If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, getting a visa is an essential step. Luckily, Vietnam offers an easy and convenient option for many travelers: the visa on arrival (VOA) system. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Vietnam visa on arrival process, from eligibility requirements to application procedures and more.
What Is a Vietnam Visa on Arrival?
A Vietnam visa on arrival is a type of visa that allows travelers to enter Vietnam without obtaining a visa at a Vietnamese embassy or consulate before their trip. Instead, travelers apply for a pre-approved visa letter online before they travel, which they use to obtain a visa upon arrival at one of Vietnam’s international airports.
Eligibility for Vietnam Visa on Arrival
Most travelers are eligible for a Vietnam visa on arrival, including:
- Tourists visiting Vietnam for vacation
- Business travelers attending conferences, meetings, or exploring potential business opportunities
- Foreign students studying in Vietnam
- Diplomats, officials, and other people entering Vietnam for official purposes
Vietnam Visa on Arrival Requirements
To obtain a Vietnam visa on arrival, you’ll need to meet several requirements:
- A valid passport with at least six months’ validity remaining from your arrival date in Vietnam.
- A pre-approval letter from the Vietnamese Immigration Department.
- A completed entry and exit form (available on the airplane or at the airport).
- Two passport-sized photos (4 x 6 cm).
How to Apply for a Vietnam Visa on Arrival
Here’s how to apply for a Vietnam visa on arrival:
- Visit a reputable visa service website and complete the online application form.
- Pay the visa application fee using a credit card, debit card, or PayPal.
- Receive the visa approval letter via email within two business days.
- Print out the visa letter and bring it with you to Vietnam.
- Upon arrival at the airport, present your visa letter, passport, photos, and entry and exit form to the Immigration Officer.
- Pay the stamping fee (cash in USD or VND) to get your visa stamped in your passport.
Vietnam Visa on Arrival Fees
The Vietnam visa on arrival fees include two types of fees:
- Service fee: The fee paid to the visa service provider for processing your visa application and obtaining your pre-approval letter. The fee varies depending on the type of visa and the length of stay.
- Stamping fee: The fee paid to the Vietnamese government to stamp your visa at the airport. The fee is usually $25 for a single-entry visa and $50 for a multiple-entry visa.
Types of Vietnam Visas on Arrival
There are three main types of Vietnam visas on arrival:
- Single-entry visa: This visa allows one entry into Vietnam and is valid for up to 30 days.
- Multiple-entry visa: This visa allows multiple entries into Vietnam and is valid for up to one year.
- Business visa: This visa is for those traveling to Vietnam for business purposes and is valid for up to one year.
Advantages of Vietnam Visa on Arrival
Here are some advantages of the Vietnam visa on arrival system:
- Convenience: You can apply for the visa online from anywhere in the world, avoiding visits to embassies or consulates.
- Time-saving: You can receive your visa approval letter within two business days, saving time compared to traditional visa application processes.
- Flexibility: You can choose the type of visa that best suits your travel needs, including single-entry, multiple-entry, and business visas.
- Cost-effective: The visa on arrival system is generally less expensive than other visa application methods.
Common Misconceptions About Vietnam Visa on Arrival
There are several common misconceptions about the Vietnam visa on arrival system, including:
- The visa on arrival is not valid for land or sea entry.
- The visa on arrival cannot be used for entry at every airport in Vietnam.
- The visa on arrival does not guarantee entry into Vietnam, as the final decision rests with the Immigration Officer.
Conclusion
The Vietnam visa on arrival system is an excellent option for travelers who want to visit Vietnam without the hassle of obtaining a visa from a Vietnamese embassy or consulate. By following the simple application process and meeting the necessary requirements, you can obtain your visa approval letter quickly and easily before your trip. Remember to bring all required documents and fees to present to the Immigration Officer upon your arrival in Vietnam.
FAQs About Vietnam Visa on Arrival
- Is the Vietnam visa on arrival available for all nationalities?
- No, it’s only available for citizens of certain countries. Check with your visa service provider for eligibility details.
- How long does it take to process a Vietnam visa on arrival application?
- It usually takes two business days to receive your pre-approval letter via email.
- CanI apply for a Vietnam visa on arrival if I’m already in Vietnam?
- No, you must apply for the visa before your trip and obtain the pre-approval letter to present upon your arrival at the airport.
- Can I extend my Vietnam visa on arrival?
- Yes, you can extend your visa while in Vietnam by applying at the local Immigration Department.
- What should I do if I lose my visa approval letter?
- Contact your visa service provider immediately to request a replacement letter before your trip.
