Traveling from Hong Kong to Vietnam has never been more popular. With direct flights from Hong Kong International Airport to major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang taking just around 2-3 hours, thousands of Hong Kong citizens visit Vietnam every year for leisure, business, family visits, or even long-term career opportunities. However, understanding the entry requirements is essential to ensure a smooth journey.
In this comprehensive guide, we cover everything Hong Kong passport holders need to know about Vietnam visa for Hong Kong citizens in 2025, as well as the process for obtaining a Vietnam work permit if you’re planning to live and work in the country. Whether you’re a tourist, business traveler, or professional relocating to Vietnam’s booming economy, this article will help you navigate the requirements confidently.
At EntryVietnamVisa.com, we specialize in hassle-free Vietnam visa processing, including e-Visas, Visa on Arrival support, business visas, and full assistance with work permits and temporary residence cards. Our 24/7 support team helps travelers from Hong Kong and beyond secure approvals quickly and securely.
Do Hong Kong Citizens Need a Visa to Enter Vietnam in 2025?
Yes — Hong Kong citizens (holders of HKSAR passports) are required to obtain a valid visa to enter mainland Vietnam for tourism, business, or any other purpose. Unlike some nationalities that enjoy visa exemptions, Hong Kong passport holders do not qualify for general visa-free entry to Vietnam.
The good news? Vietnam offers several convenient options in 2025, including the popular electronic visa (e-Visa) system, which allows you to apply entirely online without visiting an embassy.
Limited Exceptions:
- Phu Quoc Island only: If your entire trip is to Phu Quoc Island and lasts no more than 30 days (with entry and exit via Phu Quoc Airport), you may be eligible for visa exemption. However, if your itinerary includes other parts of Vietnam (e.g., a domestic flight to Ho Chi Minh City), you must have a full visa.
- APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) holders: If you hold a valid APEC card, you can enter Vietnam visa-free for business purposes for up to 90 days (subject to card conditions).
For the vast majority of travelers, securing a visa in advance is mandatory. Failing to do so can result in denied boarding or entry.
Vietnam Visa Options for Hong Kong Citizens
Hong Kong passport holders have access to flexible visa types in 2025. Here are the main choices:
- Vietnam e-Visa (Most Recommended for Tourists and Short Business Trips)
The e-Visa is a fully electronic visa issued by Vietnam’s Immigration Department. It’s valid for single or multiple entries and allows stays of up to 90 days (depending on the option selected).
- Eligibility: Open to Hong Kong citizens.
- Validity: Up to 90 days from the selected entry date.
- Entry points: Available at 13 airports, 16 land borders, and 13 seaports.
- Requirements:
- Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date.
- At least 2 blank pages.
- Digital passport scan and recent photo.
- Processing time: Usually 3-5 working days (urgent options available).
- Cost: Government fee + service fee (affordable through trusted agencies). The e-Visa is the simplest option — apply online, pay securely, and receive the approval via email. No need to send your passport anywhere.
- Visa on Arrival (VOA)
This option involves getting an approval letter online before departure, then stamping the visa upon arrival at one of Vietnam’s international airports.
- Suitable for air travelers only.
- Available in single/multiple entry and various durations.
- Requires an approval letter from a licensed agency + stamping fee paid at the airport.
- Popular for flexibility, but involves queuing at the immigration counter.
- Visa Sticker through Vietnamese Consulate in Hong Kong
Apply in person or by mail at the Consulate General of Vietnam in Hong Kong (15/F, Great Smart Tower, 230 Wan Chai Road, Wan Chai).
- Good for those preferring a traditional process.
- Processing time varies.
- Requires submitting your passport temporarily.
For most Hong Kong travelers, the e-Visa is the fastest and most convenient choice in 2025.
How to Apply for Vietnam Visa for Hong Kong Citizens (Step-by-Step)
- Visit a trusted agency like EntryVietnamVisa.com or the official e-Visa portal (evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn).
- Fill in the online application form with your passport details, travel dates, and entry point.
- Upload required documents (passport bio page + photo).
- Pay the fee securely online.
- Receive your e-Visa or approval letter by email (print it for immigration).
- Present it upon arrival along with your passport.
Our team at EntryVietnamVisa.com offers expedited processing (often within hours during business days) and 24/7 support via WhatsApp/email.
Transitioning to Work in Vietnam: The Vietnam Work Permit Explained
Many Hong Kong professionals are drawn to Vietnam’s dynamic economy — from finance and tech in Ho Chi Minh City to manufacturing and education roles nationwide. If you plan to work long-term, you’ll need a Vietnam work permit in addition to the appropriate visa.
Who Needs a Vietnam Work Permit?
Almost all foreigners working under a labor contract, intra-company transfer, or providing services must obtain one (unless exempt). The work permit is issued by the Department of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs (DOLISA) or the Ministry of Labor.
Key Requirements (Updated 2025):
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Have relevant qualifications and experience (e.g., university degree + 3-5 years’ experience for expert roles).
- No criminal record (provide certificates from Hong Kong and any country lived in for >6 months).
- Health certificate meeting Vietnam standards.
- The position must be one that a Vietnamese citizen cannot easily fill (manager, executive, expert, or technical worker).
Documents Typically Required:
- Application form (from employer).
- Passport copy.
- Degree certificates (notarized + translated into Vietnamese).
- Work experience proof.
- Employment contract draft.
- Sponsorship letter from the Vietnamese company.
Validity: Up to 2 years, renewable once (another 2 years). After that, a new application is needed.
Process Overview:
- Employer applies for approval to hire foreign workers (if required).
- Submit work permit dossier to DOLISA (processing: 5-20 working days).
- Receive the work permit.
- Apply for a work visa (LD type) or temporary residence card (TRC) based on the permit.
Without a work permit, working illegally can lead to fines, deportation, and penalties for the employer.
Combining Vietnam Visa and Work Permit for Hong Kong Citizens
Hong Kong professionals often start with a business visa (DN type) or e-Visa for initial entry and job hunting. Once a job offer is secured:
- The employer sponsors the work permit.
- You convert to a work visa or get a TRC (valid 2+ years).
This path allows seamless transition from visitor to legal resident worker.
Why Choose EntryVietnamVisa.com for Your Vietnam Visa and Work Permit Needs?
At EntryVietnamVisa.com, we make the process simple and reliable:
- Fast e-Visa approvals (often same-day or next-day).
- Full support for Visa on Arrival, business visas, and long-stay options.
- Expert assistance with Vietnam work permits, temporary residence cards, and visa extensions.
- Affordable pricing with no hidden fees.
- 24/7 customer support for Hong Kong travelers.
Whether you’re planning a short holiday to Hanoi or Halong Bay, a business trip to Ho Chi Minh City, or a career move to Da Nang’s tech scene, we handle the paperwork so you can focus on enjoying Vietnam’s incredible culture, food, beaches, and opportunities.
Ready to apply? Visit EntryVietnamVisa.com today for instant quotes and expert guidance. Secure your Vietnam visa for Hong Kong citizens and prepare for your Vietnam work permit — your adventure awaits!
