International students must obtain the appropriate visa before entering Vietnam. HUFLIT supports students throughout the visa pre-approval process to ensure a smooth and timely arrival in Ho Chi Minh City.

1. Visa Type for International Students

Student Visa (Type DH)

All international students studying in Vietnam are required to obtain a DH (student) visa issued by the Vietnam Immigration Department.

Tourist visas cannot be converted into student visas within Vietnam. Students must complete the student visa process before entering the country.

2. HUFLIT’s Visa Support

The Department of External Relations (DER) supports students by:

• Preparing and submitting visa-related documents
• Requesting visa pre-approval from the Vietnam Immigration Department
• Providing official documents required for visa application at the Vietnam Embassy or Consulate

While HUFLIT provides full support during the process, maintaining valid visa status remains the responsibility of the student.

3. Student Visa Procedure

Step 1: Letter of Acceptance and Instructions

After admission, HUFLIT issues a Letter of Acceptance. Students should contact the Vietnam Embassy or Consulate in their country to obtain the latest visa requirements.

Step 2: Visa Application Submission (by HUFLIT)

HUFLIT submits the required documents to the Vietnam Immigration Department.
Processing time is typically 5 to 7 working days, depending on current procedures.

Step 3: Visa Pre-Approval

Once approved, the Immigration Department sends the pre-approval to the selected Embassy or Consulate. HUFLIT will also provide a copy to the student.

Step 4: Visa Application at Embassy or Consulate
(Please contact the Embassy directly for updated requirements and processing time.)

Students are required to prepare the following documents:

• Passport valid for at least 6 months with at least two blank pages
• Printed visa pre-approval letter
• Letter of Acceptance from HUFLIT
• Visa application form as required by the Embassy or Consulate
• Visa application fee (varies by country)

Step 5: Visa Issuance

Students will receive a DH (student) visa. The entry type (single or multiple entry) depends on approval and program duration.

Step 6: Submit Pre-Arrival Information before arriving in Vietnam
(Starting from April 15, 2026, all foreign nationals and overseas Vietnamese entering Vietnam through Tan Son Nhat International Airport via a visa are required to complete a digital arrival card. You can refer to the instruction video HERE).

1. Access the official submission portal:
👉 https://prearrival.immigration.gov.vn/apps/submit-document

2. Complete all required sections, including:

• PASSENGER INFORMATION
• TRIP INFORMATION

3. Prepare and fill in the required information:

• A clear passport photo page (image file)
• Visa details (select visa type: “Visa”)
• Personal information (full name, nationality, date of birth, passport number, etc.)
• Travel details (flight number, expected arrival date, port of entry in Vietnam, etc.)
• Accommodation information in Vietnam

For TRIP INFORMATION, please note:

• Purpose of Travel: Select Study Abroad
• Workplace Information: Enter
  Ho Chi Minh City University of Foreign Languages – Information Technology
  (828 Su Van Hanh Street, Hoa Hung Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam)

4. Review and submit your information
After completing all sections, please carefully review your details and click Submit.

5. Download your Pre-Arrival Card
After submission, please select Download PDF Pre-arrival card and keep a copy (digital or printed) to present upon arrival at the airport in Vietnam.

📌 Important Notes:

• This step is mandatory for all international students entering Vietnam.
• Please complete the submission within 72 hours prior to your departure.
• Ensure all information is accurate and consistent with your official documents to avoid any issues during immigration procedures.

4. Visa Validity and Duration

The validity of the visa is determined by the Immigration Department and may include additional time before and after the academic program.

After completing the program, HUFLIT will no longer sponsor the student visa. Students must leave Vietnam or apply for another visa type if they wish to stay for other purposes.

5. Important Notes

Students are responsible for:

• Submitting all required documents on time
• Checking processing timelines with the Embassy or Consulate
• Ensuring passport validity meets requirements

HUFLIT is not responsible for delays caused by incomplete or late submissions.

6. Policy Updates

Vietnam visa regulations may change depending on government policies.

Currently, student visas require pre-approval from the Immigration Department. Tourist visas cannot be converted into student visas within Vietnam, and visa issuance must be completed at an Embassy or Consulate outside Vietnam.

Students are advised to follow the latest instructions from both HUFLIT and the relevant Embassy or Consulate.