

Business Visa (DN1/DN2)

Duration: DN1 for up to 3 months; DN2 for up to 12 months (both available as single or multiple entry) Requirements: Company invitation letter from a Vietnamese business entity, passport validity of 6+ months Cost Range: $80-200 depending on duration and entry type Strategic Value: Allows legitimate business meetings, partner negotiations, and contract discussions without work permit requirements

E-Visa Expansion

Vietnam's e-visa program—recently expanded to 80+ nationalities—offers streamlined online application for stays up to 90 days. This digital-first approach reflects Vietnam's commitment to reducing bureaucratic barriers for business travelers."The e-visa system's expansion to three-month durations represents a significant improvement," explains Tran Van Hai, immigration consultant for expatriate executives. "The online process eliminates embassy visits and significantly reduces processing times, particularly beneficial for last-minute business trips."

Long-Term Options for Investors and Expatriates

Barclay Club members pursuing sustained market participation or establishing local operations require long-term visa solutions that align with their investment strategy and operational needs.

Investor Visa (ĐT1-ĐT4)

Vietnam's tiered investor visa system directly correlates visa benefits with capital commitment—a strategic approach rewarding substantial investors with extended stay privileges:Visa TypeInvestment ThresholdValidityTRC EligibilityĐT1≥100 billion VND (~$4.3M)Up to 5 yearsUp to 10 yearsĐT250-100 billion VNDUp to 5 yearsUp to 5 yearsĐT33-50 billion VND (~$130K-2.15M)Up to 3 yearsUp to 3 yearsĐT4<3 billion VNDUp to 1 yearNoneThis structured approach provides clarity for investors aligning capital deployment with residency needs. The system rewards substantial commitments with reduced administrative burden—a meaningful consideration for high-net-worth investors prioritizing operational efficiency.

Work Visa (LĐ1/LĐ2)

Duration: Up to 2 years, renewable Requirements: Work permit, employment contract with Vietnamese entity, professional qualifications Application Process: Employer-sponsored with supporting documentation demonstrating role necessity Strategic Application: Essential for expatriate executives, financial professionals, or consultants providing ongoing services

Temporary Residence Card (TRC)