Can I Get a Visa on Arrival in Vietnam?

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For many travelers, Vietnam Visa on Arrival (VOA) is a popular option for entering the country. However, there are specific rules and requirements that must be followed to obtain a Vietnam visa on arrival successfully.

In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about getting a visa on arrival in Vietnam, including who is eligible, how to apply, fees, processing time, and entry requirements.

What is Vietnam Visa on Arrival (VOA)?

A Vietnam Visa on Arrival is a pre-approved visa that allows travelers to obtain their visa at the airport upon arrival in Vietnam. However, unlike traditional visas, VOA requires pre-approval before departure.

Key Features of Vietnam Visa on Arrival

✅ Available only at international airports (not for land borders or seaports)
✅ Requires a visa approval letter before traveling
✅ Used for tourism, business, and other purposes
✅ Can be issued as a single-entry or multiple-entry visa
✅ Available for stays of 30 days, 90 days, 6 months, or 1 year

💡 Note: Travelers cannot simply arrive in Vietnam and apply for a visa on arrival without prior approval. A visa approval letter is mandatory before flying to Vietnam.

Who Can Get a Visa on Arrival in Vietnam?

Most nationalities, including citizens from the United States, Canada, Australia, the UK, and EU countries, are eligible for Vietnam Visa on Arrival. However, some travelers may qualify for Vietnam e-Visa or visa exemption, depending on their nationality.

To check your eligibility, visit the official website of the Vietnam Immigration Department.

How to Apply for Vietnam Visa on Arrival?

Unlike a traditional visa, you cannot simply arrive at a Vietnamese airport and request a visa on arrival. You must follow a two-step process:

Step 1: Apply for a Visa Approval Letter

Before traveling to Vietnam, you need to obtain a visa approval letter from a Vietnamese travel agency or visa service.

Start your application process today and apply for your visa online quickly and easily.

  1. Find a reliable visa agency online – Choose a licensed agency that provides Vietnam VOA services.
  2. Complete the online application form – Provide personal details, travel information, and passport details.
  3. Pay the service fee – Fees vary depending on visa type and processing speed.
  4. Receive the visa approval letter via email – Processing usually takes 2 to 5 business days.

💡 Important: The visa approval letter is issued by the Vietnam Immigration Department, not the visa agency itself.

Step 2: Obtain Your Visa at the Airport

Upon arrival at a Vietnamese international airport, follow these steps:

  1. Present your visa approval letter (printed copy required).
  2. Submit your passport (valid for at least 6 months).
  3. Provide a completed Vietnam visa application form (Form NA1, available at the airport or online).
  4. Hand over two passport-sized photos (4x6 cm, taken within the last 6 months).
  5. Pay the visa stamping fee (cash only, USD or VND accepted).
  6. Receive your Vietnam visa stamped into your passport.

Vietnam Visa on Arrival Fees

Vietnam VOA fees consist of:

1. Visa Approval Letter Fees

  • Tourist visa: $10 – $25 USD
  • Business visa: $60 – $90 USD
  • Urgent processing: Additional charges apply for same-day or 1-day processing

2. Visa Stamping Fees (Paid at the Airport in Cash)

  • $25 USD – Single-entry visa (valid for 30 or 90 days)
  • $50 USD – Multiple-entry visa (valid for up to 90 days)
  • $95 USD – 6-month multiple-entry visa
  • $135 USD – 1-year multiple-entry visa (for US citizens only)

💡 Tip: Ensure you have the exact amount in USD cash, as credit cards are not accepted at the airport visa counter.

Where Can You Get a Vietnam Visa on Arrival?

The Visa on Arrival option is available only at international airports in Vietnam:

✈ 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)
✈ Cat Bi International Airport (Hai Phong)

🚫 Not available at land border crossings or seaports. If entering Vietnam via land or sea, apply for a Vietnam e-Visa or a visa at an embassy.

Vietnam Visa on Arrival vs. Vietnam e-Visa

If you're considering a Vietnam Visa on Arrival, you may also be eligible for a Vietnam e-Visa.

Start your application process today and apply for your visa online quickly and easily.

FeatureVietnam Visa on ArrivalVietnam e-Visa
Entry TypeSingle or Multiple EntrySingle or Multiple Entry
Validity30 days, 90 days, 6 months, or 1 year30 days or 90 days
Processing Time2–5 business days3–5 business days
Application ProcessApproval letter requiredOnline application
Entry PointsAirports onlyAirports, land borders, and seaports
CostService fee + stamping fee$25 USD (single entry), $50 USD (multiple entry)
Best forLonger stays, business travelersTourists, short trips

💡 If you plan to enter Vietnam by land or sea, Visa on Arrival is NOT an option—you should apply for a Vietnam e-Visa instead.

Can I Extend a Vietnam Visa on Arrival?

Visa extensions are not guaranteed and depend on Vietnamese immigration policies. If you need a longer stay, consider:

✔ Applying for a longer-duration visa (before traveling).
✔ Exiting Vietnam and applying for a new visa from another country.
✔ Consulting a Vietnamese travel agency for extension options.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I get a Vietnam Visa on Arrival without a pre-approval letter?

No, you must have a visa approval letter before boarding your flight. Without it, airlines will deny boarding.

2. How long does it take to get a visa approval letter?

Processing takes 2–5 business days, but express services are available for same-day or next-day approval.

3. Do I need passport photos for Visa on Arrival?

Yes, you need two passport-sized photos (4x6 cm). Bring extra copies just in case.

4. Can I pay the Vietnam Visa on Arrival fee with a credit card?

No, cash payment in USD or VND is required at the airport.

5. Can I get a Visa on Arrival at a land border or seaport?

No, Visa on Arrival is only available at airports. Travelers entering by land or sea should apply for a Vietnam e-Visa.

Start your application process today and apply for your visa online quickly and easily.

Final Thoughts: Should You Get a Vietnam Visa on Arrival?

Vietnam Visa on Arrival is a great option for travelers needing longer stays or multiple entries. However, it requires pre-approval and is only available at airports.

✅ Best for:

✔ Business travelers needing multiple entries
✔ Tourists staying more than 30 days
✔ Travelers who prefer airport visa pickup

❌ Not suitable for:

🚫 Travelers entering Vietnam by land or sea
🚫 Visitors staying only 30 or 90 days (e-Visa is easier)
🚫 Those who want a hassle-free, fully online process

For many travelers, a Vietnam e-Visa is a simpler alternative to Visa on Arrival. However, if you need a longer stay or multiple entries, Visa on Arrival remains a good choice.

Plan ahead, apply for your visa approval letter, and enjoy your trip to Vietnam!

India Tourist Visa UK
Indonesia eVisa from UK
ESTA for the USA from the UK
Vietnam eVisa US Citizen
US Citizen eVisa India
eTourist Visa India from Canada
Egypt Visa for US Citizens Online
ETA Application New Zealand
Apply for ESTA USA from Australia
USA Visa Apply from Germany

Start your journey today by applying for your visa online — quick, easy, and hassle-free! Get approved in no time and focus on what matters most: your travel adventure.

Start your application process today and apply for your visa online quickly and easily.

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