Photo: Collected

1. Why change the purpose of the visa?

Changing the purpose of a visa is the case where a foreigner has been issued a type of visa and is using that type of visa to enter, exit and stay in Vietnam, but now the purpose of being in Vietnam has changed due to certain conditions. If you meet the requirements of the law, your visa will be converted to an appropriate visa type.

2. Cases where foreigners' visa purposes are changed

Pursuant to Clause 4, Article 7 of Law No. 51/2019/QH14 amending and supplementing a number of articles of the Law on Entry, Exit, Transit, and Residence of Foreigners in Vietnam passed by the National Assembly on November 25 2019 and officially came into effect from July 1, 2020, Vietnam visas issued to foreigners shall be converted in the following cases:

3. Procedures for changing the purpose of Vietnam visa

3.1. Procedures for converting tourist visa (DL), family visit (TT), investment visa (DT1, DT2, DT3, DT4), electronic visa (EV) to short-term working visa (DN1, DN2) and Long-term work visa (LD1, LD2)

Documents required to convert to a work visa include:

• Original passport and visa of the foreigner
• Vietnam visa application form NA5
• Temporary residence registration declaration form
• Work permit or work permit exemption certificate for LD1, LD2 visa types.
• Document explaining the suitability and necessity for visa conversion for DN1 and DN2 visa types
• Letter of introduction to appoint a representative to carry out procedures to change the visa purpose.

2. Procedures for converting tourist visas (DL), family visit (TT), and working visas (LD1, LD2) to investment visas (DT1, DT2, DT3, DT4)

Documents required to convert to an investment visa include:

• Original passport and visa of the foreigner
• Vietnam visa application form NA5
• Investment license/Business registration certificate
• Copy of temporary residence registration
• Documents proving that you are an investor or representative of a foreign organization investing in Vietnam according to the provisions of Enterprise Law and Investment Law. Specifically, documents certifying the completion of investment capital contribution, audited financial statements, appointment decision as representative in Vietnam,...
• Letter of introduction to appoint a representative to carry out procedures to change the visa purpose.

3. Procedures for converting tourist visa (DL), labor (DN1, DN2, LD1, LD2), investment visa (DT1, DT2, DT3, DT4) to family visit visa.

Documents and procedures for converting to a visit visa.

• Original passport and visa of the foreigner
• Vietnam visa application form NA5
• Documents proving relationship as father, mother, wife, husband, child to the inviting or sponsoring individual. The document can be a Marriage Certificate, Family Relationship Certificate, Birth Certificate,...
• Passport and visa of the sponsorer (In case the sponsorer is a foreigner)
• Identification card, household registration book (For cases where the sponsorer is a Vietnamese citizen)

4. Procedures for converting visas due to changing the working and sponsoring company

Foreigners who are working at a company and using business visas DN1, DN2 or working visas LD1, LD2 can apply for visa conversion to another sponsoring company and/or to the same or different visa types if they meet the prescribed conditions.

Conditions for converting visas and changing sponsor companies for foreigners.

• Foreigners' visas and passports must be valid.
• The new sponsoring company must be an enterprise permitted to employ foreign workers.
• The foreigner has completed the procedures to terminate employment with the old company and fully exercised the rights and obligations with the old sponsoring company.

Documents and procedures for applying for a conversion visa for foreigners due to a change of sponsoring company:

• Original passport and visa of the foreigner
• Vietnam visa application form NA5
• Temporary residence registration declaration form
• Decision to resign (or document of equivalent value)
• Work permit or work permit exemption certificate for LD1, LD2 visa types.
• Document explaining the suitability and necessity for converting a visa to a business visa with visa types DN1, DN2
• Letter of introduction to appoint a representative to carry out visa procedures.

Source: Www.vavietnam.com

Photo: Freepik

Generally yes. The cases of foreigner being allowed to change the purpose of entry of their visa while in the Vietnam and without having to exit are stipulated by Law effective from 1st July, 2020

The cases of foreigner being allowed to change the visa purpose while in Vietnam without having to exit and re-enter was stipulated by sub-Article 7.4 of Law No. 51/2019/QH14 dated November 25, 2019 of the National Assembly on amendments to a number of articles of Law on entry, exit, transit and residence of foreigners in Vietnam passed by the National Assembly on November 25, 2019 and officially effective from July 1, 2020. Foreigners granted a Vietnam visa may change the purpose of their visa while in the Vietnam and no need to exit in the following cases:

1. Foreigner presents document proving to be an investor or a representative for foreign organization investing in Vietnam as per the law of Vietnam;

In this case, if the foreigner previously used a tourist visa (DL), relative visitor visa (TT), work visa (LD, LD 1, LD 2), business visa (DN, DN1, DN2) etc. when available documents proving that the investor or the legal representative of the company (stated on the business registration, investment registration certificate, etc.) is allowed to change the visa purpose in accordance with the present position and role.

