What Is a Vietnam Visa Approval Letter and How Many Types Are There?
This page explains what an approval letter is. For the full filing procedure see the step-by-step guide; to have us do it, see the service page.
A visa approval letter — công văn nhập cảnh in Vietnamese — is a document issued by the Vietnam Immigration Department confirming that a named foreigner has been cleared to enter the country. It is not the visa itself: the visa is stamped afterwards, either at a border gate or at a Vietnamese mission abroad.
Two types by where the visa is collected
| Airport / border pick-up | Embassy pick-up | |
|---|---|---|
| Visa issued at | International gate in Vietnam (Tan Son Nhat, Noi Bai, Da Nang, land gates) | The Vietnamese embassy or consulate named in the letter |
| Stamping fee paid | In cash on arrival | At the mission, in local currency |
| Photos needed | Two 4×6 photos on arrival | As required by the mission |
| Best for | Travellers already booked to fly in | Nationalities that must obtain the visa before boarding |
Types by entry and duration
- Single entry — one entry only; a second trip needs a new document.
- Multiple entry — unlimited entries within the validity, better for regional managers commuting in and out.
- Validity follows the visa symbol: 1–3 months for DL, up to 12 months for DN and TT, up to 2 years for LD, up to 5 years for DT1 and DT2.
Who can sponsor the letter
A Vietnamese company registered with the Immigration Department (form NA16 on file), or an individual sponsoring a relative. The sponsor signs form NA2 or NA3 and is responsible for the person invited.
Approval letter or e-visa?
An e-visa needs no sponsor but caps at 90 days and never allows work. An approval letter needs a sponsor but supports every symbol, longer stays and the route to a residence card.
Important: you cannot enter Vietnam before the date stated in the letter. If plans change, a new letter is required.
