ĐT3 — Investor Visa ĐT3 (Small Investor)

The Investor Visa ĐT3 was established as a cornerstone of Vietnam’s evolving legal framework for foreign direct investment, specifically codified under the Law on Entry, Exit, Transit, and Residence of Foreigners in Vietnam. This visa category was designed to bridge the gap between large-scale multinational corporate investment and individual entrepreneurial activity, providing a structured pathway for mid-sized foreign capital to enter the Vietnamese market. By formalizing the entry requirements for investors contributing between 3 billion and 50 billion VND, the Vietnamese government sought to incentivize small-to-medium enterprise (SME) growth, regional development, and the diversification of the private sector. It serves as a vital instrument in the country’s broader economic strategy to attract international expertise and capital into sectors that might not require the massive industrial scale of Tier 1 or Tier 2 investments, thereby fostering a more inclusive and dynamic investment climate that aligns with Vietnam's commitment to international trade agreements and global economic integration.

The ideal applicant for the ĐT3 visa is an international entrepreneur or small-scale investor looking to establish a long-term commercial presence in Vietnam, whether through a newly formed company, a joint venture, or the acquisition of existing shares. This visa is particularly well-suited for professionals in fields such as boutique manufacturing, specialized services, technology startups, or retail and hospitality, where the capital threshold reflects a commitment to operational sustainability rather than passive investment. What makes the ĐT3 distinctive compared to other work or business visas is its focus on ownership and capital contribution; unlike a standard work permit that ties an individual to a specific employer, the ĐT3 grants the holder the autonomy to manage their own business interests and reside in the country for up to three years. While it offers the significant benefit of long-term stability and the potential for subsequent residency renewals, it is limited by the strict requirement for documented capital verification and compliance with Vietnamese investment laws. Applicants must be prepared to provide rigorous financial evidence of their contribution, as the visa is strictly tied to the legitimacy and scale of the investment, ensuring that the holder is actively contributing to the local economy while enjoying the professional freedom that comes with being a recognized investor in the Vietnamese market.