Entering Vietnam for business or employment purposes requires the right visa type. Many foreigners are often confused between a Business Visa (DN) and a Work Visa (LĐ). Below is a clear comparison based on Vietnamese law.
🔹 1. Business Visa (DN1, DN2)
📌 Purpose:
- Attending business meetings, signing contracts, exploring investment opportunities, or visiting factories.
- Short-term commercial activities without direct employment in Vietnam.
📌 Validity:
- Up to 12 months (single or multiple entry).
📌 Key Features:
✅ Quick to obtain with company sponsorship
✅ No work permit required if not directly employed
✅ Suitable for investors, managers, or short-term consultants
⚠️ Note: A Business Visa does not allow foreigners to legally work as employees in Vietnam.
🔹 2. Work Visa (LĐ1, LĐ2)
📌 Purpose:
- For foreigners officially employed, assigned, or contracted to work for a Vietnamese enterprise.
📌 Requirements:
- Must first obtain a Vietnam Work Permit (issued by the Department of Labor)
- Visa is then issued based on the work permit
📌 Validity:
- Up to 2 years, extendable along with the work permit.
📌 Key Features:
✅ Legal employment status in Vietnam
✅ Eligible for long-term residence card (TRC)
✅ Required for foreign experts, engineers, or technical workers
⚠️ Note: Working with only a Business Visa is a violation and may result in penalties or deportation.
🔹 3. Which Visa Should You Apply For?
- Choose a Business Visa (DN) if you only need to visit, invest, or attend meetings.
- Choose a Work Visa (LĐ) if you will be employed or contracted by a Vietnamese company.
👉 Unsure about which visa fits your case? Let our legal experts guide you through the process.
✅ FAQ Section (H2 heading)
❓ Can I work in Vietnam with a Business Visa?
No. A Business Visa (DN) only allows foreigners to attend meetings, sign contracts, or explore investment opportunities. To be employed in Vietnam, you must hold a valid Work Permit and Work Visa (LĐ).
❓ How long is a Vietnam Work Visa valid?
A Work Visa (LĐ1, LĐ2) is usually issued for up to 2 years, depending on the validity of the work permit. It can be extended if employment continues.
❓ What documents are required for a Business Visa in Vietnam?
Basic documents include:
- Valid passport
- Invitation letter from a Vietnamese company
- Completed visa application forms
Additional documents may be requested by the Immigration Department.
❓ Do I need a Work Permit for a Work Visa?
Yes. A Work Permit issued by the Department of Labor is mandatory before applying for a Work Visa. Without it, your application will be rejected.
📞 Contact DHH Law Firm for Visa Support
🏢 Main Office: 2nd Floor, 829 Huynh Tan Phat Street, Phu Thuan Ward, HCMC
📍 Branch Office: 6th Floor, No.16, Alley 204, Tran Duy Hung Street, Dai Mo Ward, Hanoi
📞 Hotline: +84 89 9352 777 (VN) | +84 89 9351 777 (ENG)
🌐 Website: www.dhhlawfirm.vn
📧 Email: contact@dhhlawfirm.vn
✨ DHH Law Firm – Clear, Fast, Legal Visa Services for Foreigners in Vietnam
