Want to learn more about Vietnam immigration? You might be looking to move here yourself or just searching for some background information on migration to and from this Southeast Asian nation.
To put things in context; Vietnam has a complex history of migration because of the diaspora from 1975 after the war. Many people left the country because of the conflict (either forcibly or of their own accord) to begin a new life in America, Australia and other nations.
The past may be dark, but today it is ranked amongst the happiest places to live in the world. And the future looks bright too! With the economy thriving, many people are choosing to make this country their home. Statistics show that more than 83,000 foreigners live and work here. The low unemployment rate, relatively cheap cost of living and of course, the good weather, make this country a new haven for expats.
The recent influx of people wanting to travel to and to live here on a permanent basis has made greater clarity around visas essential. As a result, Vietnam has recently updated its immigration and visa policies.
In 2015 a new law was introduced to establish clearer entry and exit policies for foreign nationals. Immigration Departments have been set up in different parts of the country to process applications and offer information and advice. You can learn more about where you can find these offices later in the post.
Looking to see what the country has to offer before you decide to emigrate? You can get your Vietnam tourist visa with Byevisa.
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A Brief History of Vietnamese Immigration to the US
How did the Vietnam war affect immigration to the United States in the 1970s is a common question on exam papers. The legacy of the conflict in both countries as well as the wider Indochina region is huge. This is something you should be aware of as a traveller and particularly if you are looking to live here long term and integrate into the local culture.
The fall of Saigon (today known as Ho Chi Minh City) led to the evacuation of an estimated 125,000 refugees to the United States. Today Ho Chi Minh City is a bustling city with excellent food and plenty of personality. With the affordable housing and vibrant cafe culture you can see why many remote workers are choosing to work here.
Modern-day Vietnam is a safe place to travel to and to live and more and more Americans are retiring here. Visa rules have been relaxed and Americans are drawn to the cheap healthcare, the cosmopolitan cities and the more laidback way of life. There are approximately 100,000 expats living here who enjoy the many advantages of living in this beautiful country. Locals are friendly, the cuisine is healthy and delicious and the scenery is stunning, what’s not to love!
What Is the Purpose of the Vietnam Immigration Department?
The purpose of this department is to ensure that immigration laws are adhered to by all those residing in the country (whether as a tourist or a permanent resident).
This office will be your first port of call if you want to do any of the following:
- Apply for a visa.
- Apply for a temporary residence card.
- Register as a citizen.
- Obtain or renew a Vietnamese passport.
You will also need to liaise with the Vietnamese Immigration department if you are requesting a visa approval later. A visa agent based in the country can also request this on your behalf for a fee.
Already in the country with a tourist visa and want to look into the logistics of moving to the country long term? You will need to pay the Vietnamese Immigration office a visit.
The officials there will be happy to provide you with all the information that you need about multiple entry visas, one-year visas and more. We can also provide you with this information online here at Byevisa.
What Is the Vietnam Immigration Policy?
Planning to move here? You’ve chosen well! Vietnam is one of the most welcoming countries in Southeast Asia. If you are looking to work or retire here it is a great option. The country is thriving at the moment and with the fast economic growth and the demand for foreign workers in many fields, the future looks bright for expats considering making it their home.
In order to apply for a visa to stay here long term, you must first acquire a tourist visa. You can only apply for this if you have a valid passport and do not have a criminal record.
If you want to work and live in Vietnam, then you are obliged to obtain a work permit as well as holding a visa or temporary residence card. Bear in mind that the policy regarding residence cards varies in different provinces of Vietnam.
Want to invest some of your savings in one of the world’s fastest-growing economies? Foreign investors may find it easier than other expats to acquire a long term visa.
How Can I Contact the Vietnam Immigration Department?
You can contact the Immigration Office either by visiting the official website, giving them a ring, or stopping by in person.
English speaking Immigration officials are available to help you if required and will be able to clear up any questions you may have.
There are 3 offices located throughout the country in the North, South and the centre.
They are located in:
- Hanoi
- Danang
- Ho Chi Minh City
You can contact these offices during working hours: from 8:00 – 11:30 am and 1:30 – 4:00 pm Monday to Friday (excluding Public Holidays).
Frequently Asked Questions
You may have some questions about the logistics of immigration to Vietnam that you need clarifying before you make the leap.
Where Is the Vietnam Immigration Department in Ho Chi Minh?
The address for this department is:
No 161 Nguyen Du, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. It is located close to the leafy Tao Đàn Park.
You can also contact this immigration service by the following channels:
- Telephone: + (84)838299398.
- Fax: + (84)838244075.
- Email: phongqlxnc@vnn.vn
Where Can I Find the Vietnam Immigration Department in Hanoi?
The Immigration office in the Vietnamese capital can be found at the following address:
No. 44 – 46 Trần Phú street, Ba Đình ward, Hanoi.
There are a number of other embassies and official buildings in this area including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Chinese Embassy.
Want to call the Hanoi Immigration Department?
There are different contact numbers available depending on the nature of your enquiry.
- + (84)438264026 – about entering and exiting Vietnam, residing of foreigners in Vietnam, repatriation of citizens living abroad.
- + (84)438260922: – queries regarding entry and exit of Vietnam citizens.
- + (84)438257941 – about entry and exit at Vietnam borders.
- + (84)439345609 – for other administrative procedures.
What Was the Impact of Vietnam Immigration to Australia?
After the war, around 90,000 Vietnamese people arrived by boat to Australia. Today Vietnamese-Australians are one of the largest and most vibrant multicultural communities in Australia. This is the sixth largest overseas-born population in Australia.
Wondering how many Australians live in Vietnam today? Well, there are approximately 22,000 Australians living here. To acquire a permit to become a permanent resident Australians (and other nationalities) must meet a number of strict criteria. More information about this can be found in the country’s immigration department.
