Vietnam visa renewal process and duration: What you need to know?

In recent years, Vietnam has become an attractive destination for foreign investors and professionals seeking long-term residency. The Investor Visa Program is an important pathway for qualified individuals to settle in Vietnam. This comprehensive guide will help you understand the initial validity period, renewal procedures and key considerations for Visa holders in Vietnam.

Understanding the Initial Validity Period

The Vietnam Visa initially grants its holder an extended residency period, offering a competitive edge over other international investor visa programs. During this time, visa holders enjoy numerous privileges that facilitate both their stay and business operations in Vietnam.

Key benefits of the standard validity:

1. Extended Residency Term:
   Euronews has noted that Vietnam designed its Visa program to attract foreign investors by granting longer residency rights than standard visas. This extended stay fosters peace of mind and stability, allowing investors to focus on business development and deepen their commitment to the Vietnamese market.

2. Competitive Advantage:
   While many countries offer investor visas, they vary in permitted stay lengths, associated benefits, and application procedures. Vietnam’s Visa—with its lengthy validity, multiple‑entry flexibility, and family inclusion—presents a more attractive proposition.

3. Business and Travel Convenience:
   Unlimited re‑entries and streamlined business formalities enable investors to manage their enterprises without the burden of frequent visa renewals or complex travel procedures.

4. Family Inclusion:
   The Visa extends benefits to immediate family members (spouse and children), facilitating their living arrangements, daily life, and education. (Pursuant to Clause 18, Article 8 of the Law on Entry, Exit, Transit, and Residence of Foreigners.)

Requirements for re-issuance of visa

Legal Basis – Form NA5 under Circular 04/2015/TT‑BCA (as amended by Circular 22/2023/TT‑BCA)
This Circular regulates the application forms and supporting documents for issuing, re‑issuing visas, and extending temporary residence permits for foreigners in Vietnam. Form NA5 is used both for issuing visas and for extending temporary residence.

Submission Location and Processing Time

• Where to Submit: Immigration Authority offices. Depending on your situation, you may apply at the Immigration Department in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, or at the provincial/city police Immigration Office where you currently reside or where your sponsoring organization is headquartered.

Step-by-Step Renewal Process

The renewal process follows a clear sequence and requires thorough preparation to ensure uninterrupted legal residency.

Document Preparation

• Passport

• Visa re‑issuance/extension application (Form NA5) as prescribed in Circular 04/2015/TT‑BCA (amended by Circular 22/2023/TT‑BCA)

• Sponsorship documents (for visas requiring a sponsor), per Article 19 of Law 47/2014/QH13: the inviting or sponsoring organization/individual must provide authenticated written confirmation

Submission

• Submit your complete dossier at the Immigration Department of the Ministry of Public Security or the provincial/city Immigration Office – Provincial/City Police where you are currently residing (Article 19, Law 47/2014/QH13).

Reception, Verification & Supplementation

• Immigration officers will review for completeness and correctness, in accordance with Circular 04/2015/TT‑BCA (amended by Circular 22/2023) concerning dossier requirements.

Payment of Fees

• Fees are governed by Circular 25/2021/TT‑BTC (as amended by Circular 62/2023/TT‑BTC).

Processing Time

• No more than 5 working days from receipt of a complete dossier (Clause 3, Article 19 of Law 47/2014/QH13).

• The Immigration Authority will notify you in writing and affix the new visa to your passport using Form NA5.

Pathway to Permanent Residence

Foreigners holding a Visa—a long‑term investor visa—may apply for permanent residence in Vietnam after a continuous period of residence and investment. Once granted, permanent residence eliminates the need for periodic visa renewals and grants many citizens‑like privileges in matters of residence, investment, and employment.

Read the following article to better understand Permanent Residency or Citizenship in Vietnam: The Right Choice for Your Future

1. Eligibility Conditions
(Pursuant to Articles 39 and 40 of the Law on Entry, Exit, Transit, and Residence of Foreigners)

• Eligible Categories:
  a. Awarded a state order or honorary title for contributions to Vietnam’s development and defense.
  b. Scientists or experts currently holding a Temporary Residence Card in Vietnam.
  c. Sponsored by a parent, spouse, or child who is a Vietnamese citizen with permanent residence.
  d. Stateless persons who have continuously resided in Vietnam since before 2000.

• General Conditions:

  • Legal accommodation and stable income sufficient for living in Vietnam.

• Additional Requirements:

  • For scientists/experts: a recommendation from the relevant Minister or head of a ministerial‑level agency.

  • For sponsored cases: at least 3 years of continuous temporary residence in Vietnam.

2. Dossier & Procedure

• Where to Submit: Immigration Authority (per Article 41).

• Required Documents:

  • Permanent Residence application form

  • Criminal record certificate from the applicant’s home country

  • Diplomatic note from the applicant’s home country mission requesting permanent residence

  • Certified copy of the passport

  • Documents proving eligibility under Article 40

  • Sponsorship letter (if applicable)

Processing Time

• Up to 4 months from receipt of a complete dossier. May be extended by up to 2 months for additional verification.

Notification & Card Collection

• The Immigration Authority notifies both the applicant and the local police in writing.

• Local police inform the applicant within 5 working days.

• The applicant must collect the permanent residence card within 3 months of receiving the approval notification.

Renewal Options and Validity Periods

Various extension options are available to accommodate different investor circumstances:
 

Special Considerations and Tips

Start at least 60 days in advance: Consult the public administration service for investor visas, due to the complex requirements, start preparing and submitting at least 60 days before expiry to avoid any interruption in legal residence and to allow time for any additional documentation requirements.

Professional Support:

• Licensed immigration consultants

• Lawyers specializing in investor visas

• Professional translation services for accurate bilingual documentation

• Financial advisors to ensure investment compliance

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I travel during the renewal process?

Yes, but it's recommended to complete the renewal before extensive international travel. If necessary, special travel permits can be arranged during processing.
 

What happens if my investment performance changes?

Changes in investment performance may affect renewal eligibility. Consult with financial advisors to ensure compliance with minimum requirements.

Can family members have different renewal dates?

Family members' visas typically align with the primary visa holder's duration, but individual cases may vary based on circumstances.

Conclusion

Successfully maintaining and renewing a Vietnam Visa requires careful planning and attention to detail. Understanding the process, requirements, and timeline is crucial for ensuring continuous legal residence status. Stay informed about regulatory updates and consider professional assistance to navigate the renewal process effectively.