Understanding journalist visa Vietnam: A guide for foreign correspondents

• November 06,2023
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Welcome to our comprehensive guide on navigating the intricacies of the journalist visa Vietnam! For media professionals and foreign correspondents, obtaining the appropriate visa is essential for reporting from Vietnam. In this article, we will walk you through the requirements, application process, and recent updates related to this type of visa. Let's delve into this right away!

WHAT IS A JOURNALIST VISA VIETNAM?

A journalist visa Vietnam is a type of visa issued to foreigners who are reporters and journalists wishing to enter Vietnam. Reporter visas are issued with two symbols: PV1 and PV2, depending on the length of time a foreigner lives and works in Vietnam.

• PV1 – This type of visa is issued to reporters and journalists permanently residing and working in Vietnam.

• PV2 – This type of visa is issued to reporters and journalists entering Vietnam for short-term activities.

DETAILED INFORMATION ABOUT EACH TYPE OF THE JOURNALIST VISA VIETNAM

PV1 visa

Law No. 47/QH13/2014 on immigration and Law No. 51/QH14/2019 have been amended and supplemented by the law on immigration and decision PV1 including the following information:

The validity period of PV1 visa for foreigners

A journalist visa Vietnam with the symbol PV1 is a vital document for foreign journalists seeking to report from within the country's borders. This type of visa is typically granted for a duration of up to one year.

This allows reporters and media professionals to engage in their work and cover events, stories, and developments in Vietnam. Moreover, one of the significant advantages of this journalist visa Vietnam is the opportunity to apply for a temporary residence card, which can extend your stay for up to two years. 

This residence card carries a symbol similar to that of a visa. It provides journalists with an extended period of stay and allows them to more effectively carry out their reporting duties and engage with the local community. 

Conditions for being granted a PV1 visa for foreigners

Before delving into the conditions for being granted a PV1 visa for foreigners, it's essential to understand the eligibility criteria and requirements that must be met by individuals seeking this journalist visa Vietnam.

• Foreigners with valid passports or international travel documents.

• Foreigners or foreign reporters do not fall into the cases that have not been allowed to enter the country according to regulations.

• Foreign reporters are invited or sponsored by agencies, organizations, or individuals in Vietnam.

PV1 visa application

Intending to apply for a PV1 visa, it's crucial to familiarize yourself with the process and prerequisites associated with obtaining a journalist visa Vietnam. When applying for a PV1 visa in Vietnam, several essential requirements need to be fulfilled:

• Your original passport, which should be valid for at least six months beyond your intended date of entry.

• A clear indication of the type of visa you are applying for, along with specific details regarding your intended entry date.

• Documents that provide proof of your status as a journalist or a member of the press residing in Vietnam.

• A completed Vietnam visa application form, adhering to the prescribed format.

• A copy of the entry dispatch issued by the Vietnam Immigration Department.

• Any additional documents that may be required as per the specific circumstances of your application.

One of the required documents when you apply for a journalist visa Vietnam is a reporter card

PV2 visa

The laws governing immigration in Vietnam, namely Law No. 47/QH13/2014 and Law No. 51/QH14/2019, have undergone revisions and updates with the enactment of the new immigration law and decision PV2. These changes encompass the inclusion of the following information:

The validity period of PV2 visa for foreigners

The PV2 visa in Vietnam holds a validity period of up to one year, which means that it can be issued for a maximum duration of 12 months. This time frame is particularly significant for foreign individuals who intend to stay in the country for an extended period while engaging in various activities, such as work, study, or family reunification. 

However, it's important to note that temporary residence cards do not apply to PV2 visas. This means that individuals holding a PV2 visa should plan their stay accordingly and ensure that their visa remains valid throughout their intended period in Vietnam.

Conditions for being granted a PV2 visa for foreigners

In order to be eligible for a PV2 visa as a foreigner in Vietnam, the following comprehensive conditions must be met:

• Possession of a valid passport: You are required to hold a passport or international travel document that is not only valid but also complies with the stipulated regulations.

