Complete Guide to Vietnam Online Visa Application: Process, Requirements & More

Discover the application process, requirements, types, validity, processing time, required documents, cost, visa extension, and FAQs about Vietnam online visa for both tourism and business purposes.

Vietnam online visa application process

The online visa application process for Vietnam typically involves the following steps:

1. Visit the official website of the Vietnam Immigration Department or the Vietnam e-Visa website.

2. Fill out the online application form with accurate personal information, including your full name, passport details, date of birth, nationality, and intended travel dates.

3. Upload a scanned copy of your passport’s bio page (the page containing your photo and passport information).

4. Pay the required visa processing fees online using a valid credit or debit card.

5. Submit your application and wait for the processing time. The processing time may vary, but it usually takes a few business days.

6. Once your application is approved, you will receive an electronic visa approval letter via email. Make sure to print this letter as you will need to present it upon arrival in Vietnam.

7. Upon arrival at a Vietnamese airport, proceed to the immigration counter and present your passport, visa approval letter, and any other required documents.

8. Pay the stamping fee in cash (US dollars or Vietnamese dong) to get your visa stamped in your passport. The stamping fee amount varies depending on the visa type and duration of stay.

Note: The online visa application process may differ slightly depending on the specific website or platform used. It is important to check the official websites for the most up-to-date instructions and requirements for applying for an online visa to Vietnam.

Requirements for Vietnam online visa

To obtain an online visa for Vietnam, you need the following requirements:

1. Valid passport: Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your planned entry date into Vietnam.

2. Personal information: You will need to provide your full name, date of birth, nationality, gender, and passport details.

3. Purpose of visit: Specify whether your visit is for tourism, business, or other purposes.

4. Travel details: Include your intended arrival date, port of entry, and duration of stay in Vietnam.

5. Digital photo: Upload a recent passport-sized photo with a plain background.

6. Visa fee payment: Pay the required visa processing fee through the designated online payment system.

7. Email address: Provide a valid email address where you will receive updates and the approved visa letter.

8. Internet access: Access to a computer or mobile device with an internet connection is necessary to complete the online application process.

It is important to note that the specific requirements for an online visa may vary depending on your nationality and the type of visa you are applying for. It is recommended to check the official website of the Vietnam Immigration Department or consult with the Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your country for the most up-to-date and accurate information.

Types of online visas available for Vietnam

The types of online visas available for Vietnam include:

1. eVisa: This is a single-entry visa valid for up to 30 days. It can be applied for online through the official website of the Vietnamese Immigration Department.

2. Visa on Arrival (VOA): This type of visa allows travelers to pick up their visa upon arrival at one of Vietnam’s international airports. It requires pre-approval letter obtained through a travel agency or an organization authorized by the Vietnamese government.

Please note that the availability and specific requirements for online visas may change over time, so it’s always recommended to check with the relevant authorities or consult an official source for the most up-to-date information.

Validity and duration of Vietnam online visa

The validity and duration of a Vietnam online visa vary depending on the type of visa obtained. Typically, the most common types of online visas for Vietnam are the eVisa and Visa on Arrival (VOA).

1. eVisa: The eVisa allows for single entry into Vietnam and is valid for a maximum stay of 30 days. The visa is typically valid for 30 days from the expected date of arrival provided during the application process.

2. Visa on Arrival (VOA): The VOA is also a single-entry visa, but it can be issued for various durations ranging from 1 month to 3 months. The specific duration of the VOA depends on the applicant’s request and the approval granted by the Vietnamese immigration authorities.

It’s important to note that the validity period starts from the date of entry specified in the visa application and not from the date of visa issuance. Additionally, both the eVisa and VOA allow travelers to stay in Vietnam for the designated duration as long as they do not exceed the authorized period.

Please keep in mind that visa regulations can change over time, so it’s advisable to consult the official website of the Vietnamese embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information regarding the validity and duration of online visas for Vietnam.

Processing time for Vietnam online visa

The processing time for a Vietnam online visa can vary depending on the type of visa and the processing option chosen. Generally, it takes about 2-3 working days for the approval letter to be issued for a standard tourist visa. However, there are also options for urgent processing that can provide the approval letter within 1 working day or even a few hours in some cases. It is important to note that the processing time does not include weekends or public holidays.

Documents required for Vietnam online visa

Passport with at least 6 months validity, digital passport-sized photo, and a valid email address are the main documents required for Vietnam’s online visa application.

Cost of Vietnam online visa

The cost of a Vietnam online visa varies depending on the type and duration of the visa you are applying for. As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the fee for a single-entry tourist visa was around $25 USD, while a multiple-entry visa could cost around $50 USD. However, please note that visa fees may have changed since then, and it is always recommended to consult the official website of the Vietnam Immigration Department or contact the nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information regarding visa costs.

