Administrative Procedures for Settling in Vietnam

Published on May 4, 2026 and written by Cyril Jarnias

Settling in a new country is an adventure that is as exhilarating as it is complex, and Vietnam, with its rich and dynamic culture, attracts many expatriates each year seeking new experiences.

However, before you can savor the beauty of this rapidly developing country, it is essential to navigate the administrative complexities that accompany such a move.

This article will guide you through the essential steps to obtain a visa, secure a work permit, and understand local immigration requirements, allowing you to focus on exploring this captivating corner of the world hassle-free.

Getting Your Visa for Vietnam: Essential Steps

Different Types of Visas for Vietnam

Visa Type	Code(s)	Duration / Validity	Target Audience / Main Purpose
Tourist Visa	DL	30 or 90 days (single/multiple entry)	Travel, tourism, family visits
Business Visa	DN1, DN2	30 or 90 days (single/multiple entry)	Business, negotiations, professional missions
Work Visa	LD1, LD2, LV1, LV2	Up to 2 years depending on contract	Employees, teachers, posted workers
Student Visa	DH	According to study duration	University studies, internships, academic exchanges
Investor Visa	DT1 to DT4	Up to 5 years depending on investment	Business founders, foreign investors
Residence / Family Reunification Visa	TT, VR	Depending on situation	Family members of residents or foreign workers
Diplomatic Visa	NG1 to NG4	Depending on mission	Diplomats, officials, international missions
Press/Journalist Visa	PV1, PV2	Depending on mission	Journalists, reporters

Eligibility Criteria (Main Examples)

• Tourist Visa: Valid passport, proof of exit (return or onward ticket), accommodation booking or invitation.
• Business Visa: Invitation letter from a Vietnamese company or organization.
• Work Visa: Employment contract, work permit obtained by the employer, identification documents.
• Student Visa: Acceptance letter from a Vietnamese institution.
• Investor Visa: Proof of investment, company documents.
• Family Visa: Proof of family relationship (birth certificate, marriage certificate…).

Steps to Obtain a Visa

1. Determine the type of visa suitable for your stay.
2. Fill out the application form (online for the e-visa or via a paper form for the embassy/consulate).
3. Gather the required documents:
   • Passport (valid for at least 6 months after the intended entry date)
   • Recent passport photo
   • Invitation letter (if required)
   • Specific supporting documents depending on the visa (employment contract, admission letter, etc.)
4. Pay the visa fee (varies by type and duration).
5. Submit the application:
   • Online (e-visa)
   • At the Vietnamese embassy/consulate
   • Via an agency for a visa on arrival (approval letter required)
6. Wait to receive the visa or approval letter.

Processing Times and Acceleration Options

• E-visa: 3 to 7 business days.
• Visa at embassy/consulate: 5 to 10 business days.
• Visa on arrival: Approval letter obtained within 2 to 3 business days (express service possible within 1 day via specialized agencies, for an additional fee).
• Acceleration: Express services available through authorized agencies or, in some cases, an “urgent processing” option offered by consulates.

Practical Tips to Avoid Common Mistakes

• Check passport validity (minimum 6 months after the intended entry date).
• Ensure the information on the form matches your passport exactly.
• Only use official websites or recognized agencies to avoid scams.
• Print and keep the approval letter for a visa on arrival.
• Prepare recent passport photos in the required format.
• Respect the authorized duration of stay to avoid penalties upon exit.

Steps to Follow Once On-Site

• Registration with local authorities (within 24 hours of arrival, usually done by the hotel or landlord).
• For a long stay (work, studies, family reunification): finalize the residence permit or resident card at the immigration department.
• Visa renewal or extension: possible on-site for certain visa types, to be requested before expiration from the Immigration Department.
• Change of status (e.g., from tourist visa to work visa): procedure to be carried out with immigration, under strict conditions.

Recommended Official Resources

• Official Vietnamese government website for e-visa: (https://evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn)
• Vietnamese embassies and consulates in your country of residence
• Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs (France) – Travel Advice: Vietnam section
• Vietnamese Immigration Department for regulations and legal updates

Important: Visa rules change regularly. It is highly recommended to check updated information on official websites before starting any procedure.