• No entry ban: You must not be subject to any entry bans or restrictions imposed by Vietnamese authorities.

• Organizational guarantee: You need to secure a guarantee from a legally operating organization, company, or enterprise in Vietnam. This entity should vouch for your stay and activities within the country.

• Documentation for entry purpose: You must provide documents that clearly establish the purpose of your entry into Vietnam. Additionally, you should furnish evidence of your profession as a reporter to support your visa application.

PV2 visa application

When applying for a journalist visa Vietnam and specifically PV2, it's important to meet the following comprehensive requirements:

• A duly completed Vietnam visa application for foreign reporters, following the prescribed form NA1.

• Two passport-sized photos with a white background, each measuring 4*6 cm.

• Your original passport, which should have a minimum validity of at least 13 months from your intended date of entry. It should also have a minimum of two blank pages for visa issuance and stamping.

• Supporting documents that clearly demonstrate the purpose of your entry into Vietnam and your occupation as a reporter or journalist.

• An entry invitation letter, often referred to as an entry official letter, is issued to foreign reporters intending to work within Vietnam.

• Any other relevant documents as specified by the Immigration Department may vary based on your specific circumstances and the requirements of your application.

HOW MUCH IS THE JOURNALIST VISA VIETNAM FEE?

If you're planning to apply for a journalist visa Vietnam, you might be wondering "How much is the journalist visa to Vietnam fee?". In this section, we will share with you the cost associated with obtaining this type of visa.

• Please take note that the fee mentioned here is a compulsory payment made directly to the consulate and exclusively covers the cost of the visa application itself. It does not encompass any additional expenses related to document processing, translation services, or notarization, which may be required based on your specific circumstances.

PROCESSING TIME OF A JOURNALIST VISA VIETNAM

According to current regulations, the processing time for Vietnam journalist visa applications for foreign reporters is about 5 working days. The maximum time may be longer, from 7 to 10 days, starting from the time the competent authority receives all valid documents.

• Note:

  • In some cases, the review time may be longer than prescribed because the applicant needs to add a number of other related documents.

  • The time and location of receiving visa results will be clearly stated in the receipt when the business submits the application directly to the competent authority.

Application Vietnam Visa Online

WHERE TO SUBMIT VIETNAM VISA JOURNALIST APPLICATION?

Normally, you will not be able to enter Vietnam under a journalist visa Vietnam without a job offer letter. Agencies inviting and sponsoring foreigners in Vietnam to carry out procedures for applying for a Letter of Entry must submit the application to the Immigration Department, under the Ministry of Public Security of Vietnam.

Currently, the Immigration Department is headquartered in Hanoi and has a branch in Ho Chi Minh City. You can apply for an immigration guarantee letter at one of the following two points:

• Headquartered in Hanoi:

  • Address: 44-46 Tran Phu Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi.

  • Phone: 02438257941

  • Fax: 02438243287, 02438243288

  • Phone number to answer immigration procedures for Vietnamese citizens: 02438260922

  • Phone number to answer entry and exit procedures for foreigners: 02438264026

• Representative agency in Ho Chi Minh City:

  • Address: 333-335-337 Nguyen Trai Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.

  • Phone: 028.39202300

  • Phone number to answer immigration procedures for Vietnamese citizens: 028.38386425

  • Phone number to answer entry and exit procedures for foreigners: 028.39200365

The Immigration Department is headquartered in Hanoi

DOCUMENT FOR EXTENDING A JOURNALIST VISA IN VIETNAM FOR FOREIGNERS

Extending a journalist visa Vietnam for foreigners typically requires the submission of several essential documents and meeting specific criteria. To ensure a smooth and successful extension process, foreign journalists must typically prepare the following documentation:

• Visa extension application form: You will need to complete the official visa extension application form provided by the Vietnam Immigration Department. Ensure that you fill out all the required fields accurately and honestly.

