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VIETNAM-IMMI.ORG
Last Updated: Tuesday June 09, 2026
Many foreign nationals choose Vietnam as a destination for tourism, business visits, family reunions, or professional opportunities. However, one common misunderstanding is the belief that any Vietnam eVisa allows the holder to work and receive income in the country.
Understanding the purpose of your visa is essential to ensuring compliance with Vietnamese immigration regulations.
Vietnam eVisa Categories and Their Intended Purposes
Vietnam offers electronic visas (eVisas) for various purposes of entry. When applying, travelers must accurately declare the purpose of their visit and use the visa accordingly.
Common eVisa purposes include:
Tourist eVisa
Intended for:
- Tourism and sightseeing
- Holidays and leisure travel
- Personal travel throughout Vietnam
Business eVisa
Intended for:
- Business meetings
- Conferences and exhibitions
- Commercial discussions and market research
- Short-term business visits
Family Visit eVisa
Intended for:
- Visiting relatives or family members residing in Vietnam
- Personal and family-related travel
According to the Vietnam Immigration Department, foreign nationals are required to use their visas in accordance with the purpose stated in their application and approved by the authorities.
Can You Work in Vietnam with a Tourist or Business eVisa?
Generally, No
A Tourist eVisa, Business eVisa, or Family Visit eVisa is not intended for employment in Vietnam.
If you enter Vietnam under one of these visa categories and perform work while receiving a salary, wages, or employment-related compensation from an organization operating in Vietnam, you may be using the visa for a purpose different from the one approved.
Effective from current immigration and labor regulations, including provisions referenced under Decree No. 282/2025/ND-CP, foreign workers and employers are expected to comply with the appropriate immigration and employment requirements.
Also, the note from the Immgration:
- According to the regulations of Vietnamese law, foreigners entering for investment must have documents proving their investment in Viet Nam as prescribed by the Investment Law; foreigners practicing as lawyers in VietNam must have a practice license as prescribed by the Law on Lawyers; foreigners entering for employment must have a work permit or a certificate confirming that they are not subject to work permit issuance as prescribed by the Labor Code; foreigners entering for study must have an acceptance document from the school or educational institution in Viet Nam; those entering for religious activities, journalism, healthcare, education must have permission from the competent authority.
- A person legally residing in Viet Nam is allowed to combine travel, visit relatives, and seek medical treatment without the need for permission.
- Foreigners operating in Viet Nam must comply with the purpose of entry.
Photo: Collected
What Should You Do If You Intend to Work in Vietnam?
If your purpose is employment, the recommended approach is to follow the proper legal procedures before beginning work.
Step 1: Contact Your Employer
Your sponsoring company should advise you on the appropriate immigration process and employment requirements.
Step 2: Apply for a Work Permit (When Required)
Depending on your position and eligibility, your employer may need to obtain a work permit or other relevant authorization on your behalf.
Step 3: Apply for the Appropriate Visa Category
You should enter Vietnam under the visa category that matches your actual purpose of stay.
Submitting the correct visa application from the beginning helps avoid unnecessary complications for both employees and employers.
Why Does the Correct Visa Purpose Matter?
Vietnamese immigration authorities assess applications based on the declared purpose of entry.
Using a visa for a purpose other than the one approved may potentially affect:
- Immigration compliance
- Future visa applications
- Work permit procedures
- Employer obligations under Vietnamese law
Official announcements from Vietnamese authorities consistently emphasize the importance of matching the visa category with the actual activities conducted in Vietnam.
Our Recommendation
If you plan to:
- Work for a company in Vietnam
- Receive salary or employment compensation
- Take on long-term professional responsibilities
you should discuss the appropriate work authorization process with your employer before traveling.
Choosing the correct visa category from the beginning is the safest way to ensure compliance and avoid unnecessary risks for both yourself and your company.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I travel around Vietnam with a Tourist eVisa?
Yes. Tourist eVisas are designed for leisure travel, tourism, and sightseeing activities.
Can I attend business meetings with a Business eVisa?
Yes. Business eVisas are generally intended for meetings, conferences, negotiations, and other business-related visits.
Can I receive a salary in Vietnam while holding a Tourist or Business eVisa?
If your activities constitute employment in Vietnam, you should ensure that you have obtained the appropriate authorization and visa category required under Vietnamese regulations.
Does Vietnam have visa categories specifically related to employment?
Yes. Depending on the circumstances, foreign workers may need work permits and employment-related visa categories that correspond to their intended activities in Vietnam.
Where can I get advice about my situation?
If you are unsure which visa category is suitable for your trip, our team can help review your circumstances and provide guidance before you submit your application.
Whether you need a fast visa, airport fast track, private car, or eSIM, Vietnam-Immi.org is here 24/7 to support your trip.
- Whatsapp: +84379522522
- Hotline: +84.379.522.522
- Email: [email protected]
