A comprehensive guide on applying for and using your Vietnam e-Visa
Vietnam, a picturesque nation with a fascinating history and vibrant culture, attracts numerous visitors due to its allure. However, if you plan on visiting Vietnam, obtaining a visa is necessary. In the past, obtaining a Vietnamese visa involved some inconvenience as it required a personal visit to the Vietnamese embassy or consulate in one’s home country. Fortunately, there is now a convenient alternative known as the Vietnam e-Visa. This electronic visa can be applied for and received online, making it an excellent choice for those seeking to avoid the embassy or consulate visitation process.
What is Vietnam e-Visa?
The Vietnam e-Visa, also known as the Vietnam electronic visa, is a digital authorization letter issued by the Immigration Department of Vietnam. It allows visitors from eligible countries to enter Vietnam via 28 designated international border gates without requiring a physical visa.
In February 2017, the Vietnam e-Visa system was introduced with the aim of enhancing tourism and simplifying travel to Vietnam. The approved e-Visa allows visitors to enter and leave Vietnam multiple times during its validity period.
Benefits of Vietnam e-Visa
Compared to applying for a regular visa, the Vietnam e-Visa offers several advantages:
- Convenience: The entire application process is online and can be completed in just 3-5 working days. No need to visit embassies or consulates.
- Speed: Get approval in just 3 working days instead of 4-10 days for a regular visa.
- Multiple entries: e-Visa allows multiple entries within its 1-month validity.
- Lower cost: e-Visa costs only $25, while a regular visa costs $50-75.
- Easy application: User-friendly English website with clear instructions.
- Accepted at many ports: Can enter through any of the 28 designated border gates.
- Digital document: e-Visa is emailed to you, no need to carry paper documents.
Eligibility for Vietnam e-Visa
To be eligible for a Vietnam e-Visa, you must:
- Hold a passport from one of the 80 approved countries, including the US, UK, EU, Australia, India, etc.
- Have a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.
- Have a return flight ticket.
- Pay the visa fee of $25 by credit/debit card or PayPal.
- Provide required documents like passport photos and information page.
- Meet the purpose of visit: tourism or business.
People planning to work, study, visit relatives, etc. are not eligible and should apply for a regular visa.
How to Apply for Vietnam e-Visa
Applying for a Vietnam e-Visa is a quick and straightforward process:
Step 1: Access the official e-Visa website and click ‘Apply for a Vietnam e-Visa’.
Step 2: Create an account by entering your email, password, and confirmation code sent to your email.
Step 3: Login and fill out the online visa application form with personal details, passport info, and trip details.
Step 4: Upload scanned copies of your passport photo and information page. The photo must meet the requirements.
Step 5: Review your application carefully before submission.
Step 6: Pay the visa fee of $25 online using a credit/debit card or PayPal.
Step 7: Wait for the approval email within 3 working days. Check spam folder too.
Step 8: Print the e-Visa approval letter or save a soft copy on your phone.
What Happens After Vietnam e-Visa Approval
Once you receive your approval letter via email, you can start planning your trip to Vietnam. Here’s what happens next:
- Get visa stamped: Present your e-Visa approval letter and passport at the port of entry to get an entry stamp in your passport.
- Multiple entries: You can exit and re-enter Vietnam multiple times within the 1-month validity of the e-Visa.
- Extend your stay: With the e-Visa, you can stay in Vietnam for up to 30 days. You can extend your stay by applying for an extension at local Immigration offices.
- Enjoy Vietnam: Embark on your Vietnamese adventures! Your e-Visa gives you easy access to all the beautiful sights Vietnam has to offer.
- Check visa expiration: The e-Visa expires after 1 month from the date of issue. Check the validity before exiting Vietnam.
- Apply again if needed: You can apply for a new Vietnam e-Visa after completion of your trip if you wish to return within the next few months.
Top 5 Frequently Asked Questions About Vietnam e-Visa
Here are answers to 5 of the most commonly asked questions about Vietnam’s electronic visa:
1. How long does it take to get approved for an e-Visa?
It takes approximately 3 working days to process an e-Visa application. You’ll receive the approval letter via email once processed.
2. Can I extend my e-Visa in Vietnam?
No, the e-Visa cannot be extended beyond 30 days. You must apply for a new e-Visa or regular visa to stay longer.
3. Is there a processing fee for the e-Visa?
Yes, there is a non-refundable processing fee of $25 that you pay at the time of application.
4. What are the eligible ports of entry with an e-Visa?
There are 28 designated ports of entry such as airports, land borders, and seaports where you can enter with an e-Visa.
5. Can I get a visa on arrival instead of e-Visa?
If you are from one of the approved countries, it’s recommended to get an e-Visa since it’s cheaper and faster.
Conclusion
The Vietnam e-Visa offers a convenient and effortless method for travelers to gain entry into Vietnam. By utilizing a straightforward online application procedure and speedy approval, it simplifies the process of planning a trip to Vietnam.
Make sure to submit your application at least three days before your intended travel date, fulfill the necessary requirements, gather all the necessary documents, and adhere to the visa regulations and permitted length of stay. Once you receive your approved e-Visa, you can anticipate a delightful vacation in the captivating country of Vietnam!
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