• Valid passport: Your original passport must have a minimum of six months of validity remaining beyond your intended extension period. It should also have at least two blank pages for visa stamping.

• Current journalist visa: Provide a copy of your existing journalist visa. This serves as proof of your legal entry into Vietnam as a journalist.

• Invitation letter: Many journalists need to present an invitation or sponsorship letter from their media organization or employer in Vietnam. This letter should include details about your position, the purpose of your stay, and the duration of the extension.

• Visa extension fee: Be prepared to pay the applicable visa extension fee. The cost may vary depending on the duration of the extension and your nationality.

• Passport Photos: You will need two passport-sized photos (4*6 cm), taken recently and meeting the specified requirements.

• Criminal record check (if required): Some cases may necessitate providing a criminal record check from both your home country and Vietnam.

• Additional documentation: Depending on your specific situation and the discretion of the immigration authorities, you may be asked to submit other documents or clarifications.

• Proof of journalism credentials: To establish your status as a journalist, you should include documents such as a reporter card, press identification, or a letter of authorization from your media organization. These documents confirm your profession and purpose of stay.

• Proof of relationship (if applicable): If you have any family members in Vietnam and wish to include them in your visa application, you will need to provide documents proving your relationships, such as marriage certificates or birth certificates.

WHAT ARE IMPORTANT NOTES FOR APPLYING FOR A JOURNALIST VISA VIETNAM?

Obtaining a journalist visa Vietnam is a process that requires careful preparation and adherence to specific guidelines. Here are important notes to consider before, during, and after applying for a journalist visa:

Before applying for a journalist visa to Vietnam

Before embarking on the process of applying for a journalist visa Vietnam, there are several critical considerations and steps to take into account:

• Check visa eligibility: Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for a journalist visa, such as being a journalist, reporter, or media professional with a valid reason to work in Vietnam.

• Gather required documents: Collect all the necessary documents, including a valid passport, invitation letter from a recognized media organization, proof of journalism credentials, and other supporting documents.

• Plan your stay: Determine the duration of your stay in Vietnam and whether you will need to apply for a single-entry or multiple-entry journalist visa.

• Research Vietnamese laws: Familiarize yourself with Vietnam's laws and regulations related to journalism, reporting, and media activities to ensure compliance.

• Contact the Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate: Reach out to the nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate to confirm the latest visa requirements, fees, and processing times.

• Obtain health and travel insurance: Consider acquiring comprehensive health and travel insurance to cover unforeseen circumstances during your stay in Vietnam.

While applying for a journalist visa Vietnam

Navigating the application process for a journalist visa Vietnam involves careful attention to detail and adherence to specific procedures, such as:

• Complete the application form: Carefully fill out the visa application form, providing accurate and honest information.

• Submit required documents: Ensure that you include all the necessary documents, such as the invitation letter, proof of journalism credentials, and any other documents specified by the authorities.

• Pay the visa fee: Be prepared to pay the visa fee, which can vary based on your nationality and the duration of your stay.

• Review your application carefully: Double-check your visa application and attached documents to minimize the risk of errors or omissions.

• Follow processing guidelines: Abide by the processing guidelines provided by the Vietnamese embassy or consulate, such as processing times and submission procedures.

• Seek assistance when needed: If you have questions or concerns during the application process, don't hesitate to contact the embassy or consulate for clarification or guidance.

After obtaining a journalist visa to Vietnam

Once you've successfully applied for a journalist visa to Vietnam, it's essential to be aware of the actions and responsibilities that follow to ensure a smooth and compliant journey during your stay:

• Comply with local regulations: Upon your arrival in Vietnam, adhere to local laws and regulations regarding journalism and media activities.

• Carry identification: Keep a copy of your journalist visa, passport, and any press credentials with you at all times while working in Vietnam.

• Stay informed: Stay informed about any changes in visa regulations or laws pertaining to journalism in Vietnam during your stay.

