Vietnam has no separate “entrepreneur visa” or startup visa. Foreign founders who open or invest in a company in Vietnam use the investor visa (ĐT) and, for larger investments, an investor temporary residence card. Which category you get depends on your capital contribution. Info Travel advises on the right route and handles the approval letter, visa and residence card.
How a foreign entrepreneur gets a visa for Vietnam
- Step 1: set up or invest in a Vietnamese company (investment registration certificate, enterprise registration certificate, capital contribution).
- Step 2: the company registers its seal and signature with the Immigration Department (form NA16) and applies for an approval letter for your ĐT visa.
- Step 3: you collect the ĐT visa at an embassy or on arrival at the airport, or switch status in Vietnam where allowed.
- Step 4: apply for an investor residence card if your category allows it.
Investor categories by capital (2026)
| Category | Capital contribution | Maximum residence card |
|---|---|---|
| ĐT1 | VND 100 billion or more, or a sector or area with special investment incentives | Up to 10 years |
| ĐT2 | VND 50 billion to under 100 billion, or an encouraged sector | Up to 5 years |
| ĐT3 | VND 3 billion to under 50 billion | Up to 3 years |
| ĐT4 | Under VND 3 billion | No residence card; ĐT4 visa up to 12 months |
Details: Vietnam investor visa ĐT1–ĐT4 · investor residence card.
Do founders need a work permit?
A capital-contributing owner or member of a company with capital of VND 3 billion or more is generally exempt from a work permit but still needs the exemption confirmed in practice for the residence card file. Founders below that threshold, or who are hired as managers or experts, usually need a work permit before the residence card. Our checks for a residence card without a work permit: an investment certificate or bank confirmation of capital of VND 3 billion or more, an operating company with an office and signboard, and corporate income tax already incurred.
FAQ
Can I start a business in Vietnam on a tourist visa or e-visa?
You can research and meet partners on an e-visa, but to manage your company and stay long term you need an ĐT visa or residence card. Contact us to plan the switch.
How long does the investor visa take?
Usually about one week for the approval letter once the company file is complete, then about one to two more weeks for the residence card. Exact timing depends on the file and the immigration office.
Info Travel – Visa solutions for every situation
WhatsApp/Zalo: +84327828822 – Hotline: +84903782118
Email: congthongtinvisa@gmail.com