Tips for Finding the Ideal Accommodation in Vietnam

Key Factors for Choosing Accommodation in Vietnam

• Location: Prioritize neighborhoods close to workplaces, schools, shops, or transport. City centers (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City) are more expensive but offer many services and amenities. Residential areas are quieter and suitable for families.
• Budget: The cost of a furnished 50 m² apartment generally ranges from 250 to 500 euros per month, higher for spacious or centrally located units. Villas and individual houses are more expensive. Shared accommodation or homestays are more economical.
• Types of Available Accommodation:
  • City Apartments: studios, one-bedrooms, family apartments, often furnished.
  • Individual Houses: more privacy and space, ideal for families.
  • Shared Accommodation: co-living, flexible contracts, affordable and friendly solution.
  • Service Apartments: housekeeping and laundry included, very often furnished.
  • Condominiums: pool, gym, common areas.
  • Homestay: cultural immersion, friendliness, typical of rural or mountainous areas.

Practical Tips for Finding Reliable Accommodation

• Use online platforms (Batdongsan, Zillow, Airbnb) to compare listings, filter by price, location, and read user reviews.
• Use local real estate agencies for personalized support, especially if you don’t speak the language. Prioritize French-speaking agents to avoid misunderstandings.
• Check social networks (expat Facebook groups, local forums) for budget-friendly listings and authentic feedback.
• Verify the reliability of listings and be wary of offers that seem too good to be true or requests for cash payment without a prior visit.

Importance of Visiting Properties Before Signing

Always visit apartments or houses to check the actual condition, environment, comfort, and conformity with the online description.

Meeting the landlord or agent on-site allows you to ask all necessary questions and identify potential issues.

Negotiating Rent

Always negotiate the rent amount, especially for long-term rentals or outside highly sought-after neighborhoods.

Ask to include or clarify utilities (electricity, water, internet, cleaning).

Understanding and Securing the Lease Agreement

Key Elements of the Contract	Precautions to Take
Lease Duration	Check flexibility and termination conditions
Rent Amount	Ensure it is clearly defined and includes any utilities
Security Deposit	Specify the amount and terms of refund
Condition Report	Request a written and signed condition report
Inventory of Furniture	Detailed list to be attached to the contract
Payment Terms	Prefer bank transfers or payments via secure platforms
Responsibilities	Clearly define repairs for which the tenant and landlord are responsible
Translation	Request a French or English version if the contract is in Vietnamese

Read each clause carefully, ask for a translation if necessary, and do not hesitate to have the contract reviewed by a professional or a local acquaintance.

Refuse to sign until all essential details are defined and validated.

List of Precautions to Take

• Verify the legality of the accommodation and the contract.
• Ensure the landlord is the legal owner.
• Request receipts for all payments made.
• Keep a copy of the contract and the landlord’s identification documents.
• Maintain a written record of all communications and agreements.

Always visit the property and read the contract carefully before committing. Negotiate the price and clarify all details to avoid unpleasant surprises.

Practical Guide to Renewing Your Residence Permit

Steps for Renewing Your Residence Permit in Vietnam

The process for renewing a residence permit in Vietnam follows several key steps:

1. Prepare the Necessary Documents

• Completed and signed application form
• Valid passport (original + copy, validity over 1 year for the temporary card)
• Entry visa or entry/exit certificate
• 2 passport photos (3×4 cm)
• Documents justifying the reason for stay (e.g., work permit, marriage certificate, birth certificate, investment license, etc.)
• For family members: proof of family relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate)
• Invitation or guarantee letter from the company/organization/sponsor
• In case of loss: declaration of loss and explanatory report
• Proof of residence (lease agreement or accommodation certificate)
• Criminal record check (for certain categories)
• Certified translations and legalizations for all foreign documents

2. Submit the Application

Go to the competent immigration office of the Ministry of Public Security (at the provincial or municipal level) and submit the complete application while paying the applicable fees.

3. Wait for Processing

Usual timeframe: 5 to 7 business days for temporary cards, up to several weeks for the permanent card.

4. Collect the Renewed Permit

Present the receipt or summons to collect the card.

Comparison Table of Residence Permit Types and Eligibility Criteria

Permit Type	Validity Period	Main Eligibility Criteria	Renewal
Temporary Residence Card (TRC)	1 to 5 years	Investors, foreign workers, family members, students	Possible before expiration if conditions are maintained
Permanent Residence Card (PRC)	10 years (renewable)	Continuous residence (3-5 years), family ties, stateless persons, recognized experts, outstanding contributors	Every 10 years, biometric update required

Procedures: Temporary vs. Permanent Residents

Temporary Residents: More frequent renewal, need to justify the validity of the stay reason each year (e.g., valid employment contract, university enrollment, etc.), centralized procedure at the provincial immigration office, simpler application but dependent on professional or family status.

Permanent Residents: Longer procedure, stricter criteria (continuous residence, financial stability, housing, family sponsorship or official recognition), decennial renewal, easier access to certain rights (work, housing, no exit visa required).

