Comprehensive Guide to Vietnam Visa On Arrival
The Vietnam Visa on Arrival is commonly availed by the majority of our customers due to the ease and expedient processing. The article below provides a comprehensive overview of the Vietnam Visa On Arrival, including definition, topics of relevance, processing time, fees, other procedures, and a list of airports applying for the visa on arrival. Follow now for a smooth entry to this beautiful Southeast Asia country.
What is a Vietnam Visa On Arrival?
A Vietnam Visa on Arrival (VOA) is a legitimate entry permit to be picked up by foreign nationals when they arrive at designated Vietnamese airports. It is an appropriate choice for applicants who are not in a position to make an application for a regular visa or are disadvantaged by the geographical distance from the Vietnamese Embassy/Consulate in the host country.
Who is Eligible for a Visa On Arrival?
Vietnam Visa On Arrival is available for citizens from most nations in the world, but the conditions and qualifications vary. Generally, the following visitors are eligible to apply for a Vietnam VOA:
- Foreigners departing from countries that do not have a Vietnamese visa-issuing authority (Vietnamese Embassy/Consulate).
- Foreigners must pass through many different countries before coming to Vietnam.
- Foreign citizens coming to Vietnam for the purpose of tourism under a program organized by a qualified international travel company in Vietnam.
- Crew members are foreign citizens on ships anchored at Vietnamese seaports who need to go through another border gate.
- Foreign travellers come to Vietnam to attend the funeral of a relative or to visit a seriously ill relative.
- Foreign citizens coming to Vietnam to participate in emergency incidents, rescue, disaster prevention, disease prevention, natural disasters, or for other special reasons at the request of a competent Vietnamese authority.
Some of the countries whose citizens are eligible for the Vietnam Visa On Arrival include:
- Most European countries (UK, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, etc.)
- North American countries (USA, Canada)
- Australia and New Zealand
- Many Asian countries (Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, etc.)
- Several South American countries
However, eligibility is changeable and could have limitations based on diplomatic ties and immigration laws. It is necessary to verify your country's present eligibility on official Vietnamese government websites or accredited visa agencies.
Vietnam Visa On Arrival Processing Time and Fee
Being aware of the price of a Vietnam visa on arrival and the processing time range is essential while planning your trip.
Processing times
- Standard processing: 2-3 business days
- Urgent processing: 4-8 working hours
- Super urgent processing: 2-4 working hours (for emergency travel)
Fee structure
The VOA involves two separate fees:
Pre-approval letter fee (paid online to the visa agency):
- Standard processing: $18-25 USD
- Urgent processing: $35-50 USD
- Super urgent processing: $50-70 USD
Stamping fee (paid in cash (USD or VND) when arriving at Vietnamese airports):
- Single-entry visa (1 month): $25 USD
- Single-entry visa (3 months): $25 USD
- Multiple-entry visa (1 month): $50 USD
- Multiple-entry visa (3 months): $50 USD
The pre-approval letter fee may vary depending on the service provider and the number of applicants. Group applications often qualify for discounted rates. The stamping fee, however, is fixed and set by the Vietnamese government.
Also, all visa on arrival costs are non-refundable, even in case your visa application is rejected or you change your travel plans.
How To Apply for a Vietnam Visa On Arrival?
The Vietnam Visa On Arrival application process entails multiple steps prior to your visit and upon arrival. Adhering to these processes diligently will make the process easy.
Visa On Arrival Preparation
Before traveling to Vietnam, complete these essential preparation steps:
Check eligibility: Confirm that your nationality qualifies for the Vietnam VOA
Select a legitimate agency: Pick agencies that are accredited by the Vietnamese Immigration Department. Although there's no official government website for VOA applications, some legitimate agencies deal directly with immigration officials.
