Overview of Family and Dependent Visas in Vietnam

Family and Dependent Visas in Vietnam are designed for foreign nationals who wish to bring their family members to live in Vietnam. This includes spouses, children, and sometimes other dependents. The most common visa types for family members are the ĐT (Investment) Visa and the TT (Temporary Resident Card) for family members of foreign investors or expatriates working in Vietnam.

Relevant National Regulations

1. Law on Foreigners’ Entry, Exit, Transit, and Residence in Vietnam (2014) - This law governs the entry and residence of foreigners in Vietnam, including family and dependent visas.
2. Circular No. 04/2015/TT-BCA - This circular provides detailed guidelines on the issuance of visas and temporary resident cards for foreigners and their family members.

Eligibility Criteria

• Spouse: Must be legally married to a foreign national residing in Vietnam.
• Children: Must be biological or legally adopted children under the age of 18.
• Other Dependents: May include elderly parents or other relatives, but this is less common and may require additional documentation.

Required Documentation

1. Application Form: Completed visa application form (available at the Vietnamese embassy or consulate).
2. Passport: Valid passport of the applicant with at least six months of validity remaining.
3. Marriage Certificate: For spouses, a legalized marriage certificate is required.
4. Birth Certificate: For children, a birth certificate (translated into Vietnamese) is needed.
5. Proof of Residency: The sponsor in Vietnam must provide proof of their legal residency status (e.g., work permit, investment certificate).
6. Health Insurance: Some applications may require proof of health insurance coverage.
7. Photos: Recent passport-sized photos of the applicant.
8. Financial Proof: Evidence of financial stability may be required to support the dependents.

Application Procedures

1. Gather Documentation: Collect all required documents as listed above.
2. Submit Application: Applications can be submitted at the nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate or directly at the Immigration Department in Vietnam.
3. Pay Fees: Pay the applicable visa fees (details below).
4. Interview: In some cases, an interview may be required.
5. Receive Visa: Once approved, the visa will be issued, allowing the family member to enter Vietnam.

Costs

• Visa Fees: The cost for a Family or Dependent Visa can vary based on the type and duration. Generally, fees range from $25 to $100 for a single-entry visa, while multiple-entry visas may cost more.
• Additional Costs: There may be additional costs for document translation, notarization, and health insurance.

Processing Times

• Standard Processing: Typically, processing times range from 5 to 15 business days. However, this can vary based on the specific circumstances and the workload of the immigration office.
• Expedited Processing: Some embassies or consulates may offer expedited services for an additional fee.

Country-Specific Considerations

• Cultural Sensitivity: Understanding Vietnamese culture and customs is crucial. Family is highly valued in Vietnamese society, and showing respect for local traditions can facilitate smoother interactions.
• Language Barrier: While many officials may speak English, having a Vietnamese-speaking individual assist with the application process can be beneficial.
• Legalization of Documents: Ensure that all foreign documents are properly legalized or apostilled, as this is often a requirement for acceptance in Vietnam.

Cultural Aspects

• Family Values: Vietnamese culture places a strong emphasis on family. When applying for a Family or Dependent Visa, it’s important to demonstrate the genuine nature of the family relationship.
• Community Integration: Engaging with local communities and understanding cultural norms can help family members adapt more easily to life in Vietnam.

Conclusion

Obtaining a Family or Dependent Visa in Vietnam involves a clear understanding of the legal requirements, documentation, and cultural context. By following the outlined procedures and being mindful of local customs, applicants can navigate the process more effectively. For the most accurate and updated information, it is advisable to consult the nearest Vietnamese embassy or the official website of the Vietnam Immigration Department.