How to Apply for a Vietnam Visa: A Complete Guide

Planning a trip to Vietnam? One of the first things you’ll need to figure out is how to apply for a Vietnam visa. Whether you're visiting for tourism, business, or any other short-term purpose, obtaining a visa is an essential step. Fortunately, the process has been streamlined, and there are several ways to apply for a Vietnam visa, including online options. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to apply for a Vietnam visa.

Types of Vietnam Visas

Before diving into how to apply for a Vietnam visa, it's important to understand the different types of visas available:

1. Tourist Visa: Ideal for travelers visiting Vietnam for leisure or sightseeing purposes. This visa is typically valid for 30 days.
2. Business Visa: For individuals visiting Vietnam for work or business meetings.
3. E-Visa: An electronic visa that allows for a quick online application, which is ideal for tourists or business travelers.
4. Visa on Arrival (VOA): This is available for those flying into Vietnam, where you can obtain your visa at the airport.
5. Visa through Embassy/Consulate: For longer stays or other specific visa needs, you may need to apply for a visa through a Vietnamese embassy or consulate.

How to Apply for a Vietnam Visa

1. Apply for a Vietnam E-Visa Online The most convenient way to apply for a Vietnam visa is through the eVisa system. The eVisa allows you to apply online without visiting an embassy or consulate.

Step-by-Step Process for eVisa Application:

• Step 1: Visit the Official Vietnam E-Visa Website Go to the official Vietnam eVisa website (always use the government-approved website to avoid extra fees).

• Step 2: Fill Out the Online Application Form Complete the online form with personal details such as your name, nationality, passport number, travel dates, and contact information.

• Step 3: Upload Required Documents You will need to upload a digital photo of yourself and a scanned copy of the biographical page of your passport. Make sure these documents meet the specified requirements.

• Step 4: Pay the Application Fee Once your details and documents are in place, you’ll need to pay a non-refundable processing fee using a credit or debit card.

• Step 5: Submit Your Application After filling out the form and paying the fee, submit your application. You will receive a confirmation email once your application is submitted.

• Step 6: Wait for Approval The processing time for an eVisa typically takes 3 business days. Once your eVisa is approved, you will receive it by email. Print the approval letter and keep it with you for your entry into Vietnam.

2. Apply for a Vietnam Visa on Arrival (VOA) A Vietnam visa on arrival is an option for travelers arriving by air. To apply for a VOA, you must first complete an online application form and receive an approval letter before your trip. Here’s how:

• Step 1: Apply Online for a Visa Approval Letter Complete an online application for a visa approval letter, which can be obtained through various authorized travel agencies. You’ll need to provide details about your flight and travel dates.

• Step 2: Receive Your Visa Approval Letter After processing, you’ll receive a visa approval letter via email. The letter will allow you to pick up your visa when you arrive in Vietnam.

• Step 3: Get Your Visa at the Airport Upon arrival at one of Vietnam’s international airports, go to the visa on arrival counter, present your approval letter, along with your passport, photographs, and processing fee. You’ll be issued your visa right there at the airport.

3. Apply for a Vietnam Visa Through an Embassy or Consulate If you prefer or need a longer stay, or if you’re traveling by land, you may need to apply for a Vietnam visa through a Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your country. Here’s how:

• Step 1: Prepare Required Documents Gather all the necessary documents, including your passport (valid for at least 6 months), passport-sized photos, and the completed visa application form. You may also need to provide travel dates and details of your stay in Vietnam.

• Step 2: Submit Your Application Submit your completed application form and required documents to the nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate. Some embassies may allow you to apply by mail.

• Step 3: Pay the Visa Fee You will need to pay the visa fee, which varies depending on the type of visa and the embassy. The payment can often be made in person or via a money order if applying by mail.

• Step 4: Wait for Processing The processing time for a visa at the embassy is typically about 5 to 7 business days, though it can vary. Once approved, you’ll be issued your visa, which will be affixed to your passport.

Important Information to Keep in Mind

• Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your intended date of entry into Vietnam. Failure to meet this requirement may result in a visa rejection.
• Processing Time: Visa processing times vary depending on the method you choose. For eVisas, it generally takes 3 business days, while embassy visas can take 5-7 days.
• Approved Entry Points: For eVisas and VOA, make sure to enter Vietnam through one of the approved international airports or land borders, as not all points of entry are eligible.
• Single vs. Multiple Entry: Most visas are single-entry, but you can also apply for a multiple-entry visa if you plan to leave and re-enter Vietnam during your stay.

Conclusion

Knowing how to apply for a Vietnam visa is essential for ensuring a smooth and hassle-free entry into the country. Whether you choose the convenience of an eVisa, opt for a visa on arrival, or prefer to visit an embassy for a traditional visa, the process is straightforward and designed to meet the needs of various travelers. Be sure to apply early and check the specific requirements based on your nationality and travel plans to ensure a seamless experience when visiting Vietnam.

Easily apply for your eVisa online by visiting Tourist Requirements.

Previous | Next