Associated Costs

• Administrative fees for each type of permit (vary by duration and category, generally 100 to 300 USD for the TRC)
• Translation, legalization, and certification fees for foreign documents
• Possible fees if using an agent or legal assistance

Expected Timelines

• TRC: 5 to 7 business days
• PRC: several weeks to a few months (in-depth checks)

Practical Tips

• Anticipate the renewal at least 30 days before the permit expires
• Check passport validity (must cover the entire duration of the new permit requested)
• Prepare certified true copies and sworn translations of all foreign documents
• Keep a digital copy of all submitted documents
• In case of a change in situation (employer, address, family status), report it promptly to immigration
• Use a specialized firm for complex cases or permanent residence

Useful Contacts and Resources

• Immigration Department of the Ministry of Public Security
  44-46 Trần Phú, Ba Đình, Hanoi
  254 Nguyễn Trãi, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
• Vietnamese Embassy (for legalized documents or specific questions)
• Official Websites
  – Ministry of Public Security
  – Vietnamese Embassy in France
  – Local immigration portals

For any specific questions, it is advisable to consult official websites directly or make an appointment with the nearest immigration office.

Understanding Regulations for Foreigners in Vietnam

Foreigners wishing to live legally in Vietnam must comply with strict administrative regulations, which vary depending on the duration and purpose of the stay (tourism, work, studies, investment).

Types of Visas Available

Visa Type	Maximum Duration	Eligibility	Renewal	Specific Conditions
Visa Exemption	45 days	24 European and Asian countries	Non-renewable	Valid passport + exit ticket required
E-visa	90 days	All eligible countries	Non-renewable	Online application, multiple entries
Work Visa	12 months max	Employment contract + work permit	Renewable	Employer documents required
Investor Visa	Up to 5 years	Recognized investment	Renewable	Proof of investment
Student Visa	Duration of studies	Admission to a Vietnamese institution	Renewable	Admission letter required

Steps to Obtain a Residence Permit

• Prepare a file with passport, application form, photos, proof of residence, reason for stay (employment contract, university admission, proof of investment).
• Submit the application to the Immigration Department or electronically (for certain visas).
• Wait for the issuance of the temporary residence permit, generally valid for 1 to 3 years, renewable upon presentation of updated documents.

Conditions and Eligibility Criteria

• Passport valid for at least 6 months after entry.
• Proof of exit from the territory (plane ticket, proof of transit).
• Supporting documents related to the reason for stay: employment contract, admission letter, investment documents.
• No criminal record or threat to public order.

Specific Procedures by Profile

Expatriate Workers:

• Prior obtainment of a work permit via the Vietnamese employer.
• The work permit requires an employment contract, diplomas, professional experience, and sometimes authorization from the Ministry of Labor.
• After obtaining it, apply for a work visa and then a temporary residence permit.

Investors:

• Proof of investment (minimum capital, company registration).
• Application for an investor visa, generally valid for 1 to 5 years.
• Possible access to a 5-year multiple-entry visa exemption card for major investors.

Foreign Students:

• Admission to a recognized Vietnamese university or school.
• Acceptance letter required for the student visa application.
• Temporary residence permit granted for the duration of studies, renewable annually.

Regulations on the Employment of Foreigners

• Vietnamese employers must obtain authorization to hire foreigners, proving the lack of qualified local candidates.
• Obligation to declare foreign workers to the authorities and provide them with social coverage.
• Limitation on the number of foreign workers in certain sectors, priority given to local employment.

Practical Tips for Navigating Vietnamese Administration

• Prepare all documents in multiple copies, with certified translations.
• Anticipate processing times (from 2 to 8 weeks depending on the visa type).
• Use the official immigration portal for online procedures.
• Regularly inquire about legislative updates, exemptions, and temporary extensions.
• Contact the Vietnamese embassy or consulate for up-to-date and reliable information.

Recent Changes in Legislation

• Extension of visa exemption to 12 new European countries starting August 15, 2025, for tourist stays of 45 days.
• Implementation of a 5-year multiple-entry visa exemption card reserved for investors, experts, and individuals with special contributions.
• Strengthened controls on justification of stay and exit from the territory (mandatory plane ticket).
• Tougher penalties for overstaying the authorized duration: fines and temporary entry ban.

To remember: Compliance with Vietnamese administrative requirements is essential to avoid any risk of sanctions, deportation, or refusal of renewal. Regularly monitoring legislative developments allows you to anticipate procedures and secure your stay.