Do Australians need a visa for Vietnam if on a cruise ship?

Vietnam Visa Requirements for Australian Cruise Passengers

As an Australian citizen, you will require a visa to enter Vietnam, even if you are arriving on a cruise ship. This is a mandatory requirement for all Australian and New Zealand passport holders.

Visa Types Available

There are several types of visas available for Australian cruise passengers:

• Single-entry tourist visa: Valid for a single entry into Vietnam for up to 30 days.
• Multiple-entry tourist visa: Valid for multiple entries into Vietnam within a period of 30 or 90 days.
• Business visa: For individuals traveling to Vietnam for business purposes.

Application Process

You can apply for a Vietnamese visa in one of two ways:

• Online through the Vietnam Immigration Department: This is the most convenient and recommended method. You can apply for a visa online up to 30 days prior to your arrival in Vietnam. The process takes approximately 3-5 business days.
• At the Vietnamese embassy or consulate: You can also apply for a visa in person at the Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your home country. The processing time may vary depending on the embassy or consulate.

Requirements for Visa Application

To apply for a Vietnamese visa, you will need to provide the following documents:

• Passport with a validity of at least six months beyond the end date of your trip
• Passport with a blank visa page
• Two passport-sized photographs
• Visa application form
• Visa fee (varies depending on the type of visa and processing time)

For children under the age of 18, they will require their own separate passports and visas.

Important Notes

• It is highly recommended that you apply for your visa well in advance of your cruise departure date to avoid any delays.
• If you are denied a visa, you will not be able to enter Vietnam.
• You must have your visa stamped in your passport upon arrival in Vietnam.
• Overstaying your visa is a serious offense and can result in fines or imprisonment.