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Confused about 'approval letters' and 'sponsors'? Discover exactly when an invitation letter is required for a Vietnam visa in 2026.
What is a 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 a person or organization in Vietnam is officially 'sponsoring' your visit.
Tourists: No Letter Required!
If you are traveling to Vietnam for tourism, **you do NOT need an invitation letter or sponsor.**
By applying for a standard tourist eVisa online, you are effectively self-sponsoring. You simply need a passport, a photo, and a credit card to pay the fee. Do not let outdated websites trick you into paying for an 'Approval Letter' for a tourist trip.
Prior to 2020, 'Visa on Arrival' was popular for tourists, which required buying an Approval Letter. This system has been replaced by the much simpler eVisa.
When IS an Invitation Letter Required?
You will need a formal invitation or approval letter in the following scenarios:
- Business Visa (DN1/DN2): To get a long-term business visa, a legally registered company in Vietnam must sponsor you and apply for an approval letter on your behalf
- Family Visit Visa (TT/VR): If you are visiting a spouse or parent who is a Vietnamese citizen or resident, they must sponsor your visa
- Work Visa (LD1/LD2): Requires sponsorship from your employer and a valid work permit
- Student Visa (DH): Requires an approval letter from your university or educational institution in Vietnam
How to Get an Invitation Letter (For Business)
If you need a business visa, you cannot apply for the invitation letter yourself. Your sponsoring company in Vietnam must:
1. Prepare a dossier including their business registration, stamp registration, and a formal request form (NA2). 2. Submit the documents to the Vietnam Immigration Department in Hanoi, Da Nang, or Ho Chi Minh City. 3. Wait 5-7 working days for processing. 4. Once approved, they will email you the official letter, which you use to get your visa stamped at the embassy or airport.