Vietnam Visa Approval Letter: All You Need to Know
The Vietnam visa approval letter is likely the best option if you plan to visit Vietnam and avoid the lengthy procedures at embassies. This document lets travelers get their visa stamped when they land at a Vietnamese international airport. But what exactly is this letter? Who needs it? How can you get one quickly and legally?
In this guide, Seniworld explains everything you need to know — from definitions to exemptions — so you can plan your trip smoothly and fully comply with Vietnam’s immigration regulations.
What is a Vietnam visa approval letter?
The Vietnam visa approval letter is an official pre-approval issued by the Vietnam Immigration Department. It grants permission for a foreign traveler to receive a visa upon arrival at a Vietnamese international airport. This letter is not a visa in itself. Instead, it acts as a pre-approved authorization — confirming that the applicant has been cleared by Vietnamese immigration and is eligible to obtain a visa stamp at the airport.
The Vietnam visa approval letter is commonly used in the Vietnam visa on arrival process. This method suits travelers flying into Vietnam who want to avoid visiting an embassy. It is also referred to as a pre approval letter for Vietnam visa, or approval letter from Vietnam Immigration.
Sample of Vietnam visa approval letter
Below is a sample of the official visa approval letter from the Vietnam Immigration Department:
- Approval Number: Found at the top left, used to track and verify the issuance.
- Authorized Agency Name: The company or travel agent who submitted the visa request.
- Applicant Information: Include your full name (as shown in passport), date of birth, nationality, and valid passport number.
- Validity Period: Exact entry and exit dates and visa type (single or multiple entry).
- Visa Pickup Instruction: A note confirming the visa will be stamped at an international airport upon arrival.Như
- Official Stamp & Signature: A red circular seal and signature from the Vietnam Immigration Department.
Vietnam visa approval letter types
Depending on the traveler’s situation, Vietnam visa approval letters are categorized by the purpose of the visit and place of visa stamping. This classification helps determine the correct type of letter to request from the Vietnam Immigration Department or a licensed agency.
By Purpose of Visit
Visa approval letters are typically issued for the following common visa types:
Tourist Visa (DL)
Issued to foreigners entering Vietnam for tourism, leisure, or visiting friends. This is the most popular category for travelers using visa on arrival services. Most applicants receive their approval letters via a travel agency.
Business Visa (DN1, DN2)
Granted to foreign nationals coming to Vietnam for business meetings, commercial activities, or working with Vietnamese enterprises. A sponsoring company in Vietnam is usually required to apply for the visa approval letter.
- DN1: For those working with Vietnamese companies or organizations.
- DN2: For those offering services under international treaties or doing business with Vietnamese partners.
Family Visit Visa (TT, VR)
Used by individuals visiting their spouse, children, or other family members residing in Vietnam. A relative in Vietnam must act as the sponsor and submit the visa request.
Other visa types, such as Work Visa (LD1, LD2), Student Visa (DH), or Investor Visa (DT1–DT4), are not usually issued through visa approval letters and follow a different application process.
By Place of Getting Visa Stamped
After receiving the visa approval letter, travelers can choose from various locations to get their visa stamped:
At Vietnam International Airports (Visa on Arrival)
Travelers present their approval letter upon landing at a designated international airport to receive a visa stamp. Applicable airports include:
- Nội Bài International Airport (Hanoi)
- Tân Sơn Nhất International Airport (Ho Chi Minh City)
- Đà Nẵng International Airport
This is the most common method for tourists and short-term business travelers.
At Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate Abroad
Sometimes, the approval letter is sent directly to a Vietnamese embassy or consulate in the traveler’s country. The applicant then visits the consulate to receive the visa stamp before traveling to Vietnam. This is commonly used for business and family visit purposes.
Vietnam visa approval letter cost
When you apply for a Vietnam visa approval letter, you should plan for two primary costs:
- Service fee: This fee is paid to the agency that processes your approval letter.
- Visa stamping fee: This is the amount you pay in cash at the airport when your visa is issued.
Below is a full breakdown of estimated costs by visa type:
Visa Type | Processing Time | Service Fee | Stamping Fee | Total Estimated Cost |
Tourist – 1-month single entry | 2–3 working days | $12–$18 | $25 | $37–$43 |
Tourist – 1 month multiple entry | 2–3 working days | $15–$20 | $50 | $65–$70 |
Tourist – 3-month single entry | 3–5 working days | $20–$28 | $25 | $45–$53 |
Tourist – 3-month multiple-entry | 3–5 working days | $25–$40 | $50 | $75–$90 |
Business – 1–3 month single entry | 3–5 working days | $85–$110 | $25 | $110–$135 |
Business – 1–3 month multiple entry | 3–5 working days | $115–$135 | $50 | $165–$185 |
Urgent or same-day processing may incur an extra fee, usually +$10 to $30, depending on the agency.
