In sponsored cases, a Vietnamese company, organisation or eligible individual may ask the immigration authority to approve the invitation of a foreign national. The resulting approval supports the next visa step; it is not a replacement for the traveller’s passport or final entry formalities.
Check whether sponsorship is necessary
Many travellers can use an e-visa or visa-free entry. Sponsorship is more common for employment, investment, study, family cases and assignments connected to a Vietnamese entity. Choosing the correct route at the beginning saves time and avoids conflicting applications.
Sponsor responsibilities
An organisational sponsor should have valid legal records and the authority to invite the traveller for the stated purpose. An individual sponsor must document identity, residence and an eligible relationship. The sponsor is responsible for providing accurate information and following the current filing procedure.
Information required from the traveller
- Full name exactly as printed in the passport
- Passport number, nationality and date of birth
- Clear passport bio-page copy
- Proposed arrival date and border gate
- Requested visa location and address in Vietnam
- Documents supporting the purpose of entry
From submission to approval
The sponsor files through the current electronic or in-person channel, keeps the case reference and responds to requests. Once issued, the approval should be sent securely to the traveller, who then follows the visa-issuance instructions applicable to the case.
Final checks before departure
Compare every personal detail with the passport. Confirm validity, number of entries, border gate and visa-collection location. Carry the approval and supporting documents in an accessible form and avoid travelling on an expired or replaced passport.
After arrival
The host or accommodation provider must complete temporary-residence registration. Employment, investment or study activities require the relevant authorisations in addition to immigration approval.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is entry approval the same as a visa?
No. It is an immigration response in a sponsored process; the visa or other entry permission must still be completed.
How long does processing take?
It depends on the category, filing method and whether the documents are complete. Apply early and track the official case reference.
Confirm the latest sponsored-entry procedure with the Vietnam Immigration Department before filing.