Vietnam has rapidly become a magnet for international business exploration, and New Zealand entrepreneurs are increasingly turning their attention to this Southeast Asian powerhouse. Whether you’re visiting to assess investment …
As Vietnam grows into one of Southeast Asia’s leading hubs for innovation and economic development, more and more international events are being hosted across cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang. For New Zealand professionals—whether attending a conference, business summit, or industry expo—Vietnam presents exciting opportunities for networking, partnerships, and international growth. But before packing your bags, there’s one crucial step: getting the right visa. This guide breaks down everything New Zealand passport holders need to know about applying for a Vietnam visa in 2025 for business or professional purposes.
New Zealanders travelling to Vietnam to attend conferences, meetings, or professional events generally choose between two visa types: the E-Visa and the Business Visa (DN1 or DN2). While both are suitable, the right option depends on your length of stay, frequency of travel, and the nature of the event.
The E-Visa is ideal for short-term visits, such as attending conferences, seminars, or industry exhibitions. It’s completely online, fast, and available for up to 90 days, with options for both single and multiple entry. Most Kiwis prefer this option for straightforward, time-bound travel.
The Business Visa, on the other hand, is designed for travellers who are engaging more formally with a Vietnamese company or partner. It often applies to those attending internal meetings, contract discussions, or working with Vietnamese stakeholders directly. This visa usually requires an official invitation letter and must be arranged through the Vietnamese embassy or via an authorised agent.
While an invitation letter isn’t mandatory for the E-Visa, including one can boost your application’s success rate—especially if you’re attending a formal or high-profile business event.
Preparation is everything when it comes to visa applications. New Zealand citizens must ensure they provide complete, accurate documents based on the visa type they choose.
To start, ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned entry date into Vietnam. Your passport should also have at least two blank pages available for entry stamps.
If you’re applying for a Business Visa, you’ll need a formal letter of invitation from the Vietnamese company or event organiser. This should clearly state your personal details, reason for the visit, event or meeting name, and the expected duration of stay. It’s also helpful to include the host’s business registration or contact information.
Regardless of visa type, it’s recommended to gather supporting documentation such as your conference registration, event schedule, hotel booking, and return flight details. These materials help demonstrate the legitimacy of your trip and ensure a smoother approval process.
For the E-Visa, you’ll also need to upload a high-quality scan of your passport’s biodata page, along with a recent passport-style photo. The photo must meet standard criteria (neutral background, clear visibility, no hats or glasses), and all files must be submitted in the correct format and size as requested by the online application platform.
In 2025, New Zealanders can apply for a Vietnam visa through three main channels. Each has its own advantages, depending on your schedule and the urgency of your trip.
📌 Option 1: Apply Online for a Vietnam E-Visa
This is the most convenient option for most Kiwis. The process is 100% digital: fill out the form, upload your documents, pay the processing fee, and wait for approval. The visa is usually issued within 3 to 7 business days, and you’ll receive a PDF via email. Print this out and bring it when entering Vietnam.
📌 Option 2: Apply for a Business Visa via the Vietnamese Embassy
For travellers needing multiple entries or a longer stay than the E-Visa allows, a DN1 or DN2 business visa may be more appropriate. Applications can be submitted through the Vietnamese Embassy or a licensed agent in New Zealand. This type of visa typically requires more documentation, including an invitation letter and details of your Vietnamese host organisation. Processing takes about 7 to 10 working days.
📌 Option 3: Use a Professional Visa Service
If you’re on a tight schedule or prefer expert help, using a professional visa agency is highly recommended. Services like Vietnam Immigration Services offer fast-track processing, support with document preparation, and guidance throughout the application. They can even deliver urgent visas within 2 to 8 hours, making them ideal for last-minute trips.
Once your visa is approved, there are still a few key things to keep in mind to ensure a smooth entry into Vietnam.
First, make sure your declared travel purpose matches your visa type. If you’re entering for business or conference purposes, this must align with the visa you’ve been granted. Misrepresenting your travel purpose can result in delays or denial at the border.
Before departure, double-check that your visa information is correct—including your name, passport number, entry and exit dates, and number of allowed entries. Mistakes, even small ones, can cause problems upon arrival.
Carry printed copies of your visa approval, hotel bookings, return tickets, and any invitation letters or event confirmation. While these may not be checked every time, having them ready can speed up processing at the border and show that your trip is legitimate.
Finally, make sure you do not overstay your visa. If your business trip extends beyond your visa’s validity, speak with a local visa service in Vietnam well in advance to apply for an extension. Staying beyond your authorised period can result in fines or future travel restrictions.
For professionals who want a stress-free experience, using a trusted visa service can make all the difference. These services ensure your paperwork is error-free, offer guidance, and often include expedited processing—especially helpful for time-sensitive business travel.
One of the top-rated platforms is Vietnam Immigration Services. Their team has assisted thousands of travellers globally, including clients from New Zealand, and they specialise in handling conference and business visa applications efficiently.
✔ Lightning-fast processing—get your visa in as little as 2–8 hours
✔ Invitation letters not required for certain E-Visa types
✔ Submit only your passport scan and a digital photo—no complex forms
✔ Full-time customer support, available 24/7 in English
✔ 100% refund if the visa application is not approved
Whether you’re an executive, speaker, or attendee, a reliable visa service helps you stay focused on your event while they take care of the admin.
Vietnam continues to establish itself as a regional hub for business, innovation, and international collaboration. For Kiwis looking to connect with Asian markets or expand their professional network, attending a conference or business meeting in Vietnam is a powerful step forward.
The key is preparation. With the right visa, accurate documents, and the option of professional support, your business trip to Vietnam in 2025 can be efficient, compliant, and stress-free.
👉 Ready to apply now? Start here: https://www.vietnamimmigration.com/apply-vietnam-visa/
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