Vietnam Investor Visa - Overview and Eligibility Criteria

If you’ve ever visited Vietnam and fallen in love with the country, you’re not alone. With its rich culture, fascinating history, and friendly people, there’s much to admire. Vietnam offers both a relaxed lifestyle and exciting experiences, along with some of the best coffee and coffee shops in Asia.

However, one downside is the limited visa options available for those who wish to make Vietnam their home. While there is a solid tourist visa and a work visa for those interested in teaching English (TEFL), options for retirees or digital nomads looking for longer stays are quite limited.

The good news is that there is an alternative: the Vietnam Investor Visa. Read on to see if this visa might be a suitable option for you.

Vietnam Investors Visa Overview

The investment visa has four tiers, outlined below:

DT1 – 100 billion VND minimum investment (USD 3.9 million)

DT2 – 50 billion VND minimum investment (USD 2.0 million)

DT3 – 3 billion VND minimum investment (USD 118,000)

DT4 – Less than 3 billion VND

The DT1 and DT2 visas are generally not accessible to most individuals due to the high investment requirement. They require a government prescribed investment. Holders of the DT1 and DT2 visas are granted a residency permit for five years.

In contrast, the DT3 and DT4 visas are much more commonly used, especially by expatriates looking to move to Vietnam and start a business. These visas can be used to invest in a standard business, such as a coffee shop or restaurant.

The DT3 visa provides a three-year residency permit, while the DT4 visa offers a one-year permit. Although there is no clearly defined minimum investment for the DT4 visa, it is generally expected that expatriates will invest between USD 50,000 and USD 70,000.

Holders of the DT3 visa can apply for a Vietnam Resident Card, allowing them to reside in the country for up to ten years. However, DT4 visa holders are not eligible for the Resident Card but can apply for a work permit, which is valid for two years, to work in their business.

Additionally, DT3 visa holders can bring their spouse and children with them, while the DT4 visa only allows the main applicant to reside in Vietnam. If you’re single or your partner is Vietnamese, the restrictions of the DT4 visa may not be an issue.

How to Apply for the Vietnam Investor Visa

All visa applicants must have a sponsor in Vietnam, which is typically the visa agent you use.

Additionally, you will need to provide relevant documentation that demonstrates your investment in a business in Vietnam. This may include items such as:

Business license/permits

Investment license

Shareholder certificates

Record of capital contribution

If you are looking for a visa sponsor or an agent to assist you with your application, feel free to get in touch.

Are there other benefits to the Vietnam Investor visa?

Vietnam offers numerous lifestyle benefits thanks to its stunning landscape and culture. Additionally, it is a rapidly developing nation that is quickly becoming a manufacturing powerhouse in the region. Many companies are relocating their production to Vietnam to take advantage of lower wages and overall costs.

This is good news for investors, as the continued development of the country is likely to have a positive impact on all Vietnamese businesses.

Vietnam is also emerging as a popular tourist destination. Many retirees, digital nomads, and families are visiting and spending money in the country, creating opportunities for those looking to establish a business that taps into tourist spending.

For foreigners interested in obtaining Vietnamese citizenship, it is possible to apply after residing in the country for five years. To become a citizen, applicants must demonstrate proficiency in the Vietnamese language and renounce any other citizenships they may hold.

Next Steps

We love Vietnam! It’s a wonderful country with a bright future ahead. Whether you’re interested in beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, or vibrant city life, there’s something for everyone here.

If you would like to discuss moving to Vietnam, obtaining visas, setting up a business, taxation, or any other inquiries, please feel free to reach out to us.