Visa on arrival: Do I need a visa to visit Vietnam?

As you're about to Vietnam, deciding which visa is right for you, figuring out how to apply and knowing what you need can be really confusing. Don't fret because applying for a Vietnamese visa is not only easy but also straightforward.

In this article, you'll find the countries that are eligible to visit Vietnam without visa obligations and how to apply for Vietnam visa online and at the embassy step by step.

List of nationalities that do not require a Vietnam visa

Before you start on your application, make sure you've double-checked whether your home country is eligible for visa-free entry to Vietnam. As of January 2019, the citizens of the following countries do not need a visa to enter Vietnam for a certain amount of time.

E-Visa

Starting from 1st February 2017, the Vietnamese government officially launched the electronic visa plan (e-visa) for tourists of certain countries to Vietnam. E-visa appears to be the best option for majority of tourists traveling to Vietnam for short time with validity of 30 days.

Pros:

• Simple

• 100% online application

• Reasonable transparent pricing US $25 without stamping fee at the airport

• Quick process (approximately 3 business days)

• You needn't to go through any travel agency.

Cons:

• Single entry only

• Non-extendable

• Only 46 countries are eligible

• You can only apply for an e-visa if you're outside of Vietnam

How to obtain an e-visa

• Prepare your digital passport photo (don't wear glasses, scarves and both ears must be shown) and passport data page

• Head to the e-visa application page and fill out online application form

• Pay using the designated payment methods (US$25)

• Secure your registration code, you'll need it to track your application

Other ways to apply for a Vietnam visa

Visa On Arrival

Queue for visa on arrival at Noi Bai airport 

The process to get a visa letter (also known as the approval letter or the pre-authorised visa letter) is fast and easy. Many travel agencies in Vietnam such as myvietnamvisa.com and vietnamvisa.com offer this service. Normally, you just need to fill out a form with information such as full name, passport number, date of birth and email address.

It may take 2-3 working days to get the visa letter. When you land Vietnam, show your visa approval letter, passport and passport photo to the Immigration Officer and then pick up the actual visa stamp at an international airport in Vietnam. Make sure you have dollars with you for stamping fee.

Embassy

You can get the visa processed at any Vietnam Embassy in any country. All you need to do is just find if your country has a Vietnamese Embassy or Consular. This is the safest way to guarantee your visit to Vietnam. The process is actually fast and convenient (around 5 business days). Instead of a visa approval letter, you'll get a visa stamp right on your passport.

Business Visa

Vietnam has been witnessing an increase in the number of foreigners over the world come to work and live. For those interested in traveling Vietnam for business purposes, it is required to obtain a visa enter Vietnam. Luckily, Vietnam policy is not so complicated when it comes to business visa process for foreigner workers. Depending on the employer, work permit is required. Many visa agencies online can help you to get a business visa. To our own experience, travel agency in Phnom Penh, Cambodia can arrange this for you as well. The validity ranges from six months up to one year.

Last updated: 21-03-2019