Vietnam Visa – 3 best ways to apply

Vietnam Visa On Arrival (VOA) stopped

In the past, the main way to obtain a visa for Vietnam was through the Visa on Arrival (VOA) program. This involved applying for an approval letter through a travel agency, which was then used upon arrival to obtain the visa. The VOA program offered options for a one-month or three-month visa, as well as single-entry or multiple-entry visas.

However, it’s important to note that the VOA program has been completely stopped and replaced by the e-visa system.

Apply for a Vietnam visa

When planning to enter Vietnam, it is essential to keep in mind that, regardless of your nationality (excluding Vietnamese passport holders), you will need to obtain a visa. While there are limited visa exemptions available, they apply only to a select few countries and have restrictions on the duration of the visit. It is crucial to be aware of this requirement to avoid a costly mistake.

It is a common error for people to assume that they can enter Vietnam without a visa, but this misconception can lead to significant financial consequences. It is strictly enforced that individuals without a valid visa are not even allowed to board their flight to Vietnam. If caught without a visa, you may be required to change or even cancel your flight, resulting in substantial expenses.

Additionally, the process of applying for a Vietnam visa can take some time, so it is crucial to start the application process early and be prepared. It is important to understand the specific requirements and allow ample time for processing to ensure that you have the necessary visa before your planned departure.

There are 3 ways to get an entry to Vietnam depending on your nationality:

1. Vietnam visa exemption
2. Vietnam E-visa
3. Vietnam Visa invitation letter

1. Vietnam visa exemption

Vietnam offers visa exemption for citizens of certain countries; however, this option is unfortunately limited to only a few countries.

Citizens from Southeast Asian countries can enjoy a visa exemption for up to 30 days.

There are only 11 European countries, including the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Russia, Belarus, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and Finland, that are exempted from obtaining a visa for a shorter stay of 45 days in Vietnam.

If you wish to stay longer than the permitted duration or if your country is not included in the visa exemption list, you will need to opt for the e-visa option. This applies to citizens from countries such as Australia, the United States, Canada, the Netherlands, Belgium, and New Zealand. These countries are not eligible for the visa exemption.

Additionally, there is a special visa exemption for Phu Quoc Island, where visitors can stay for up to 30 days without a visa. However, if you plan to leave the island and travel to the mainland, you will be required to have a valid Vietnam visa in advance.

2. Vietnam E-visa

The Vietnam e-visa has become the most popular method for obtaining a visa since the discontinuation of visa on arrival services by the Vietnam immigration service. Currently, citizens from 80 countries are eligible to apply for an e-visa. The process is straightforward, and you can apply directly through the official website of the Vietnamese immigration service. The cost of the e-visa is 25 USD.

While there are visa agencies that offer assistance with the application process, it’s important to note that they often utilize the same official website. Choosing to use their services may result in higher fees and longer processing times.

Currently, the Vietnam e-visa is valid for a maximum of 90 days (3 months). This means that you don’t automatically receive a visa for 90 days; instead, the visa will be valid for the specific dates you provide in your application, up to the 90-day limit. Once you have applied for the e-visa, it typically takes 3 to 4 working days to receive it. You will need to print out the e-visa and present it upon your arrival in Vietnam. No additional fees are required upon arrival.

The e-visa can be used at all international airports in Vietnam, as well as several land borders and sea ports, providing convenience and flexibility for you entering the country.

Make sure to make no mistakes in filling out the application form, by reading our Vietnam e-visa guide.

3. Visa invitation letter

For countries that are not eligible for the Vietnam visa exemption or e-visa, the alternative option to travel to Vietnam is by obtaining a visa approval letter. The visa approval letter, also known as the “Vietnam Visa approval letter,” is issued by the Vietnam Immigration Department, which falls under the Vietnam Ministry of Public Security. This document is obtained through a local travel agency and serves as an official permission for travelers to board their flight to Vietnam.