Notes:
- Service fees vary slightly between visa agents and based on urgency.
- The Vietnamese government fixes stamping fees.
- Airport payments must be made in cash (USD or VND).
- The e-visa is a different process (applied online) and costs $25; no approval letter is required.
Vietnam visa approval letter required documents
To get your Vietnam visa approval letter, you'll need to prepare a few documents based on the purpose of your trip. Having everything in order will make the process smoother and help you get approval faster from the Vietnam Immigration Department.
Required Documents for All Applicants
Regardless of the visa type, the following documents are commonly required:
- Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months and should have two empty pages available.
- Completed Visa Application Form (Form NA2): This form should be filled out completely with your personal and travel details.
- Passport-Sized Photos: Two recent 4x6 cm photos taken against a white background, without glasses.
- Flight Itinerary: Details of your planned entry and exit dates, including flight numbers.
Additional Requirements by Visa Type
Tourist Visa (DL)
- Travel Itinerary: Provide a detailed plan outlining your activities and destinations in Vietnam.
- Hotel Reservations: Submit proof of accommodation bookings for your entire stay.
- Sponsorship Letter: If applicable, a letter from a licensed Vietnamese travel agency sponsoring your trip.
Business Visa (DN1, DN2)
- Invitation Letter: An official letter from the Vietnamese company sponsoring your visit, specifying the purpose and duration of your stay.
- Company Registration Document: A certified copy of the Vietnamese company’s business registration, proving its legal standing.
- Introduction Letter (Form NA16): A document introducing the company’s authorized representative, including their signature and seal.
Family Visit Visa (TT, VR)
- Proof of Relationship: Official documents such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, or other legal papers confirming the familial relationship.
- Sponsor’s Residence Status: Submit a copy of the Vietnamese residence permit or equivalent proof from the family member residing in Vietnam.
- Invitation Letter: A letter from your Vietnamese relative formally inviting you to visit.
It’s best to prepare your documents in English or Vietnamese and ensure the passport scan is clear; blurry photos often lead to delays. Also, depending on your case, the immigration office might ask for more papers, so it doesn’t hurt to check with your agent beforehand.
Vietnam visa approval letter exemption
Not all travelers need a Vietnam visa approval letter to enter the country. Below are common scenarios where visitors can enter without needing one:
Visa Exemption for Citizens of Certain Countries
As of 2025, citizens from 29 countries can enter Vietnam for a short stay without needing a visa or approval letter. The length of stay depends on your country of origin.
Country/Region | Duration of Stay Without Visa |
Chile, Panama | Up to 90 days |
ASEAN countries (Thailand, Malaysia, etc.) | Up to 30 days |
Japan, South Korea, Germany, France, UK, Italy, Spain, Russia | Up to 45 days |
Belarus, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland | Up to 45 days |
To be eligible, your passport must be valid for at least six months, and you must leave Vietnam before the visa-free period ends. In these cases, no visa approval letter is required.
Note: Re-entry under visa exemption usually requires at least 30 days between visits unless you apply for a visa.
5-Year Visa Exemption Certificate (for overseas Vietnamese and their family)
Vietnam also offers a 5-year visa exemption certificate for:
- Vietnamese nationals living abroad
- Spouses and children of Vietnamese citizens.
Holders of this certificate can enter Vietnam multiple times without needing a visa or approval letter as long as each stay does not exceed 180 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I enter Vietnam without a visa approval letter?
Yes, but only if you’re from a visa-exempt country or applying for an e-visa online. An approval letter is required for most other nationalities to use a visa on arrival.
How long does it take to get a visa approval letter?
Typically, processing takes 2–3 business days. If you're in a rush, urgent service is available — some agencies can process it in just 4–8 hours.
Can I bring a printed copy of the approval letter to the airport?
Absolutely. You must present a physical printout of your approval letter, passport-sized photos, and the stamping fee to receive your visa on arrival.
Can I use the approval letter to enter Vietnam by land or sea?
No. Visa approval letters are only valid for entry via air at Vietnam’s international airports like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang.
Conclusion
The Vietnam visa approval letter is required for travelers flying into Vietnam who plan to obtain a visa on arrival. The process isn’t complicated, but getting the details right matters. Use a trusted service, prepare your documents properly, and check the latest entry rules before your trip.
Need quick and dependable assistance with your Vietnam visa? Seniworld is ready to help with arranging visa approval letters, urgent processing, and group entries. Contact us, and we’ll handle the paperwork so you can focus on enjoying your trip!