Visa on Arrival in Vietnam Everything You Need to Know
If you are planning to visit Vietnam, you may be wondering about the visa requirements. In recent years, applying for a visa on arrival has become a popular option for tourists. This article will provide an overview of the visa on arrival process in Vietnam, including who is eligible, how to apply, and the pros and cons of this option.
Who Is Eligible for Visa on Arrival?
Not all nationalities are eligible for a visa on arrival in Vietnam. At present, visitors from 80 countries can apply for this type of visa. Some of the eligible countries include the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. It’s important to note that citizens of some countries must obtain a visa prior to arrival, so be sure to check the requirements before making your travel plans.
What Is Visa on Arrival?
Visa on arrival is a convenient way to obtain a visa when traveling to Vietnam. Instead of applying in advance at a Vietnamese embassy or consulate, travelers can apply online for a pre-approval letter. Once the pre-approval letter is issued, the traveler can then obtain their visa stamp upon arrival at one of Vietnam’s international airports.
When Should I Apply For Visa on Arrival?
If you plan to apply for a visa on arrival, it’s important to do so before you depart for Vietnam. The application process typically takes 2-3 business days to complete. Be sure to apply early enough to allow for processing time before your departure date.
How To Apply for Visa on Arrival?
To apply for a visa on arrival in Vietnam, follow these steps:
- Visit the website of a reputable visa agency that provides visa on arrival services.
- Fill out the online application form with your personal information and travel details.
- Pay the service fee online using a credit or debit card.
- Wait for the pre-approval letter to be sent to your email address.
- Print the pre-approval letter and bring it with you on your trip to Vietnam.
- Once you arrive at the airport in Vietnam, proceed to the visa on arrival counter to obtain your visa stamp.
Pros and Cons of Visa on Arrival
As with any travel option, there are both advantages and disadvantages to obtaining a visa on arrival in Vietnam. Here are some of the pros and cons:
Pros
- Convenient: Visa on arrival eliminates the need to visit a Vietnamese embassy or consulate in person.
- Easy to apply: The application process for a visa on arrival is simple and can be completed online.
- Fast processing time: Most visa agencies offer a quick turnaround time for pre-approval letters.
- Cost-effective: The service fee for a visa on arrival is often cheaper than applying for a traditional visa.
Cons
- Limited entry points: Visa on arrival is only available at Vietnam’s international airports. If you plan to enter Vietnam by land or sea, you will need to obtain a traditional visa.
- Longer wait times: The visa on arrival counter at the airport can get busy, which may result in longer wait times.
- Risk of rejection: While rare, there is still a chance that your visa on arrival application could be rejected.
- Uncertainty: As the visa on arrival is not issued until arrival in Vietnam, there is a degree of uncertainty that comes with this option.
Alternatives to Visa on Arrival
If you’re not eligible for a visa on arrival or prefer not to use this option, there are several alternatives to consider:
- Traditional visa: You can apply for a traditional visa through a Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your home country.
- E-visa: An e-visa is another type of visa that can be obtained online before you depart for Vietnam. This option is available to travelers from 80 countries.
- Visa exemption: Citizens of certain countries are exempt from the visa requirement for a short period of time. Be sure to check if you are eligible for this option.
Tips for Using Visa on Arrival
If you decide to obtain a visa on arrival for your trip to Vietnam, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Use a reputable visa agency: Choose a visa agency with a good reputation to ensure a smooth and reliable service.
- Bring cash: You will need to pay the stamping fee for your visa in cash, so be sure to have enough Vietnamese dong on hand.
- Have your paperwork ready: Make sure you have all necessary documents, including your pre-approval letter and passport, ready to present at the visa on arrival counter.
- Be patient: The visa on arrival process can take some time, so be prepared to wait in line.
Comparing Visa Options
To help you decide which visa option is best for your trip to Vietnam, here is a comparison of the three most popular options:
- Visa on arrival: Convenient, easy to apply, and cost-effective, but only available at international airports.
- Traditional visa: Requires visiting a Vietnamese embassy or consulate in person, but allows for entry through all ports of entry.
- E-visa: Convenient and easy to apply for online, but only valid for single-entry and limited to certain ports of entry.
