Vietnam Visa On Arrival (VOA) – Options explained

Do I need a Vietnam Visa On Arrival?

Before diving into what a Visa On Arrival is, how to get one, or explaining the steps involved, it’s crucial to determine if you even need this option.

The short answer is: probably not!

For years, the Visa On Arrival was the most common way to enter Vietnam, especially for travelers who couldn’t arrange a visa beforehand. But the introduction of the e-visa system has changed this completely. The e-visa is now easier, quicker, and cheaper to obtain for most nationalities.

Additionally, Vietnam now has a visa exemption program, which allows travelers from select countries to enter Vietnam visa-free for a specific number of days.

1. Vietnam e-visa

The Vietnam e-visa is the most convenient option for travelers who do not qualify for visa-free entry.

• What is it? The e-visa is an electronic visa that you can apply for online.
• Duration: Valid for up to 90 days, single or multiple entry, depending on your choice during the application.
• How to get it: Apply via the official website: https://evisa.gov.vn.
• Processing time: Typically 3-5 working days, excluding weekends and holidays.
• Cost: $25 USD for single entry or $50 USD for multiple entry.

For a complete step-by-step guide to applying for an e-visa and tips to avoid common mistakes, check out our detailed article: Vietnam e-visa guide.

2. Visa-free entry

Visa-free entry allows travelers from certain countries to visit Vietnam without applying for a visa in advance.

• Who qualifies? Most countries in Southeast Asia and 11 European nations, including Germany, France, and the United Kingdom.
• What is it? This is a visa exemption program that allows short-term visits (usually 15-45 days) without any visa.

For the complete and up-to-date list of eligible countries and their specific visa-free durations, check our guide here: Vietnam visa exemption list.

Which countries do need a Visa On Arrival?

While the e-visa system and visa-free entry cover most travelers, there are still a few countries that cannot use these options. For citizens of these countries, a Visa On Arrival (VOA) might be the only way to enter Vietnam.

Who needs a Visa On Arrival?

The VOA is primarily for travelers from a small number of countries that are not eligible for visa-free entry or an e-visa. These are often countries in parts of Africa and a few in Asia, but exceptions can exist.To be sure whether your country is eligible for an e-visa or visa-free entry, always check the official website of the Vietnamese Immigration Department: https://evisa.gov.vn.

Who does NOT need a Visa On Arrival?

Most travelers from the following regions can either apply for an e-visa or enjoy visa-free entry:

• Europe: Most countries, including France, Germany, and the United Kingdom.
• North America: The United States and Canada.
• Southeast Asia: Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, and others.
• Oceania: Australia and New Zealand.
• South America: Many countries in this region can also apply for an e-visa or get visa free entry.

Important: If you need a visa but arrive at the airport without one, you will not be allowed to board your flight. Always verify your visa requirements in advance to avoid last-minute issues.

What is a Vietnam Visa On Arrival (VOA)?

A Vietnam Visa On Arrival (VOA) is a type of visa that allows travelers to obtain their visa upon arrival at designated international airports in Vietnam.

However, the VOA is not issued automatically when you arrive. To obtain it, you must first apply for a visa approval letter through a trusted travel agency or visa service. This letter acts as pre-approval for your visa and allows you to complete the visa process upon arrival in Vietnam.

The VOA process was popular for many years before the introduction of the e-visa system, as it provided flexibility for travelers who didn’t have access to a Vietnamese embassy. Today, it is mainly used by travelers who cannot apply for an e-visa or enter under visa-free entry.

How to get a visa on arrival for Vietnam?

By this point, you’ve likely determined that you’re not eligible for an e-visa or visa-free entry. This means your only option may be to apply for a Vietnam Visa On Arrival (VOA). However, it’s important to note that not all travelers will be able to use this option, especially if their country faces additional restrictions. In such cases, entry into Vietnam can be particularly challenging.

If you are eligible, here is a step-by-step guide to obtaining a Visa On Arrival:

Step 1: Getting a visa approval letter

The visa approval letter is a mandatory document that allows you to obtain a VOA at the airport upon arrival. It is not your visa itself but serves as official pre-approval.

Here’s how to get the approval letter:

1. Contact a reliable travel agency
   Find a trusted local travel agency or visa service that offers visa approval letter services. Many agencies allow you to apply for this letter directly through their website.
2. Prepare the required documents
   The travel agency may ask for the following documents:
   • Your Vietnam tour itinerary
   • Your hotel booking confirmation
   • Your flight tickets (to and from Vietnam)
   • A copy of your travel insurance policy
   • Scanned copies of all passports (valid for at least 6 months from your date of arrival in Vietnam).
3. Submit your documents
   Provide the required information and documents to the agency. If you booked a tour through the same agency, they may assist with preparing all the necessary paperwork.
4. Processing the approval letter
   • The agency will submit your application to the Vietnam Immigration Department on your behalf.
   • Processing typically takes 7-10 working days, but urgent options (3-4 working days) may be available at an additional cost.
5. Receive the approval letter
   Once approved, the visa approval letter will be emailed to you. Double-check all the details, such as your name, passport number, and arrival airport, to ensure accuracy.
6. Print your approval letter
   Print out the visa approval letter and carry it with you to the airport. Airlines will check this document before allowing you to board your flight to Vietnam.

Important note: The cost of obtaining the approval letter may vary depending on the agency and your nationality.

Step 2: Arriving at the airport

Once you have your visa approval letter and are ready to travel, there are a few important steps to complete upon arrival in Vietnam.

1. Arrival by flight
   The Vietnam Visa On Arrival (VOA) is only available at designated international airports in Vietnam. You must arrive at the airport you specified during your visa approval letter application. Changing your entry airport without updating your letter may cause issues at immigration.The designated airports for VOA include:
   • Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi)
   • Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Ho Chi Minh City)
   • Da Nang International Airport (Da Nang)
2. Prepare the necessary documents
   Upon arrival, you need to present the following documents at the Visa On Arrival counter before passing through border security:
   • Your printed visa approval letter
   • Two passport-sized photos (4×6 cm) with a plain background.
   • Your passport, valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date.
   • The visa stamping fee in cash (preferably USD).
3. Pay the stamping fee
   After presenting your documents, you will need to pay the visa stamping fee:
   • Single-entry visa: $25 USD
   • Multiple-entry visa: $50 USD
   Make sure to have the correct amount of cash in USD or VND, as credit cards are often not accepted.
4. Receive your visa and proceed to immigration
   Once your documents are verified and the fee is paid, the immigration officers will stamp your visa into your passport. Double-check the details on your visa for accuracy.
5. Pass border security and collect your luggage
   With your visa now valid, you can pass through border security, collect your bags, and officially begin your time in Vietnam.