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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.
What is the Vietnam Investor Visa (DT)?
The Vietnam Investor Visa, categorized as DT (Đầu Tư), is granted to foreign investors and representatives of foreign organizations investing in Vietnamese enterprises. As of 2026, the visa is divided into four distinct tiers based on the amount of capital contributed. This system encourages large-scale foreign direct investment (FDI) while providing proportional long-term residency benefits.
The 4 Categories of Investor Visas (DT1 to DT4)
The validity and benefits of your visa depend directly on your investment capital:
| 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) for Investors
While a standard visa sticker on your passport is valid for up to 1 year (or 5 years for certain DT visas), most serious investors apply for a Temporary Residence Card (TRC) upon arrival. A TRC acts as a long-term multi-entry visa.
- DT1 investors can obtain a TRC valid for up to 10 years. - DT2 investors are eligible for a 5-year TRC. - DT3 investors can secure a 3-year TRC. - DT4 investors are NOT eligible for a TRC; they must renew their 1-year visa annually.
To apply for a TRC, you must already be in Vietnam. Many investors initially enter Vietnam using an eVisa or a standard Business Visa (DN), finalize their company setup, and then convert their status to a DT visa or TRC from within the country.
Sponsoring Family Members (TT Visa)
Holders of DT1, DT2, and DT3 visas can sponsor their spouses and children (under 18) for a Dependent Visa (TT). The TT visa or TRC will have a validity period matching the primary investor's duration. Note that DT4 visa holders cannot sponsor family members under this category.
How to Apply for a Vietnam Investor Visa
The application process requires coordination between your Vietnamese company and the Immigration Department:
- Step 1: Obtain your Investment Registration Certificate (IRC) and Enterprise Registration Certificate (ERC) proving your capital contribution.
- Step 2: Have your company in Vietnam submit a pre-approval request to the Vietnam Immigration Department.
- Step 3: Once approved, receive the visa approval letter.
- Step 4: Pick up the DT visa stamp at the Vietnam embassy/consulate in your home country, or at the international airport upon arrival.
- Step 5: Apply for the long-term Temporary Residence Card (TRC) at the local Immigration Office after entering Vietnam.
Make sure your passport has at least 6 months of validity and 2 blank pages. If you need to enter Vietnam quickly to start the process, consider applying for an eVisa first at our application page.