2. Foreigner presents document proving his/her relationship with person inviting or sponsoring in terms of parents, spouse, children;

In this case, the inviting or sponsoring individual means that it includes an individual holding Vietnamese nationality or a foreigner who has a visa in Vietnam in accordance with regulations, can change the visa purpose and status for a his her relative.

3. Foreigner is invited or sponsoring by agencies or organizations and presents work permit or confirmation of eligibility for work permit exemption according to labor laws;

This case means that that a foreigner has previously been invited and sponsored by the company to work for the company without a work permit or without applying for a work permit exemption with the business visa denoted as DN, DN1 can be changed to a work visa (including temporary residence card) denoted LĐ 1, LĐ2.

4. Foreigners make entry by electronic visa and present work permit or confirmation of eligibility for work permit exemption according to labor laws.

Foreigner of 80 countries and territories who enter Vietnam with an electronic visa (Visa EV) with a period of 30 days upon obtaining a work permit or confirming the exemption of a work permit are allowed to change the visa purpose and status from electronic visa (EV visa) to a work visa (or temporary residence card) with the symbol LD 1, LD 2 as prescribed.

*Note: In case a foreigner is allowed to change visa purposes and status as mentioned above, he/she no need to exit and shall be issued with a new visa with a number and time limit suitable with the new visa purpose and status.

Source: Imgroup.vn

Photo: Collected

Vietnam is not only famous for its cuisine or glorious wars, but it is also an attractive tourist destination with countless scenic spots in every province and city from North to South. In particular, Vietnam in recent years has been chosen by many couples as a place to date or honeymoon. Below are some extremely romantic places in Vietnam that you can plan to visit now!

1. Ha Long Bay

Famed for its breathtaking limestone formations and vibrant green waters, Halong Bay holds the prestigious title of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A romantically enchanting voyage across the bay, discovering hidden caves. Halong Bay offers secluded and tranquil spots on some of its islands. Couples can find moments of solitude on these islands, enjoying each other's company surrounded by nature.

Romance can also come from watching the bay transform during sunset, with the fading light casting a warm and golden hue on the limestone formations. Witnessing the sunset over Halong Bay from the deck of a boat is a romantic experience that many couples cherish.

Source: Collected

And do you want to try some hands-on household activities? In Ha Long Bay, there are floating fishing villages that add a unique charm to the bay. Most couples find this daily life of locals living on the water a romantic and culturally rich experience for them.

2. Hoi An Old Town

The ancient town of Hoi An, with its charming lantern-lit streets and historic architecture, is a perfect romantic setting. You can catch a lot of couples hand in hand at the quaint tailor shops and souvenir stores, or take pictures of each other at this photogenic view. Many couples also choose to get custom-made clothing or unique souvenirs as a lasting memory of their time in Hoi An. Hoi An also offers numerous quiet cafes and art galleries. Couples can relax in a peaceful setting, sipping coffee or tea, surrounded by art and the town's artistic vibe. 

Source: Collected

At night, they can take a stroll along the Thu Bon River, explore the well-preserved buildings, and enjoy a boat ride with lanterns illuminating the water at night. They can light flower papers and make a wish to be together forever.

3. Phu Quoc Island

Phu Quoc is indeed a perfect island - heaven for married couples spending their honeymoons. This getaway offers pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. 

In the daytime, visitors can immerse themselves in breathtaking sunsets, experience the world’s longest cable car, forest trekking with loved ones, diving with unparalleled snorkeling, or spending time at the Water Park. When nights come, Phu Quoc presents its romantic sides with illuminated night markets and delectable food ranging from local delicacies to international dishes. 

Source: Collected

Good news! Tourists from any country and territory can admire the beauty of Phu Quoc Island without visas for up to 30 days, as stated in Vietnam Law. Up to now, Phu Quoc is the only special place in Vietnam that employs this visa exemption policy. 