How to extend a Vietnam online visa

To extend a Vietnam online visa, follow these steps:

1. Visit the official website of the Vietnam Immigration Department or a reliable visa extension service provider.

2. Look for the visa extension section on the website and find the online application form.

3. Fill out the required information accurately in the online form. This usually includes your personal details, passport information, current visa details, and intended stay duration.

4. Upload any necessary supporting documents, such as a copy of your passport, current visa, and proof of travel plans or accommodation.

5. Pay the visa extension fee using the available payment options provided on the website.

6. Submit your application online and wait for a confirmation email or receipt.

7. The processing time for the visa extension varies, but it typically takes a few working days to receive a response.

8. Check your email regularly for updates on your visa extension application. Once approved, you will receive an approval letter via email.

9. Print out the approval letter and prepare two passport-sized photos.

10. Visit the Vietnam Immigration Office or the designated visa extension counter at the airport upon your arrival in Vietnam.

11. Present your approval letter, passport, and photos to the immigration officer.

12. Pay the visa stamping fee (in cash, typically in Vietnamese Dong) to get your extended visa stamped in your passport.

13. Receive your extended visa and keep it with you throughout your stay in Vietnam.

Note: It is crucial to start the visa extension process before your current visa expires to avoid any penalties or overstaying issues.

Please note that visa regulations and procedures may change over time, so it’s recommended to consult official sources or contact the Vietnam Immigration Department for the most up-to-date information regarding visa extensions.

Vietnam online visa for business purposes

Vietnam offers an online visa application system called the eVisa, which can be used for business purposes. The eVisa allows travelers to enter Vietnam for various reasons, including attending conferences, meetings, or engaging in trade activities.

To apply for a Vietnam online visa for business purposes, you need to follow these steps:

1. Visit the official website of the Vietnam Immigration Department.
2. Fill out the online application form with accurate details.
3. Upload a scanned copy of your passport’s biographic page.
4. Provide a digital passport-sized photo.
5. Pay the required visa processing fee online.
6. Submit your application and wait for the processing time (usually 3-5 working days).
7. Once approved, you will receive an electronic visa via email.
8. Print out the eVisa and carry it with you when traveling to Vietnam.
9. Present your eVisa to the immigration officers upon arrival in Vietnam.

It is important to note that the eVisa is only applicable for citizens of certain countries. Before applying, check if your country is eligible for the eVisa program.

Please remember to verify all information and requirements on the official Vietnam Immigration Department’s website as they may periodically update their procedures and regulations.

Common questions about Vietnam online visa

Common questions about Vietnam online visa include:

1. What is an online visa for Vietnam? An online visa (also known as e-visa) for Vietnam is an electronic travel authorization that allows foreign visitors to enter and stay in Vietnam for a specified period. It is obtained online without the need to visit an embassy or consulate.

2. How can I apply for a Vietnam online visa? To apply for a Vietnam online visa, you need to visit the official website of the Vietnamese immigration authority or use a reputable third-party visa service provider. Fill out the application form, upload the required documents (such as passport bio page and passport-sized photo), and pay the visa fee online.

4. Who is eligible for a Vietnam online visa? Citizens of eligible countries can apply for a Vietnam online visa. The specific list of eligible countries may vary, so it’s important to check the latest information before applying. Generally, citizens of most countries are eligible for an online visa.
5. What is the validity period of a Vietnam online visa? The validity period of a Vietnam online visa typically ranges from 30 days to 180 days, depending on the type of visa and the country of origin. The visa allows for a single entry or multiple entries within the specified duration.
6. Can I extend my Vietnam online visa? No, the Vietnam online visa cannot be extended. If you wish to stay in Vietnam longer than the permitted duration, you will need to leave the country before your visa expires and apply for a new visa or seek alternative visa options, such as a visa extension or visa renewal.

6. Are there any entry restrictions with a Vietnam online visa? It’s important to note that having a valid Vietnam online visa does not guarantee entry into the country. Immigration officers at the port of entry have the final authority to grant or deny entry. Make sure to meet all the entry requirements, including having a valid passport, sufficient funds, and a return or onward ticket.

7. Can I enter Vietnam at any port with an online visa? No, the Vietnam online visa is only valid for entry through specific designated ports of entry, including international airports, land border crossings, and seaports. Before traveling, check the list of eligible ports to ensure your intended point of entry is included.

8. How long does it take to process a Vietnam online visa? The processing time for a Vietnam online visa can vary depending on the immigration authority or service provider. In some cases, it can be processed within a few business days. It’s recommended to apply well in advance of your intended travel dates to allow for any unforeseen delays.

Please note that the visa policies and procedures can change over time, so it’s important to refer to official sources or consult with relevant authorities for the most up-to-date information regarding Vietnam online visas.