Vietnam Visa On Arrival A Comprehensive Guide

Posted in News by William Parker

Vietnam, a Southeast Asian country known for its beautiful landscapes, delicious food, and rich cultural heritage, has been gaining popularity as a tourist destination in recent years. In 2019 alone, the country welcomed over 18 million foreign visitors, a number that is expected to continue to grow in the years to come. One of the reasons for Vietnam’s increasing appeal to travelers is its convenient and affordable visa-on-arrival policy. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to understanding the Vietnam visa requirements, essential documents needed for a visa application, step-by-step instructions for obtaining a visa on arrival, types of visas available, and other important considerations.

Understanding the Vietnam Visa Requirements

Before planning your trip to Vietnam, it is essential to understand the visa requirements to ensure a smooth and hassle-free entry into the country. The good news is that citizens of most countries are eligible for a visa on arrival in Vietnam. This includes the United States, Canada, Australia, and many European and Asian countries. However, there are a few countries whose citizens are exempt from needing a visa for short stays (less than 15 days) in Vietnam, such as Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand.

For longer stays, a visa is required, and the most convenient option is the visa on arrival. This type of visa is valid for 30 days and can be extended for an additional 30 days. It is worth noting that travelers with a visa on arrival cannot enter or exit Vietnam by land; it is only applicable for those arriving by air at one of Vietnam’s international airports.

Essential Documents Needed for a Vietnam Visa Application

To apply for a visa on arrival, you will need to have the following documents:

A Valid Passport: Your passport must have at least 6 months validity remaining from your date of entry into Vietnam. You will also need two blank pages for the visa stamp.

Passport-Sized Photos: You will need two passport-sized photos (4×6 cm) taken within the last six months. The photos must have a white background, with your face and shoulders clearly visible.

Completed Visa Application Form: The visa application form is available at the airport or can be completed online before your trip. It is important to fill out the form accurately and legibly to avoid any delays or complications.

Visa Fee: The visa fee for a single entry visa on arrival is US$25, while a multiple-entry visa is US$50.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Applying for a Vietnam Visa on Arrival

The process of applying for a visa on arrival in Vietnam is quick and easy. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate through the process:

Step 1: Fill Out the Visa Application Form

As mentioned earlier, the visa application form can be obtained at the airport or can be filled out online. If filling out the form online, make sure to print it out and bring it with you to the airport. The form requires basic information such as your name, passport details, and purpose of travel.

Step 2: Submit Your Documents to the Visa Officer

Once you arrive at one of Vietnam’s international airports (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, or Nha Trang), head straight to the visa counter. Submit all required documents, including your passport, photos, and visa fee, to the visa officer.

Step 3: Wait for Your Visa to be Processed

After submitting your documents, you will be given a receipt and asked to wait while the visa officer processes your application. The whole process usually takes around 30 minutes, but it may take longer during peak travel seasons. If everything is in order, the visa officer will affix a visa stamp on your passport, and you’ll be ready to enter Vietnam.

Types of Vietnam Visas Available on Arrival

There are three types of visas available for those applying for a visa on arrival in Vietnam: one-month single entry, one-month multiple entry, and three-month multiple entry. The most commonly used is the one-month single entry visa, as it is often sufficient for most travelers’ needs. However, if you plan on leaving and re-entering Vietnam during your stay, you will need to obtain a multiple-entry visa.

Another important thing to note is that the visa on arrival is only applicable for tourist and business purposes. If you plan on staying in Vietnam for other reasons such as study or employment, you will need to apply for a different type of visa at the Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your home country.

How to Obtain a Vietnam Visa on Arrival at Different Ports of Entry

As mentioned earlier, the visa on arrival is only applicable for those arriving by air at one of Vietnam’s international airports (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, or Nha Trang). If you plan on entering Vietnam by land or sea, you will need to obtain a visa from the Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your home country.

For those arriving by air, there is not much difference between the visa application process at each port of entry. However, it is recommended to arrive at one of the smaller airports (Da Nang or Nha Trang) if you want to avoid long queues and potential delays during peak travel seasons.

Things to Consider Before Applying for a Vietnam Visa on Arrival

While the visa on arrival policy is convenient and affordable for travelers, there are a few important things to consider before applying:

Check for Updates: It is always a good idea to check for any updates or changes to Vietnam’s visa policy before your trip. This is especially important during times of political or social unrest, as the visa policy may change suddenly.

Ensure Your Passport is Valid: As mentioned earlier, your passport must have at least 6 months validity remaining in order to obtain a visa on arrival. Make sure to check the expiration date and renew your passport if needed before your trip.

Have Sufficient Funds: While there is no official requirement for a minimum amount of funds when entering Vietnam, it is recommended to have enough money to cover your stay to avoid any potential issues with immigration officials.

Be Aware of Scams: Unfortunately, scams targeting tourists are not uncommon in Vietnam. Be cautious when dealing with individuals claiming to offer expedited visa services or significantly lower fees. Only deal with authorized agents and make sure to keep all your documents safe during your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions about Vietnam Visa on Arrival

Is it possible to extend my visa on arrival?

Yes, you can extend your visa on arrival for an additional 30 days by applying at the Vietnamese Immigration Department or through a registered agent.

What happens if I overstay my visa?

Overstaying your visa in Vietnam can result in fines, deportation, or even imprisonment depending on the length of time and circumstances. It is best to extend your visa before it expires to avoid any issues.

Can I enter and exit Vietnam multiple times with a visa on arrival?

No, a visa on arrival is only valid for one entry into Vietnam. If you plan on leaving and re-entering the country, you will need to apply for a multiple-entry visa.

Do I need a return ticket to apply for a visa on arrival?

No, a return ticket is not required to apply for a visa on arrival. However, you may be asked for proof of onward travel by the airline before boarding your flight to Vietnam.

Conclusion

The Vietnam visa on arrival policy is a convenient and affordable way to enter the country for most travelers. With a simple application process, quick processing time, and low fees, it has become a popular choice for tourists and business travelers alike. However, it is important to understand the visa requirements and have all necessary documents in order before your trip. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free entry into Vietnam and focus on enjoying all that this beautiful country has to offer.