Consider your travel plans and preferences before deciding which option is best for you.
Conclusion
Visa on arrival is a popular and convenient option for travelers visiting Vietnam. Eligible visitors can apply online and obtain their visa stamp upon arrival at one of Vietnam’s international airports. While there are some pros and cons to this option, it can be a cost-effective and hassle-free way to obtain a visa. Be sure to do your research and choose a reputable visa agency to ensure a smooth process.
🇻🇳 Vietnam Visa on Arrival – Q&As Guide for 2025
Are you planning to travel to Vietnam and wondering about the Visa on Arrival (VOA) option? Here’s everything you need to know about this convenient and popular method of getting your visa at Vietnam’s international airports.
❓ What is a Vietnam Visa on Arrival (VOA)?
Visa on Arrival is a type of visa that allows foreign travelers to obtain a visa directly at the airport upon arrival in Vietnam. It requires a pre-approved visa approval letter, which you can apply for online before your trip.
✈️ Who Can Apply for Visa on Arrival?
Most nationalities are eligible for VOA, including travelers from the USA, Canada, UK, Australia, India, South Africa, Philippines, Brazil, and more.
Note: Visa on Arrival is only available for air travelers arriving at international airports in Vietnam (e.g., Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Nha Trang, Phu Quoc).
📄 What Are the Requirements for VOA?
To apply for a Visa on Arrival, you’ll need:
- A valid passport (at least 6 months validity from arrival date)
- 2 passport-sized photos (4×6 cm, white background)
- A visa approval letter (obtained online from a trusted agent)
- Completed Vietnam entry-exit form (can be downloaded online or received at airport)
- Stamping fee (USD cash only at airport counter)
🧾 How to Apply for a Vietnam Visa on Arrival (Step-by-Step)
- Apply Online
Visit VisaOnlineVietnam and submit your passport info, visa type, and arrival details. - Receive Approval Letter
Within 2–5 business days (or faster with urgent service), you’ll receive the visa approval letter via email. - Prepare Documents
Print the approval letter, fill out the entry-exit form, prepare 2 passport photos, and carry cash for stamping fee. - Arrive in Vietnam
Go to the VOA Counter at your arrival airport, submit documents, pay the fee, and receive your visa stamp.
💸 What Are the Costs for VOA?
| Visa Type | Approval Letter Fee | Stamping Fee (Pay on Arrival) |
|---|---|---|
| 1-month Single Entry | From $18 USD | $25 USD |
| 3-month Single Entry | From $25 USD | $25 USD |
| 1-month Multiple Entry | From $25 USD | $50 USD |
| 3-month Multiple Entry | From $35 USD | $50 USD |
Urgent/Express Service: Add $20–$100 depending on processing time.
⏱️ How Long Does it Take?
- Normal Processing: 2–5 working days
- Urgent: 4–8 hours
- Super Urgent: Within 1–4 hours (available even on weekends and holidays with VisaOnlineVietnam.com)
🛬 Which Airports Accept VOA?
- Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) – Hanoi
- Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) – Ho Chi Minh City
- Da Nang International Airport (DAD) – Da Nang
- Cam Ranh International Airport (CXR) – Nha Trang
- Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC) – Phu Quoc
🔄 Can I Extend My VOA?
Yes, visa extensions are possible depending on your visa type. Contact VisaOnlineVietnam.com for help with extension or renewal services.
🤔 Common Questions
❓ Can I get VOA without applying online?
No. You must have a pre-approved visa letter before flying to Vietnam.
❓ Is VOA safe and legal?
Yes! It’s officially approved by the Vietnam Immigration Department and widely used by international travelers.
❓ Can I use VOA if I enter Vietnam by land or sea?
No. VOA is only valid for air travel. Use the e-Visa for land/sea entry.
📞 Need Help?
Let the experts at VisaOnlineVietnam guide you through the process. We offer:
✅ Urgent & Super Urgent Visa
✅ Fast Approval Letters
✅ 24/7 Support
✅ Airport Fast-Track & VIP Services
📧 Email: sales@visaonlinevietnam.com
📱 WhatsApp: (+84)968 18 77 18
🇺🇸 USA Hotline: +1(972)-666-0676.
