Vietnam Vietnam e-Visa, Long-Stay Visa & Work Permit 2026 Complete Guide | Requirements, Fees & Application Process
2026 guide to the Vietnam e-Visa, Long-Stay Visa & Work Permit: eligibility, costs and step-by-step process.
Vietnam has become an increasingly popular destination for expatriates and digital nomads due to its vibrant culture, affordable living costs, and growing demand for international talent in IT and manufacturing. This guide covers the Vietnam e-Visa, Long-Stay Visa, and Work Permit options for 2026.
What Is the Vietnam e-Visa, Long-Stay Visa & Work Permit?
The Vietnam e-Visa is an online short-stay visa valid for up to 90 days, suitable for tourism, business, and personal visits. Since 2023, the maximum stay has been extended. For long-term residence and employment, the main route is through a Work Permit issued via a Vietnamese employer, together with a Temporary Residence Card (TRC). The employer must initiate the work permit application.
Eligibility Requirements
- e-Visa
- Valid passport (6+ months remaining validity recommended)
- Nationality from one of 90+ eligible countries
- Work Permit
- Vietnamese employer must submit the application
- Specific eligibility requirements vary by industry and role; contact your employer or the local Department of Labour (DOLISA) for details
- Required documents (e.g. criminal record clearance, medical certificate) should be confirmed with the relevant authority
- Temporary Residence Card (TRC)
- Obtained after work permit approval
- Valid up to 2 years, renewable
Application Fees Breakdown
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| e-Visa application fee | Please check evisa.gov.vn for current fees |
| Temporary Residence Card (1–2 years) | US$145 |
| Temporary Residence Card (2–5 years) | US$155 |
| Work permit (employer-submitted) | Please check the official office for current fees |
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Apply for e-Visa (before departure): Apply at evisa.gov.vn; typically issued in 3–5 business days
- Enter Vietnam & secure employment: Use e-Visa to enter; finalize job offer
- Prepare documents: Gather degree certificate, criminal record clearance, medical cert — all with notarized Vietnamese translation
- Employer submits work permit: Your Vietnamese employer applies to the provincial/municipal Department of Labour (DOLISA)
- Work permit issued: Typically 15–20 business days with complete documentation
- Apply for TRC: After work permit is issued, apply at the Immigration Department
- TRC issued: Up to 2-year residence permit issued; renewable
Rights & Restrictions After Approval
- Employment: May work legally in the role and employer stated in the work permit
- Property: Foreign nationals may hold condominium ownership for up to 50 years (renewable)
- Family: Spouse and dependants may apply for accompanying visas (DV)
- Banking: TRC holders may open local bank accounts
- Renewal: Work permit and TRC can be renewed before expiry under same conditions
Living Costs & Tax Overview
Rent in major cities (Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi) ranges from approximately USD 500–1,500/month (studio to 2-bedroom). Total living costs including food and transport typically range from USD 800–2,000/month.
Personal Income Tax (Law 109/2025/QH15, Article 9 — 5-Tier Progressive PIT)
Vietnam's new 5-tier progressive personal income tax applies from 2026. Rates are based on monthly taxable income after allowable deductions:
| Monthly Taxable Income (VND) | Tax Rate |
|---|---|
| Up to 10 million | 5% |
| 10M–30 million | 10% |
| 30M–60 million | 20% |
| 60M–100 million | 30% |
| Over 100 million | 35% |
Effective Date Note: Law 109/2025/QH15 generally takes effect on July 1, 2026 (Article 29, Para. 1). For employment income (salaries and wages), the new PIT rates apply from the 2026 tax year (from January 1, 2026) (Article 29, Para. 2).
Source: Vietnam Ministry of Finance NIF Portal — Law 109/2025/QH15, Articles 9 and 29 (verified).
Pre-Application Checklist
- Check e-Visa eligibility: Verify your nationality is on the eligible country list at evisa.gov.vn
- Document requirements: Required documents for the work permit vary by employer and role — confirm with DOLISA or your employer
- Employer sponsorship is mandatory: The work permit system requires an employer — secure a job offer first
- Tax timing: The new PIT rates apply to employment income from the 2026 tax year (January 1, 2026)
- Stay current: Check immigration.gov.vn for the latest requirements before submitting
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References
Information in this article is based on the following official sources.
- Vietnam Immigration Department
- Vietnam e-Visa Portal
- Vietnam Ministry of Finance NIF Portal (Personal Income Tax)
- Vietnam Immigration Department – Temporary Residence Procedures
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Related
For a general overview of visas and immigration in Vietnam, see the page below.
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