An entry approval letter records the immigration authority’s response to a request by a Vietnamese sponsor to invite a foreign national. It is used in specific sponsored-entry cases and should not be confused with the visa or passport needed for travel.
When sponsorship may be appropriate
Depending on nationality and purpose, a traveller may qualify for an e-visa, visa exemption or a sponsored route. Sponsorship is commonly considered for employment, investment, study, family visits and assignments connected to a Vietnamese organisation. Check the simplest lawful route before assembling documents.
Who can act as sponsor
A company or organisation must have suitable legal status and may need to register its seal and authorised signature with immigration. An individual sponsor must fall within an eligible relationship and be able to document that relationship.
Documents normally prepared
- Clear copy of the foreign national’s passport bio page
- Proposed entry dates, border gate, visa-collection location and address in Vietnam
- Invitation or sponsorship form in the current format
- Corporate records or the individual sponsor’s identity documents
- Evidence of the purpose, such as work, investment, study or family documents
Application workflow
First confirm the entry category, then check every passport detail before filing. Submit through the current electronic system or competent immigration office, keep the reference number and respond quickly to requests for additional information.
After an approval is issued
Verify the traveller’s name, passport number, validity, entries and collection location. The traveller should carry the original passport, the approval record and any photographs or supporting documents required for visa issuance. Temporary-residence registration is still required after arrival.
Common causes of delay
- A spelling or passport-number mismatch
- Requested dates that do not fit the stated purpose
- Missing proof of sponsorship or relationship
- An expiring or unreadable passport copy
- Selecting the wrong entry point or visa-collection location
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an entry approval letter a visa?
No. It supports the sponsored process; the traveller must still complete the applicable visa and entry formalities.
Can the arrival date be changed?
Travel must remain within the approved period. Significant changes should be checked with immigration before departure.
Immigration procedures change. Confirm the latest forms and filing channel with the Vietnam Immigration Department.
