Everything You Need to Know About Vietnam Visa on Arrival (VOA VIETNAM)

What is a Vietnam Visa on Arrival (VOA)?

A Vietnam Visa on Arrival (VOA) is a visa that is granted to visitors upon their arrival in Vietnam. It is a convenient and efficient way to obtain a visa, especially for those who are planning a last-minute trip.

Who is eligible for a Vietnam VOA?

Citizens of most countries are eligible for a Vietnam VOA. However, there are a few exceptions, such as citizens of Nigeria, Somalia, and North Korea. It is important to check the Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your home country to confirm your eligibility.

How to apply for a Vietnam VOA?

To apply for a Vietnam Visa on Arrival (VOA), you must follow these steps:

1. Complete an online application for an Approval Letter. This can be done through a variety of websites, including the official Vietnam Immigration Department website. You will need to provide your passport information, arrival date, and port of entry.
2. Pay the service fee. This fee varies depending on the website you use, but it is typically around US$25-30.
3. Wait for the Approval Letter to be processed. This usually takes 1-3 business days.
4. Once you receive the Approval Letter, print it out and bring it with you to Vietnam. You will also need to bring two passport-sized photos, a valid passport, and the stamping fee in cash.
5. Upon arrival in Vietnam, proceed to the Visa on Arrival counter at the airport. Present your Approval Letter, passport, photos, and stamping fee to the immigration officer.
6. The immigration officer will process your visa and stamp your passport. Once your visa has been stamped, you will be free to enter Vietnam.

Important notes:

• Visa on Arrival is only available for air travelers. Travelers arriving by land or cruise must obtain a full visa from a Vietnamese embassy or consulate before departure.
• Visa on Arrival must be picked up at Vietnam airports after landing.
• The stamping fee for a Vietnam VOA is US$25.
• Your passport must be valid for at least six months following your expected departure date from Vietnam.
• You must have two passport-sized photos that meet the following requirements:
  • Size: 4x6cm (1.5×2.5 inches)
  • Color: Passport style
  • Background: White or light colored
  • Recent: Taken within the past six months
  • Headshot: Full face and shoulders are visible
  • Headwear: Not allowed, unless worn for religious reasons

Here is a more detailed explanation of each step:

Step 1: Complete an online application for an Approval Letter

When completing the online application, be sure to enter your passport information and travel dates accurately. You will also need to choose a port of entry. Visa on Arrival is available at all major international airports in Vietnam, as well as at some land border crossings.

Step 2: Pay the service fee

The service fee for a Vietnam VOA varies depending on the website you use. However, it is typically around US$25-30. You can pay the service fee using a variety of methods, including credit card, debit card, or PayPal.

Step 3: Wait for the Approval Letter to be processed

Once you have submitted your application and paid the service fee, you will receive an email confirmation. The Approval Letter will typically be processed within 1-3 business days. Once your Approval Letter has been processed, you will receive an email with a link to download it.

Step 4: Print out the Approval Letter and bring it with you to Vietnam

Be sure to print out your Approval Letter and bring it with you to Vietnam. You will need to show it to the immigration officer at the Visa on Arrival counter.

Step 5: Proceed to the Visa on Arrival counter at the airport

Upon arrival in Vietnam, proceed to the Visa on Arrival counter at the airport. This counter is typically located in the arrivals hall.

Step 6: Present your Approval Letter, passport, photos, and stamping fee to the immigration officer

The immigration officer will process your visa and stamp your passport. Once your visa has been stamped, you will be free to enter Vietnam.

Tips for applying for a Vietnam VOA

• Apply for your Approval Letter at least one week before your departure date. This will give you enough time to process your application and receive your Approval Letter.
• Be sure to enter your passport information and travel dates accurately when completing the online application.
• Print out your Approval Letter and bring it with you to Vietnam.
• Have two passport-sized photos that meet the requirements listed above.
• Pay the stamping fee in cash.

Where can I get a Vietnam Visa on Arrival?

VOAs are only issued upon arrival at one of Vietnam’s international airports:

• Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi)
• Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Ho Chi Minh City)
• Danang International Airport (Da Nang)
• Cam Ranh International Airport (Nha Trang)

What happens when I arrive in Vietnam?

Once you arrive at the airport, you will need to proceed to the Visa on Arrival counter. There, you will present your visa approval letter, passport, photo, and stamping fee. The immigration officer will then stamp your passport with your visa.

Vietnam Visa on Arrival (VOA) Q&As

1. What is the processing time for a Vietnam VOA?

The processing time for a Vietnam VOA is typically 2-3 business days for online applications and 1-2 hours for applications made at the airport.

2. How long is a Vietnam VOA valid for?

A Vietnam VOA is valid for 30 days from the date of issue. You can also apply for a multiple-entry VOA, which is valid for 3 months or 6 months.

3. What are the fees for a Vietnam VOA?

The fees for a Vietnam VOA are as follows:

• Single-entry VOA: USD 25
• Multiple-entry VOA: USD 50

4. Can I extend my Vietnam VOA?

Yes, you can extend your Vietnam VOA for an additional 30 days. You must apply for an extension at the Immigration Department in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. The fee for an extension is USD 10.

5. What are some tips for applying for a Vietnam VOA?

Here are some tips for applying for a Vietnam VOA:

• Apply for your VOA in advance. This will give you more time to resolve any issues if there are any problems with your application.
• Make sure you have all of the required documents. This will help to ensure that your application is processed quickly and smoothly.
• Be prepared to pay the stamping fee in cash. You will need to pay the stamping fee in cash when you pick up your VOA at the airport.
• Have your passport and VOA approval letter ready when you go through immigration. This will help to speed up the process.