Can you get a visa upon arrival in Vietnam?

Visa on Arrival in Vietnam: A Convenient Option for Many

Planning a trip to the vibrant and culturally rich nation of Vietnam? One of the first things to consider is visa requirements. Fortunately, for citizens of a significant number of countries, obtaining a visa for Vietnam is a relatively straightforward process thanks to the Visa on Arrival (VOA) program.

Yes, you can get a visa upon arrival in Vietnam, making it a convenient option for travelers who prefer to avoid pre-trip embassy visits or lengthy application processes. Currently, the VOA program is open to citizens of approximately 80 countries, offering them the possibility of staying in Vietnam for up to 30 days for tourism or business purposes.

How Does Visa on Arrival Work?

While the term Visa on Arrival might suggest simply showing up at the airport and getting your visa stamped, theres a crucial pre-approval step. To be eligible for VOA, you must first obtain a visa approval letter. This letter is issued by the Vietnamese Immigration Department and acts as a pre-authorization for your visa.

The process typically involves applying online through a reputable visa agency. These agencies act as intermediaries, submitting your application to the Immigration Department on your behalf. You will need to provide essential information, including:

• A scanned copy of your passport (valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay).
• Your planned entry and exit dates.
• The purpose of your visit (tourism or business).
• Information about your intended port of entry (e.g., Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi).

The On-Arrival Process

Once your application is approved, you will receive the visa approval letter via email. Print out multiple copies of this letter, as you will need to present it upon arrival.

When you arrive at a Vietnamese international airport or designated land border crossing, proceed to the Visa on Arrival counter. Here, you will need to present the following:

• Your passport (valid for at least six months).
• Your visa approval letter.
• A completed visa application form (available at the VOA counter).
• One or two passport-sized photos.
• The visa stamping fee (currently US$25 for a single-entry visa, payable in US dollars or Vietnamese Dong).

After your documents are reviewed and the fee is paid, your visa will be stamped into your passport, and youll be officially granted entry into Vietnam.

Important Considerations:

• Reliable Agency: Choose a reputable and established visa agency for your online application. Read reviews and compare prices before making a decision.
• Timeframe: Allow sufficient time for the visa approval letter to be processed. Processing times can vary depending on the agency and the workload of the Immigration Department. Its generally recommended to apply at least two weeks before your intended travel date, and even earlier during peak season.
• Stamping Fee: Ensure you have the exact amount in US dollars or Vietnamese Dong for the stamping fee. While credit cards may be accepted in some cases, its best to be prepared with cash.
• Land Borders: The VOA option is also available at certain land border crossings, but its crucial to verify the specific crossings that accept VOA before you travel.
• Citizenship Eligibility: While approximately 80 countries are eligible, its essential to confirm that your citizenship is included in the VOA program by checking the latest information on the Vietnamese Immigration Departments website or through your chosen visa agency.

In conclusion, obtaining a Visa on Arrival in Vietnam is a practical and often preferred method for many travelers. By understanding the process and ensuring you meet all the requirements, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free entry into this captivating Southeast Asian destination.