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If you are planning to invest in Vietnam in 2026, the DT (Investor) visa is the legal pathway to secure your long-term stay. Learn about the four categories (DT1 to DT4) based on capital contribution.
Overview of the Vietnam Investor Visa (DT)
The Vietnam Investor Visa, designated as the DT (Đầu Tư) category, is issued to foreign investors and representatives of foreign organizations investing in Vietnamese enterprises. As of 2026, the visa is structured into four tiers based on the registered capital contribution. This classification aligns with foreign direct investment (FDI) regulations and determines eligibility for long-term residency.
DT Visa Categories and Capital Requirements
Visa validity and associated benefits are strictly determined by the invested capital amount:
| Visa Type | Capital Requirement | Max Visa / TRC Duration | Family Sponsorship |
|---|---|---|---|
| DT1 | ≥ 100 billion VND (~$4M USD) or incentivized sectors | Up to 10 years | Yes (TT Visa) |
| DT2 | 50 - < 100 billion VND (~$2M - $4M USD) | Up to 5 years | Yes (TT Visa) |
| DT3 | 3 - < 50 billion VND (~$120K - $2M USD) | Up to 3 years | Yes (TT Visa) |
| DT4 | < 3 billion VND (< ~$120K USD) | Up to 1 year (No TRC) | No |
Temporary Residence Cards (TRC) Eligibility
A standard visa sticker is typically valid for up to 1 year. Eligible investors may apply for a Temporary Residence Card (TRC) through the local Immigration Department upon entering Vietnam. A TRC functions as a multiple entry visa for its duration.
- DT1 investors are eligible for a TRC valid for up to 10 years.
- DT2 investors are eligible for a 5-year TRC.
- DT3 investors are eligible for a 3-year TRC.
- DT4 investors are not eligible for a TRC; their 1-year visa must be renewed annually.
TRC applications must be submitted from within Vietnam. Applicants often enter using an eVisa or Business Visa (DN) to finalize enterprise registration before converting their status to a DT visa or TRC.
Family Sponsorship (TT Visa)
Foreign nationals holding DT1, DT2, or DT3 visas are permitted to sponsor their spouse and children (under 18 years of age) for a Dependent Visa (TT). The TT visa or associated TRC will be issued with a validity period corresponding to the primary investor's visa. DT4 visa holders are not eligible for family sponsorship.
Application Procedure
The application process requires coordination between the sponsoring Vietnamese enterprise and the Immigration Department:
- Step 1: Obtain the Investment Registration Certificate (IRC) and Enterprise Registration Certificate (ERC) documenting the capital contribution.
- Step 2: The sponsoring company must submit a pre-approval request to the Vietnam Immigration Department.
- Step 3: Upon approval, the applicant will receive the formal visa approval letter.
- Step 4: The DT visa stamp may be collected at a Vietnamese embassy/consulate or at a designated international airport upon arrival.
- Step 5: Eligible applicants may apply for a Temporary Residence Card (TRC) at the local Immigration Office after entering the country.
Applicants must ensure their passport maintains at least 6 months of validity and 2 blank pages. Those requiring immediate entry to initiate enterprise setup may submit an eVisa application via the application page.