4. Da Lat

Known as the "City of Eternal Spring," Dalat is a hill station with a cool climate and beautiful French colonial architecture. Everyone who comes to this city will easily fall in love or if they already have a partner, they will even be in deeper affection. 

Source: Collected

Some recommended activities would be exploring flower gardens, taking a cable car ride with panoramic views, and enjoying a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride around the picturesque Xuan Huong Lake. To be more specific, Dalat is renowned for its vibrant flower gardens. Couples can wander hand in hand through beautifully landscaped gardens like the Valley of Love or the Dalat Flower Gardens, surrounded by colorful blooms and picturesque settings. And during sunset, the serene Xuan Huong Lake is a romantic spot for couples. Renting a swan boat or simply walking along the lakeside promenade provides a tranquil and romantic setting.

Photo: Collected

Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is a vibrant and bustling city - it’s no wonder it makes for some great Instagram shots! This city is full of color, and you’ll want to take photos of almost everything.

Whether you’re an instaholic or an irregular poster, Ho Chi Minh deserves a place on your insta feed! Although you’ll find tons of photogenic sights around the city, the following are the most instagrammable spots, in my opinion!

1. Nguyen Hue Café Apartment

Want to let everyone know that you’re right in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City? Take a photo at No. 42 Nguyen Hue Apartment right away! This aesthetic apartment block stands proudly in one of the most festive and expensive streets in Ho Chi Minh City, and inside is more than meets the eye.

Nguyen Hue Apartment features over 30 businesses, including coffee shops, workshops, and local brand boutiques. Many of the shop owners here are artists and designers and Nguyen Hue Apartment has now blossomed into a hotspot for tourists! 

Because this is actually an old-school apartment block that wasn’t designed for commercial purposes, it might feel a bit strange at first, but I guarantee you’ll get some great photos wandering around this 9-floor maze.

2. Ben Thanh Market

If you want to capture the bustling lifestyle of Saigon in just one photo, do it in Ben Thanh Market. Although the market has become more touristy over the years, it’s still worth a visit as you can get some iconic photos here.

Apart from being the single most notable Ho Chi Minh City icon, the market is an Instagram-worthy place thanks to its architecture. Ben Thanh Market inherits the typical French Architecture that you can find sprinkled all over Vietnam.

Outside of Ben Thanh market, there are four main entrances: East, West, South and North. The South entrance, which is ornate with a clock above the door, is one of the most recognized icons of the market. You may have already seen it on Instagram!

3. Tan Dinh Church

More than a religious destination, Tan Dinh Church attracts both Vietnamese and foreign visitors due to its charming pink color. This is why it's also known as ‘The Pink Church’.

Tan Dinh Church is the second oldest cathedral in Saigon and you’ll be amazed at the architecture. This is a Roman-style cathedral with Gothic vibes that was built in 1870 under the French colonization in Vietnam. Since then it has been reconstructed many times. In 1957, during the fourth reconstruction, its current lovely color was painted pink. 

Although it’s a bit disappointing, tourists are not allowed inside the church. The good news is that Tan Dinh Church's best photos are usually taken from outside anyway! The best time to visit is the early morning when the surrounding streets are vacant.

4. Thien Hau Temple

Another iconic Instagram-worthy destination that can’t be missed is Thien Hau Temple. Built-in the 19th century, the temple represents important religious traditions for the Chinese community living in the South of Vietnam.

Thien Hau Temple is a Taoist temple dedicated to the Mazu Goddess, the “Lady of the Sea” in Taoism. The temple displays the famous ancient Chinese architecture with the traditional curvy roof, well-carved pillars, and sculpted holy animals. Having survived for over two centuries, the temple and its interior decorations are still in good condition.

Don’t forget to pray for health and good fortune, as this temple is famous for its spiritual power. Then it’s time to capture every single corner of this photogenic temple. And remember to dress appropriately or you could be refused entry!

5. Bui Vien Street

No trip to Saigon is complete without a visit to Bui Vien Street. This is where you can capture the energy of the nightlife in Ho Chi Minh City! 

Bui Vien has become a famous party destination, starting as a small alley where foreigners can easily find a hostel room. It’s filled with pubs, bars, massage parlors, restaurants, hostels, and street food. All these things are squeezed into a crowded space, making the whole street insanely chaotic and thrilling.

The typical Instagram shot on Bui Vien will show the large crowd of people on the streets with bright lights in the background. It’s an experience you have to capture! 

Source: ForeverVacation