Student visa requirements and application process

Studying in Vietnam offers international students a unique opportunity to experience the country’s rich culture while gaining valuable academic qualifications. To enroll in a Vietnamese educational institution, foreign students must obtain a student visa, which allows legal entry and stay for study purposes.

This guide outlines the requirements and step-by-step application process for obtaining a student visa, including urgent options like same day Vietnam visa and specific details for those seeking a Vietnam visa for US citizens.

Contents

Understanding the Vietnam Student Visa

What is a Student Visa?

A student visa (DT or DH visa) is issued to foreign nationals who wish to pursue education in Vietnam. Unlike tourist visas, this visa allows extended stays for academic purposes, including university programs, language courses, and research studies.

Who Needs a Student Visa?

Any foreign national who intends to enroll in a Vietnamese university, language school, or vocational training program must obtain a student visa before starting their studies.

If you are a US citizen, the process for obtaining a Vietnam visa for US citizens is similar to other nationalities, with some variations in processing times and fees.

Vietnam student visa guide

Requirements for a Vietnam Student Visa

Basic Eligibility and Required Documents

To apply for a student visa, you must prepare the following documents:

A valid passport (at least six months validity beyond your intended stay).
A visa application form (NA1 form for visa entry).
An official letter of acceptance from a Vietnamese educational institution.
Proof of tuition payment or a letter confirming financial sponsorship.
Recent passport-sized photos meeting visa requirements.
A visa approval letter (if applying for Visa on Arrival).
Health insurance proof (if required by the institution).

Applicants who need to travel immediately for urgent enrollment may consider the same day Vietnam visa option. However, this is generally available for tourist or business visas, so converting it to a student visa after arrival may be necessary.

Step-by-Step Process for Applying for a Student Visa

Step 1: Secure Admission to a Vietnamese Institution

Before applying for a student visa, you must first be accepted into a recognized educational institution in Vietnam. The school or university will issue an official acceptance letter, which is a key requirement for your visa application.

Step 2: Choose a Visa Application Method

You can apply for a student visa through one of the following methods:

Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate in Your Home Country
- Submit your visa application and required documents to the nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate.
- Pay the visa processing fee.
- Wait for approval (processing time is usually 5-7 business days).
Visa on Arrival (VOA) – Approval Letter Required
- Your sponsoring educational institution can apply for a visa approval letter from the Vietnam Immigration Department.
- Once approved, you will receive an electronic visa approval letter via email.
- Present this letter at an international airport in Vietnam to obtain your visa stamp upon arrival.

Step 3: Pay the Visa Fee and Submit Your Application

The visa fee varies depending on:

The duration of your visa (short-term or long-term).
Whether you choose single-entry or multiple-entry.
The processing speed (standard vs. expedited processing).

For Vietnam visa for US citizens, fees may differ slightly based on agreements between Vietnam and the United States.

Step 4: Receive and Verify Your Visa

Once your visa is approved, check that all details are correct, including:

Your full name, passport number and visa validity.
The correct visa type (DT or DH student visa).

For students arriving through Visa on Arrival, ensure you carry cash in USD or VND to pay the stamping fee at the airport.

Applying for a student visa in Vietnam

Converting a Tourist Visa to a Student Visa in Vietnam

Can You Convert a Tourist Visa into a Student Visa?

If you entered Vietnam on a tourist visa but later decided to enroll in an educational program, you can apply for a visa conversion without leaving the country. This requires:

A sponsorship letter from your educational institution.
Submission of necessary documents to the Vietnam Immigration Department.
Payment of applicable fees for visa conversion.

This process may take 5-10 business days and those in urgent situations may explore expedited options like a same day Vietnam visa, though availability for student visa conversion may vary.

Visa Extensions and Renewals for Students

How to Extend a Student Visa?

If you need to stay beyond your visa’s expiration date, you must apply for a visa extension through:

The Vietnam Immigration Department or your university’s administrative office.
Submitting a visa extension request along with proof of continued enrollment.
Paying the extension fee (varies based on duration and visa type).

Applying at least one month before your visa expires is highly recommended to avoid overstay penalties.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Inaccurate Documentation

Ensure all information in your visa application matches your passport and school records to prevent rejection.

Last-Minute Applications

Start the visa application process at least 4-6 weeks before your intended travel date to avoid delays. For urgent cases, check if a same day Vietnam visa service is available.

Choosing the Wrong Visa Type

Some students mistakenly apply for a tourist visa instead of a student visa, leading to additional paperwork for conversion later. Ensure you apply for the correct DT or DH visa from the beginning.

Obtaining a student visa to Vietnam

Conclusion

Obtaining a student visa in Vietnam is a structured process that requires securing admission, preparing necessary documents, and applying through the correct channels. For US citizens, the process for a Vietnam visa for US citizens remains largely the same, with specific fees and processing times varying.

For students who need to travel urgently, same day Vietnam visa services might be an option, but they are more commonly available for short-term travel visas. If needed, applicants can explore visa conversion options after arrival.

By following the proper procedures and ensuring timely submission of documents, you can successfully obtain a Vietnam student visa and begin your educational journey in the country.