Table of Contents
Guidance on when a sponsor or invitation letter is required for a Vietnam visa, and when travelers are exempt under the eVisa system.
Overview of the Visa Invitation Letter
An invitation letter, officially known as a Visa Approval Letter, is a document issued by the Vietnam Immigration Department. It confirms that an individual or organization in Vietnam is officially sponsoring a visitor's entry into the country.
Tourist Entry Exemptions
For individuals traveling to Vietnam for tourism purposes, an invitation letter or sponsor is not required.
Travelers can apply for an eVisa directly through the official National Web Portal on Immigration. The eVisa is valid for up to 90 days and allows entry through 83 designated ports. The standard processing fee is $25 USD for a single-entry visa and $50 USD for a multiple-entry visa.
Prior to 2020, the 'Visa on Arrival' system required the advance purchase of an Approval Letter. This process has been superseded by the electronic visa (eVisa) system for standard tourist entries.
Scenarios Requiring an Invitation Letter
A formal invitation or approval letter is mandatory for the following visa categories:
- Business Visa (DN1/DN2): Requires sponsorship by a legally registered company in Vietnam, which must apply for an approval letter on the applicant's behalf.
- Family Visit Visa (TT/VR): Requires sponsorship by a spouse or parent who is a Vietnamese citizen or resident.
- Work Visa (LD1/LD2): Requires sponsorship from a Vietnam-based employer and an approved work permit.
- Student Visa (DH): Requires an approval letter from an authorized educational institution in Vietnam.
Business Visa Application Process
Individuals seeking a business visa must have their sponsoring organization in Vietnam initiate the application:
- The sponsor prepares a dossier, including business registration, stamp registration, and the formal request form (NA2).
- The documents are submitted to the Vietnam Immigration Department.
- Processing typically requires 5 to 7 working days.
- Upon approval, the sponsor provides the official letter, which the applicant presents to obtain the visa stamp at an embassy, consulate, or designated port of entry.