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Business Visa (DN Category)

Visa for business activities, meetings, and commercial engagement without formal employment.

Processing Time
5-7 working days for approval letter
Validity
1, 3, 6, or 12 months (single/multiple entry)
Renewable
Yes

Overview

DN1 is for foreigners working with Vietnamese businesses; DN2 for services and commercial activities under international treaties. Popular choice for consultants and digital nomads conducting business meetings. Does NOT allow formal employment.

Who It's For

Consultants, freelancers with foreign clients, digital nomads conducting meetings, business visitors, anyone needing longer stays than tourist visa without formal employment.

Requirements

Required Documents

  • Business registration documents of sponsor

Application Process

  1. 1

    Find Sponsor

    Vietnamese company applies for approval letter at Immigration Department

  2. 2

    Receive Approval

    Wait 5-7 working days for approval letter

  3. 3

    Apply for Visa

    Apply at Embassy/Consulate OR pick up at airport with approval letter

Path Forward

Path to Permanent Residency

Does NOT allow formal employment or TRC eligibility. Cannot work as employee on DN visa (illegal).

Path to Citizenship

No direct pathway to citizenship.

Tips

  • Acceptable for consultants/freelancers with foreign clients
  • Good for digital nomads conducting meetings
  • 12-month multiple entry provides maximum flexibility
  • Gray area for remote work - enforcement minimal for foreign-client work

Common Mistakes

  • Working as formal employee on DN visa (illegal)
  • Not having proper sponsor documentation

DIY vs. Hiring a Lawyer

Agency recommended for approval letter; embassy application straightforward

Need Help with Your Application?

Compare other visa options or find immigration lawyers who can help.