Despite significant differences in lifestyle and culture, Vietnam continues to be an attractive destination for tourists due to its beautiful natural landscapes, friendly people, and fascinating traditional stories. So, what does an application dossier for tourist permits to visit Vietnam for foreigners include? Let’s find out in the article below.
I. What is a tourist permit to visit Vietnam for foreigners?
A tourist permit (tourist visa) is one of the most common types of Vietnamese visas. According to current regulations, it is valid for a maximum stay of 3 months, for single or multiple entries. It can be extended or renewed only once after arrival in Vietnam.
II. In which cases is the tourist permit to visit Vietnam required for foreigners?
The tourist permit is required for foreigners who transit through Vietnam via international airports or seaports for tourism purposes, with a stay not exceeding 15 days.
III. A dossier for applying for the tourist permit to visit Vietnam for foreigners
An application or extension dossier for the tourist permit for foreigners to stay in Vietnam includes:
- An application or declaration under NA5 form
- Original passport of the foreign applicant
- Itinerary and travel program
- Travel agency’s tour operator license
- Legal documents of the travel agency (if submitting for the first time)
- Letter of recommendation from the travel agency nominating a representative to implement the procedure.

IV. Questions about the tourist permit to visit Vietnam for foreigners
1. What is the validity of the tourist permit for foreigners in transit?
According to Article 4 of Circular No. 44/2011/TT-BCA issued by the Ministry of Public Security, which provides guidance on granting tourist permits for foreigners in transit:
- The validity of the tourist permit corresponds with the transit time and the planned tour program, but does not exceed 15 days.
2. What responsibilities do transiting foreigners have when touring Vietnam through an international tour operator?
According to regulations, foreigners traveling to Vietnam through international travel agencies must have the following responsibilities:
- Fill out the prescribed application form;
- Present their passport and tickets for continuing travel to a third country;
- Comply with Vietnamese laws, and strictly follow the travel program registered with the Immigration Department and the tour operator’s instructions; and not use the tour to pursue other personal purposes.

3. What responsibilities do international tour agencies have when applying for the tourist permit for transiting foreigners?
Tour agencies are responsible for:
- Implementing procedures to obtain the tourist permit;
- Directly contacting the immigration control agency at the border checkpoint to:
+ Receive the tourist permit;
+ Welcome and organize tours according to the registered itinerary;
If tourists stay overnight, the agency must report their temporary residence as required by law;
Escorting tourists back to the checkpoint and handling exit procedures after the tour;
Ensuring compliance with all regulations on entry, exit, and residence of foreigners in Vietnam.
The above is detailed information regarding tourist permits to visit Vietnam for foreigners. For legal advice or further clarification on procedures and legal regulations, please contact NPLaw for prompt support.