Prepare required documents:
- Valid passport with at least 6 months validity, empty pages, and no significant damage that might raise questions at immigration
- Completed visa application form
- Recent passport-sized photos: Prepare 2-4 photos (4x6 cm) with a white background. The photos should:
- Be recent (taken within the last 6 months)
- Show your full face without headwear (unless worn for religious reasons)
- Have no glasses or other items that obscure facial features
- Be printed on photo-quality paper
- Flight itinerary to Vietnam: Detailed information about your:
- Flight to Vietnam (airline, flight number, arrival date and time)
- Departure flight from Vietnam
- Internal travel plans within Vietnam (if available)
- Accommodation details: Information about where you will be staying in Vietnam, including:
- Hotel reservations (name, address, contact information)
- Private accommodation details if staying with friends or family
- General travel route if you will be moving between multiple locations
- Proof of sufficient funds for your stay
Timing your application: Apply at least 5-7 days before your planned date of traveling for normal processing
You will be needed to visit the Vietnam visa on arrival at the official website or a reputable agent in order to begin the online application. Most tourists make use of government-approved visa agencies that have secure application sites and client care support.
Application Process
The actual application process consists of these steps:
Online application submission:
- Complete the Vietnam visa on arrival application form with personal details
- Select visa type (single/multiple entry) and duration
- Choose the processing time option
- Pay the fee using a secure payment method
The Vietnam visa on arrival application form typically requires the following information:
- Full name as it appears in your passport
- Date of birth
- Passport number and validity dates
- Nationality
- Purpose of visit
- Intended entry and exit dates
- Address in Vietnam
- Contact information
It's crucial to ensure all information on the application form matches exactly with your passport details to avoid complications upon arrival.
Receive pre-approval letter:
- After processing, you will receive the approval letter via email
- Check the letter carefully for any errors in your personal information
- Print multiple copies of the letter (at least 2-3 copies)
Upon arrival at the Vietnamese airport:
- Locate the "Landing Visa" or "Visa On Arrival" counter before proceeding to immigration
- Submit your pre-approval letter, passport, completed entry/exit form, and passport photos
- Pay the stamping fee in USD cash
- Wait for visa processing (typically 15-30 minutes during normal periods, longer during peak travel seasons)
- Receive your passport with a visa stamp
- Proceed to the regular immigration checkpoint for entry.
List of Applicable Airports for Vietnam Visa On Arrival
The Vietnam VOA is only available at international airports in Vietnam. You cannot use this visa type when entering through land borders or seaports. The following airports currently accept Visa On Arrival:
- Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi)
- Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Ho Chi Minh City)
- Da Nang International Airport (Da Nang)
- Cam Ranh International Airport (Nha Trang)
- Phu Quoc International Airport (Phu Quoc Island)
- Cat Bi International Airport (Hai Phong)
- Can Tho International Airport (Can Tho)
When booking flights to Vietnam, ensure you're arriving at one of these airports if planning to use the VOA service. If your travel plans include entering Vietnam through land checkpoints or seaports, you will need to apply for a traditional visa through a Vietnamese embassy or consulate instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I extend my Vietnam Visa On Arrival?
Yes, it is possible to extend your visa if you happen to be within Vietnam. Either local immigration centers or approved agencies can facilitate extension. Costs vary from $30-80 USD depending on the type of visa and the validity of visa. It generally takes 5-7 working days.
What happens if I change my arrival airport in Vietnam?
If you need to change your arrival airport after receiving your pre-approval letter, you can still use the same letter as long as your new arrival point is one of the international airports that accept VOA.
Is a Vietnam Visa On Arrival different from an eVisa?
Yes. In essence, the Vietnam E-visa is completely processed online before traveling and allows entry through selected airports, land borders, and seaports. Vietnam visa on arrival requires physical issuance of a visa when arrival and only through entry at the airport.
Can I get a VOA for business purposes?
Yes, business travelers can use the VOA system, but you may need additional documentation, like invitation letters from Vietnamese business partners.
What happens if I lose my approval letter?
The approval letter is a mandatory document for receiving a visa at the border gate, so visitors should print multiple copies and keep them safe. In case of loss, you should immediately contact the visa agent or the competent authority in Vietnam for instructions on how to proceed.
Conclusion
The Vietnam Visa On Arrival system offers a convenient option for eligible travelers entering Vietnam through international airports. By understanding the eligibility criteria, application process, and required documentation, you can ensure a smooth entry into this culturally rich and diverse country. In particular, if you are looking for a professional Vietnam visa service with fast processing time (including urgent visas) and a 100% success rate, visit Seniworld. Our supporting team will accompany you from A to Z, helping you focus on enjoying your trip without worrying about the procedures.
