Immigrate to Vietnam from the USA

Moving to Vietnam from the USA implies obtaining a temporary or permanent residence permit, which enables one to legally live here. Below, our immigration lawyers in Vietnam explain how you can relocate here from the United States. We offer tailored guidance and support, no matter the period of time you plan on staying here.

Do I need an entry visa for Vietnam when moving from the USA?

Yes, you need to apply for a visa, no matter if you plan to relocate to Vietnam for a short or long period.

Where can I apply for a visa for Vietnam?

If you start the application procedure in the United States, you can apply at the Vietnamese Embassy in Washington, or one of the Consulates in San Francisco, New York, or Houston.

What types of visas can I apply for when relocating to Vietnam from the US?

Here are the main types of visas available for US citizens relocating to Vietnam:

1. working visa, which is divided into several categories and has a maximum validity of 2 years;
2. family visa, which is granted to relatives of US citizens living here and has a validity of 12 months;
3. investment visa, with a validity of 5 years and requiring specific financial resources;
4. temporary residence cards valid for up to 2 to 10 years depending on the category and that can also be obtained by US citizens.

What are the steps for immigrating from the USA to Vietnam?

1. choose the type of visa you apply for carefully: there are various types of visas associated with immigration reasons;
2. draft the documents for immigration to Vietnam: make sure your passport is valid and other paperwork is not older than 6 months;
3. apply for the visa and the type of residence permit you seek to the Vietnamese Embassy.

How long does it take to obtain a visa for Vietnam as a US citizen?

Entry visas are issued in maximum one week.

How can I relocate to Vietnam from the US as a businessperson?

There are two types of business visas issued by the Vietnamese authorities:

• DN1 visa, which is issued to foreign citizens who work with other Vietnamese companies and organizations in accordance with local laws;
• DN2 visa for foreign citizens who come to Vietnam to provide services, set up businesses, or enter other activities permitted by international treaties Vietnam has signed.

Can I apply for a temporary residence permit while in Vietnam?

Yes, this is also an option if the visa to immigrate to Vietnam from the USA was obtained for reasons like: investment, business, employment, or family reunification.

In order to obtain a temporary residence card in Vietnam as a US citizen, you need to stay here for at least one year based on solid reasons and have a passport with a minimum validity of 13 months.

What documents must I prepare when moving to Vietnam from the United States?

• valid passport;
• clean criminal record;
• proof of accommodation;
• documents proving the reason for relocation;
• healthcare certificate.

NOTE: You can rely on our Vietnamese lawyers for support in drafting and translating documents that need to be filed with the local authorities, as the latter is a key requirement for the processing of your residence permit.

How long must I live in Vietnam to obtain a permanent residence permit as an American? How about obtaining citizenship?

3 years is the minimum period to become eligible for permanent residency in Vietnam.

Permanent residency is available for US citizens who:

• are married to Vietnamese nationals;
• make a significant contribution to the Vietnamese economy;
• are scientists or experts temporarily residing in Vietnam.

Applications for permanent residence are processed by the Immigration Department of the Ministry of Public Security.

For citizenship, you must live in Vietnam for at least 5 years based on a permanent residence permit.

If you need more information or support with immigration to Vietnam, you can work with our local law firm to find the best approach for you. So, do not hesitate to contact us. Our lawyers can also help you open a company in Vietnam.