Can you still get visa on arrival in Vietnam?

Vietnam Visa on Arrival: A Post-Pandemic Guide

Vietnam, with its vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and delicious cuisine, remains a popular destination for travelers worldwide. The once-convenient Visa on Arrival (VOA) option has, however, undergone some changes following the COVID-19 pandemic. So, can you still obtain a visa on arrival in Vietnam? The answer is yes, but with crucial caveats.

While the VOA program is technically still operational, its accessibility is currently restricted to citizens of specific countries. This list is not exhaustive and can be subject to change, so confirming the most up-to-date information with the Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate in your country is highly recommended before making travel plans.

Currently, citizens of the following countries are often listed as eligible for VOA:

Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belarus, Belgium, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cuba, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, India, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Malta, Mexico, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Norway, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, San Marino, Serbia, Seychelles, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States, Uruguay, Uzbekistan, and Vatican City.

Important Considerations and Steps:

Even if you are a citizen of one of these countries, obtaining a VOA is not as straightforward as it once was.

• Pre-Approval Letter: The most important step is securing a pre-approval letter from the Vietnam Immigration Department before you travel. This letter is essentially a permission slip allowing you to obtain your visa upon arrival at a Vietnamese international airport. You cannot obtain a VOA without this pre-arranged letter. Applying for the pre-approval letter generally involves using a reputable online visa agency or contacting a Vietnamese embassy directly.

• Agency Selection: Choose a visa agency carefully, researching their reliability and fees. Be wary of suspiciously low prices, as these could indicate fraudulent services.

• Application Process: The application process usually requires providing passport details, travel dates, and port of entry. Ensure all information provided is accurate to avoid potential complications.

• Fees: There are two fees associated with VOA: the service fee paid to the agency for the pre-approval letter and the stamping fee paid at the airport upon arrival to receive the actual visa.

• Documents Required at Arrival: Be prepared to present your pre-approval letter, passport (with at least six months validity), two passport-sized photos, and the stamping fee in US dollars or Vietnamese Dong at the Visa on Arrival counter.

• Alternative: E-Visa: Consider applying for an e-visa, if eligible. An e-visa allows you to skip the VOA process altogether and enter the country directly after showing your printed e-visa and passport.

• Stay Updated: Visa policies are dynamic. Always check the latest travel advisories and guidelines issued by the Vietnamese government and your own countrys foreign affairs department before your trip.

While the VOA option remains a possibility for certain nationalities, the process requires careful planning and adherence to the established procedures. Failing to do so could result in denied entry. By understanding the current requirements and taking the necessary steps, you can increase your chances of a smooth and hassle-free entry into beautiful Vietnam.