Upon arrival at the airport in Vietnam, the visa approval letter allows its holder(s) to have their visa stamped onto their passport. It acts as a formal authorization for entry into the country. The visa approval letter is an essential requirement for travelers who do not have the privilege of visa exemption or the option to obtain an e-visa.

While the Vietnam visa exemption and e-visa options are subject to specific countries, discussions are ongoing to expand the list of countries eligible for e-visa applications. However, until any changes are implemented, the visa approval letter remains the primary way for travelers from non-eligible countries to visit Vietnam.

Vietnam visa at the embassy

In the past, travelers could easily obtain a Vietnam visa directly through any Vietnamese embassy. However, with the introduction of the e-visa system, many embassies have stopped providing visa services. Instead, they often direct applicants to apply for an e-visa through the official Vietnamese Immigration website: https://evisa.gov.vn.

That said, this is not universally the case. Some Vietnamese embassies in certain countries still process visa applications. If you prefer the reassurance of handling your visa through an embassy, it’s worth checking in advance to see if this service is still offered in your location.

Things to keep in mind:

• Applying online for an e-visa is typically easier, faster, and cheaper than applying through an embassy, as embassies may charge additional fees for processing.
• Some embassies no longer assist with visa questions, including how to apply online. If this is the case, you’ll need to handle the process independently or consider a visa agency for support.
• For travelers unable to apply for an e-visa, contacting a travel agency can be an alternative. Agencies can help secure a visa invitation letter, though this option will involve extra costs.

In short, while the e-visa system is now the most common method for obtaining a Vietnam visa, embassies may still be an option in select cases. Always check the availability of visa services at your local Vietnamese embassy before making arrangements.

Staying longer than 90 days in Vietnam

While it is possible to stay longer than 90 days in Vietnam, it can be challenging for tourists. Extending visas beyond the initial 90-day period can be difficult and often involves significant costs. Therefore, if you plan to stay in Vietnam for a longer duration, it is highly recommended to leave the country before the 90-day mark and re-enter with a new e-visa.

Fortunately, leaving Vietnam and returning with a new e-visa is permitted. You have the option to fly to neighboring countries such as Thailand or take a bus to Cambodia or Laos. You can then immediately return to Vietnam, even if it’s just a matter of minutes after leaving the other country. This strategy allows you to reset your stay period and continue your travel in Vietnam.

It’s important to note that this method is commonly employed by travelers who wish to stay longer, as extending visas within Vietnam can be complicated and costly. However, always ensure that you adhere to the immigration regulations and requirements of both Vietnam and the neighboring countries involved in your travel plans.

Other types of Vietnam visas

In addition to the standard tourist visa, Vietnam offers several other types of visas that serve specific purposes.

1. Temporary Residence Card (TRC): The TRC is a type of visa that allows foreign individuals to reside in Vietnam for an extended period, typically beyond 90 days. It is commonly used by those who plan to work, study, or engage in long-term business activities in Vietnam. The TRC is issued by the Immigration Department of Vietnam and requires specific supporting documents and procedures.
2. Certificate of Visa Exemption: This certificate is granted to individuals who are exempted from obtaining a visa to enter Vietnam for a limited duration. It is usually applicable to Vietnamese citizens living abroad, foreigners with Vietnamese heritage, or individuals eligible for visa exemption agreements between Vietnam and their home country. The Certificate of Visa Exemption must be obtained before traveling to Vietnam and requires supporting documents to prove eligibility.
3. Working Visa: A working visa, also known as a business visa, is required for individuals planning to work or engage in business activities in Vietnam for an extended period. It is typically obtained through a sponsoring entity or employer in Vietnam and involves specific procedures and documentation, including work permits and work contracts.

As we are travel agency primarily focuses on assisting with tourists, if you are interested in obtaining any of the other mentioned visas, it is highly recommended to seek assistance from a specialized visa agency. They can provide the necessary guidance and support to ensure a smooth and successful visa application process for these specific visa types.

FAQ about Vietnam visas