Does Vietnam Have Visa on Arrival?

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If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam and are wondering, Does Vietnam have Visa on Arrival?, you’ve come to the right place. The Visa on Arrival (VOA) option allows travelers to obtain their visa when they land in Vietnam, but there are important details that Vietnam Visa on Arrival entails, especially for US citizens and other international travelers.

This guide explains everything you need to know about Visa on Arrival for Vietnam, including how it works, eligibility requirements, the application process, and important tips for a smooth arrival in the country.

What is Vietnam Visa on Arrival?

Vietnam Visa on Arrival (VOA) allows travelers to receive their visa after arriving at one of Vietnam's international airports. This type of visa is issued to foreign nationals who meet certain conditions and apply online for an approval letter before traveling.

It’s a popular option for tourists, business travelers, and others who want the convenience of applying for a visa online and obtaining the visa upon arrival at the airport.

How Does Vietnam Visa on Arrival Work?

1. Apply for an Approval Letter

Before you can use the Visa on Arrival (VOA), you must first apply for an approval letter through a licensed travel agency or visa service. This letter grants you permission to board a flight to Vietnam and obtain your visa upon arrival at the airport.

2. Arrive in Vietnam

Once you land at one of Vietnam’s international airports (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or Da Nang), proceed to the Visa on Arrival counter to receive your visa stamp in your passport. Be sure to have the following documents ready:

  • Your approval letter (received via email)
  • Valid passport (at least 6 months validity)
  • Visa stamping fee (cash in USD or Vietnamese Dong)
  • Completed entry form (usually provided at the airport)

3. Pay the Stamping Fee

After you present your approval letter and documents, you’ll need to pay a stamping fee to receive your visa. The fee typically ranges from $25 to $135, depending on the type of visa you requested (single-entry or multiple-entry, duration of stay).

Eligibility for Vietnam Visa on Arrival

Vietnam Visa on Arrival is available to citizens of many countries, including US citizens, but it comes with specific conditions:

1. Where to Apply for Vietnam Visa on Arrival?

  • Available only at Vietnam’s international airports: The VOA is not available at land borders or seaports. If you're entering Vietnam by land or sea, you’ll need to apply for a visa through a Vietnamese embassy or consulate.
  • Airports that issue VOA:
    • Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Ho Chi Minh City)
    • Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi)
    • Da Nang International Airport (Da Nang)

2. What Visa Types Can Be Issued on Arrival?

  • Tourist Visa (single-entry, multiple-entry)
  • Business Visa (single-entry, multiple-entry)
  • Transit Visa (for short layovers)

3. Length of Stay

The Vietnam Visa on Arrival typically allows for stays ranging from 30 days to 90 days, depending on the type of visa you apply for. If you need a longer stay, a Vietnam embassy visa might be a better option.

How to Apply for Vietnam Visa on Arrival?

Step 1: Apply for an Approval Letter

To apply for the Visa on Arrival, follow these steps:

  • Find a reputable visa agency or use an online platform to apply for your approval letter.
  • Fill out the Vietnam VOA application form with your details (name, nationality, travel dates, etc.).
  • Submit a scanned copy of your passport (with at least 6 months of validity).
  • Pay the approval letter processing fee (typically between $10–$25 USD depending on the agency).

Step 2: Wait for the Approval Letter

After submitting your application and payment, the visa agency will process your request. The processing time for the approval letter is usually 2–5 business days, but urgent processing is available for an additional fee.

Step 3: Receive Your Approval Letter

Once your application is approved, you will receive the approval letter via email. Print this letter out and bring it with you when you travel.

Step 4: Pay the Stamping Fee at the Airport

Upon arrival at a Vietnamese international airport, go to the Visa on Arrival counter. You’ll need to submit your approval letter, passport, a completed visa application form (available at the airport), and cash for the stamping fee. The fee varies:

  • Single-entry visa: $25
  • Multiple-entry visa: $50–$135, depending on your visa type and duration of stay.

Once the payment is processed, you will receive your visa stamped in your passport.

Advantages of Vietnam Visa on Arrival

1. Easy Application Process

The Visa on Arrival (VOA) process is relatively simple, requiring just an online application for an approval letter. This makes it convenient for travelers who may not have time to go to a consulate or embassy before their trip.

2. Flexible Visa Duration

Vietnam Visa on Arrival offers flexible options for both short-term tourists and business travelers. You can apply for single-entry or multiple-entry visas, with stay periods of 30 days, 60 days, or 90 days.

3. No Need for Pre-Departure Visa

Unlike other visa types that require you to visit a consulate or embassy before your trip, Visa on Arrival allows you to apply and get approval online, only needing to process your visa upon arrival.

Disadvantages of Vietnam Visa on Arrival

1. Available Only at Airports

As mentioned earlier, the Visa on Arrival option is only available at Vietnam’s international airports. If you’re entering by land or sea, you will need to go through a consulate or embassy instead.

2. Extra Time at the Airport

Although the process is relatively straightforward, you may need to wait in line at the Visa on Arrival counter when you arrive at the airport. If you’re traveling during peak hours, this could take longer.

3. Cash Required for Stamping Fee

You must pay the stamping fee in cash, either in USD or Vietnamese Dong. Make sure to have the correct amount, as credit cards are not accepted.

Tips for a Smooth Vietnam Visa on Arrival Process

1. Apply for Approval Letter in Advance

To avoid delays, apply for your approval letter well in advance of your trip. This will give you peace of mind knowing everything is in order before your arrival.

2. Double-Check Your Travel Dates

Ensure that the dates on your approval letter match your actual travel dates. This ensures you don’t encounter any issues at the airport.

3. Have Cash on Hand

Remember to bring cash for the stamping fee in USD or Vietnamese Dong. ATMs may not be easily accessible when you arrive.

4. Be Prepared for the Wait

Arriving at the airport and going through the Visa on Arrival process may take extra time, especially if there are many travelers. Consider arriving early to avoid stress and long lines.

FAQs: Does Vietnam Have Visa on Arrival?

1. Can I get a Vietnam Visa on Arrival for all types of visas?

✔ **Yes, you can get a Vietnam visa on arrival for tourist, business, and transit visas as long as you have an approval letter from a licensed travel agency.

2. Can I get a Vietnam Visa on Arrival for a long-term stay?

✔ **Yes, US citizens can get a Vietnam Visa on Arrival for stays up to 90 days. For longer stays (6 months or 1 year), it’s best to apply for a visa at a Vietnamese embassy.

3. Is Vietnam Visa on Arrival available for land or sea entry?

❌ No, Visa on Arrival is only available at Vietnam’s international airports. For entry by land or sea, you need to get a visa through a consulate or embassy.

Conclusion: Does Vietnam Have Visa on Arrival?

Yes, Vietnam has Visa on Arrival for travelers arriving by air. However, the Visa on Arrival process requires you to apply for an approval letter before you travel, and you’ll need to pay a stamping fee at the airport. If you’re planning to enter Vietnam by land or sea, you’ll need to use an alternative visa method.

Make sure to follow the necessary steps to ensure a smooth and hassle-free arrival in Vietnam and enjoy your trip!

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