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Planning to study or intern in Vietnam in 2026? Discover everything you need to know about the DH Student Visa, including application steps, sponsorship, and length of stay.
What is a Vietnam Student Visa (DH)?
The Vietnam Student Visa, categorized as the DH visa, is specifically designed for foreign nationals entering Vietnam to study, intern, or conduct academic research. As of 2026, Vietnam's educational landscape is rapidly growing, attracting students globally. Unlike a standard tourist eVisa, the DH visa requires a formal sponsor—usually a recognized educational institution or a host company in Vietnam. It allows for longer stays and can be converted into a Temporary Residence Card (TRC) for degree-seeking students.
Key Requirements for a DH Visa
To successfully apply for a Vietnam Student Visa, you must prepare several essential documents. The most critical component is the pre-approval letter from the Vietnam Immigration Department, which your host institution must arrange.
- A valid passport with at least 6 months of validity and 2 blank pages.
- An official acceptance or invitation letter from a Vietnamese university, school, or internship host.
- A pre-approval letter for the DH visa arranged by your sponsor.
- Completed visa application forms and passport-sized photos.
- Proof of accommodation and financial capacity (often requested by the embassy).
You cannot apply for a Student Visa directly on your own. Your Vietnamese educational institution or internship host must submit your documents to the Immigration Department to get your pre-approval letter first.
Step-by-Step Application Process
The process for obtaining a DH visa differs from getting a standard tourist visa. Before arriving in Vietnam, you need to coordinate closely with your university or host organization. While some short-term courses may allow you to enter on an eVisa and later leave to obtain a proper DH visa, it is highly recommended to secure the correct visa from the start.
- Step 1: Enroll in a recognized Vietnamese educational institution or secure an internship.
- Step 2: Send a copy of your passport to your sponsor in Vietnam.
- Step 3: The sponsor applies for a visa pre-approval letter on your behalf at the Immigration Department (takes about 5-7 working days).
- Step 4: Once approved, receive a copy of the letter from your sponsor.
- Step 5: Stamp your DH visa at a Vietnam Embassy/Consulate abroad or upon arrival at a designated international airport, paying the stamping fee.
Visa Duration and Extensions
A standard DH visa is typically issued for up to 12 months. However, if your study program exceeds one year, you can apply for a Temporary Residence Card (TRC) under the student category. A student TRC can be valid for up to 5 years, matching the duration of your academic program. If you need a short-term extension for final exams or graduation, your university can sponsor a visa extension without requiring you to leave the country.
Can You Work on a Student Visa?
A common question among international students is whether they can work part-time. The DH visa is strictly for educational purposes. Engaging in formal, paid employment on a student visa is illegal. If you secure a job, your employer must sponsor a proper working visa (LD1/LD2). Unpaid internships that are part of your academic curriculum are generally permitted, provided your university approves them. If you are exploring business opportunities rather than studying, consider learning about the tourist vs. business visa options.