• Extend your visa (if necessary): If your initial visa duration is insufficient, apply for an extension well before your visa expires, providing valid reasons for the extension.

• Respect local customs: Be respectful of local customs, traditions, and sensitivities while conducting your journalistic work.

• Report loss or issues: In case of visa loss, issues with your visa, or other emergencies, immediately contact your embassy, consulate, or local authorities for assistance.

Remember to take careful notes throughout the process before, during, and after applying for a journalist visa Vietnam

WHAT ARE FAQS ABOUT JOURNALIST VISA TO VIETNAM?

Curious about the frequently asked questions regarding the journalist visa Vietnam? Let's delve into the key inquiries and their informative answers in the following section.

Can I extend a journalist visa in Vietnam?

Yes, it is possible to extend a journalist visa in Vietnam. To do so, you will need to provide valid reasons, such as ongoing assignments or projects, and meet the necessary requirements.

Can I work as a journalist in Vietnam without a journalist visa?

No, working as a journalist in Vietnam without the appropriate visa is illegal. You must obtain the necessary journalist visa to conduct journalistic activities in the country.

Are there any restrictions on reporting or activities for journalists in Vietnam?

While there are no specific restrictions on reporting, journalists are expected to adhere to Vietnamese laws and regulations. It's essential to be aware of the local media guidelines and respect cultural norms and sensitivities.

Can I apply for a journalist visa upon arrival in Vietnam?

No, journalist visas are typically not available as visa-on-arrival. You must obtain a journalist visa before your arrival in Vietnam through the Vietnamese embassy or consulate.

Is it possible to convert a tourist visa to a journalist visa while in Vietnam?

Converting a tourist visa to a journalist visa within Vietnam can be complex and may require exiting and re-entering the country. It's advisable to apply for the appropriate visa type in advance.

Can freelance journalists apply for a journalist visa in Vietnam?

Freelance journalists may apply for a journalist visa if they have a recognized media organization's support and an invitation letter. However, the requirements can vary, so it's best to check with the relevant embassy or consulate.

What should I do if I want to cover sensitive or restricted topics in Vietnam?

Reporting on sensitive or restricted topics in Vietnam may require additional permissions. It's crucial to liaise with the Vietnamese authorities, and your media organization, and follow local regulations to ensure your safety and compliance.

Are there any specific restrictions on photography or videography in Vietnam?

While there are no specific restrictions on photography or videography, it's essential to respect individuals' privacy and avoid taking photos or videos in restricted areas, such as military zones or government buildings.

What should I do if I lose my journalist visa in Vietnam?

If you lose your journalist visa, you should report the loss to the local police and your embassy or consulate immediately. You may need to apply for a replacement visa, which can be a time-consuming process.

Can I bring my family members with me on a journalist visa?

Journalist visas are typically issued for the journalists themselves. If you wish to bring family members, they may need to apply for the appropriate visa type, such as a tourist or dependent visa.

Can I continue my journalism work remotely while in Vietnam on a journalist visa?

It's generally permissible to work remotely as a journalist in Vietnam, but you must ensure that you have the necessary visa and comply with local regulations related to online activities.

In conclusion, securing a journalist visa Vietnam is a vital step for foreign journalists, reporters, and media professionals seeking to engage in their work within the country. Careful planning, adherence to visa regulations, and staying informed about the ever-evolving landscape of journalism in Vietnam are key to a successful and productive experience.

Remember to keep updated with the latest visa requirements and regulations from the Vietnamese authorities and maintain a respectful approach to local customs, laws, and sensitivities throughout your stay. Your role as a journalist in Vietnam paves the way for your meaningful contributions to the field of media and reporting.

If you need further assistance with your Vietnam visas, just feel free to contact us by phone at +84 28 7303 6167 or send us an email at support@e-visa-gov.com any time. We are committed to ensuring your contentment and are willing to help.