Vietnam Digital Nomads E-Visa: Requirements & How To Apply

Vietnam Digital Nomads E-Visa: Requirements & How To Apply

Vietnam's mix of vibrant cities, serene rice paddies, and postcard-perfect beaches is truly a digital nomad's dream come true. But what kind of visa will you need to legally work remotely and explore the country?

In this article, we'll unveil the different visa options available in Vietnam for digital nomads. From the convenient online application process of the e-Visa to the details of other visa types, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to experience the magic of Vietnam for an extended period.

So, grab your Vietnamese iced coffee, settle in, and get ready to unlock the exciting possibilities of becoming a digital nomad in Vietnam!

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Our content is based on research from official sources and intended for informational purposes only. We do not provide visa application services. For dedicated visa assistance, please consult a specialized provider.

Does Vietnam Have a Digital Nomad Visa?

Vietnam has no special visa for digital nomads. On the other hand, some types of visas can be requested depending on your country of residence and your intentions once you are in Vietnam.

The most convenient visa for digital nomads is currently the e-Visa for tourists because it is effective for most countries and can be easily issued online.

Hand bridge in Vietnam

Vietnam Tourist e-Visa For Digital Nomads: Overview

Outside Vietnam, foreigners who want to enter Vietnam can apply for an e-visa themselves or through inviting/guaranteeing agencies and organizations.

E-visa fees can be paid via an electronic payment gateway as requested by the Immigration Department. The fee cannot be refunded if the application is refused.

E-visa holders in Vietnam could be considered for a new visa if they are invited/guaranteed by an authority/organization/individual in Vietnam, following the Law on foreigners' entry into, exit from, transit through, and residence in Vietnam.

Seaview in Vietnam

Who Can Apply for Vietnam Tourist e-Visa

Vietnam is currently launching a pilot E-Visa system for citizens from 80 countries.

The list of countries can be found on the official site at the following link:

Here is also a list of the Ports that allow foreigners to enter and exit Vietnam by E-visa:

Some of the conditions to be granted an e-visa are:

  • Being foreigners and residents outside Vietnam
  • Holding a valid passport
  • Not falling into the cases of suspension from entry
Railroad in Vietnam

How to Apply for Vietnam Tourist E-Visas as a Digital Nomad

The steps to apply for a Vietnam Tourist e-Visa as a digital nomad are:

Step 1: Fulfill the required information:

  1. Upload foreigners' passport data page image and photograph (straight-looking without glasses)
  2. The registration code will be sent to the applicant after this step.

Step 2: Pay the E-visa fee (25 USD):

Your application will be processed in 3 working days.

Step 3: Enter the registration code:

Registration email and date of birth to check results in the e-visa search menu. If approved for an E-visa, print the E-visa to enter/exit Vietnam.

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Your application will not be accepted if missing or incorrect/unidentified information exists.

Requirements for Applying To Vietnam Tourist e-Visa as a Digital Nomad

The documents you must submit when you apply for a Vietnam Tourist Visa as a digital nomad include:

  • A valid passport
  • Two pictures:
    - Size: 4 cm x 6 cm
    - Taken recently
    - White and plain background
    - You must be staring ahead with a neutral facial expression
    - You must not be wearing any glasses

You can check on the status of your application through this website.

The city that never sleeps, took this shot at Bui Vien street in Ho Chi Minh, one of the most crazy party streets that i have seen!

How Much Does the Vietnam Tourist E-Visa Cost as a Digital Nomad?

For an e-visa program, the cost is $25 and grants admission to Vietnam for 30 days.

The system accepts all major credit cards. Payments for E-Visa applications are non-refundable.

Timeline for Applying for Vietnam Tourist E-Visa as a Digital Nomad

The visa will be received via email in 2 or 3 working days for normal processing.

Rishaws in Vietnam

What If I’m Not Eligible for Vietnam Tourist E-Visa As a Digital Nomad?

In total, there are 6 popular types of visas in Vietnam.

The 6 visa options are the following ones:

  1. Tourist visa (DL)
  2. Business visa (DN1, DN2)
  3. Student/internship visa (DH)
  4. Investor Visa (DT1, DT2, DT3, DT4)
  5. Working visa (LD1 – LD2)
  6. Diplomatic visa (NG)

In most cases, you should be eligible for the tourist e-Visa, but if you don't, you might be able to take advantage of any of these 6 types of visas instead.

So make sure to check the requirements for each of those on the Vietnam official website.


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Benefits of Working as a Digital Nomad in Vietnam

Coastline in Vietnam

Becoming a digital nomad in Vietnam has several advantages, among which one of the most enticing is the low cost of living. The average monthly living costs can range in fact from USD 700 to USD 1,400.

Vietnam is also unique through its landscapes, which makes it a great destination to live in, even temporarily.

Additionally, Vietnam has become a great digital nomad hub in recent years, with many co-working spaces for remote workers. Wi-Fi access is relatively easy to find in most coffee shops, hotels, and office buildings that offer free Wi-Fi connections.

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Hanoi and Ho Chi Min City are two of Vietnam's most appreciated digital nomad destinations you might want to check out.

You may also be interested in:

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Paying Taxes as a Digital Nomad in Vietnam

Even if someone in Vietnam is not paying them, foreigners could be subject to taxable income if they stay in this country for more than 183 days.

Non-residents require a work visa if they want to work legally in Vietnam.

Foreigners cannot work in Vietnam on a tourist visa for companies in Vietnam.

Independent contractors who work online can continue doing so without a work visa. For example, a person from Ireland visiting Vietnam for a couple of months working remotely for a company in Ireland can work without worrying about paying taxes in Vietnam or needing a work visa.

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Be aware, though, that your residency status will determine your tax regime.

A non-resident is a person who lives in Vietnam for less than 183 days a year and has no personal interests in this country.

Non-resident independent contractors must pay taxes on their Vietnamese-sourced income only. They are charged a flat tax rate of 20%.

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Are You Ready to Explore Vietnam As A Digital Nomad?

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We'll see you there, Freaking Nomads!

Irene Lidia Wang
Written by Irene Lidia Wang

UX Designer and digital nomad. After struggling with feelings of not belonging due to her Italian-Chinese heritage, she co-founded Freaking Nomads to offer a space for people seeking their own paths.

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