Is a Vietnam visa on arrival?

Vietnam Visa on Arrival: Your Gateway Through the Skies

Vietnam, a land of stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, beckons travelers from across the globe. While planning your Vietnamese adventure, navigating visa requirements is often a key consideration. Fortunately, Vietnam offers a convenient option for many: the Visa on Arrival (VOA).

So, what exactly is a Vietnam Visa on Arrival? In essence, it’s a system designed to streamline the entry process, particularly for those arriving by air. Unlike traditional visa applications that require pre-departure submissions to an embassy or consulate, the VOA allows you to obtain your visa stamp directly upon landing at a designated Vietnamese airport.

Here’s a breakdown of how it works:

1. Apply for an Approval Letter: Before your trip, you’ll need to apply for a visa approval letter from a reputable Vietnamese visa agency online. This letter, issued by the Vietnam Immigration Department, serves as pre-approval for your visa. You’ll need to provide your passport details, travel dates, and port of entry.

2. Receive the Approval Letter: Typically within a few business days (depending on the agency and chosen processing time), you’ll receive your visa approval letter via email. Print this letter out – it’s crucial for boarding your flight and obtaining your visa.

3. Prepare Required Documents: In addition to your approval letter, you’ll need to gather the following:

   • Your passport (valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Vietnam).
   • Two passport-sized photos (4×6 cm).
   • A completed entry/exit form (you can usually download this from the visa agency’s website or find it at the airport).
   • US Dollar cash for the stamping fee (the amount varies depending on the visa type – typically $25 for a single entry, 1-month visa).

4. Arrive in Vietnam and Obtain Your Visa: Upon arrival at the designated airport (e.g., Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport, Ho Chi Minh City’s Tan Son Nhat International Airport, or Da Nang International Airport), head to the “Visa on Arrival” counter.

5. Present Your Documents: Submit your approval letter, passport, photos, completed entry/exit form, and pay the stamping fee.

6. Receive Your Visa Stamp: After a brief processing period, you’ll receive your visa stamp affixed to your passport, officially granting you entry into Vietnam.

Benefits of the Vietnam Visa on Arrival:

• Convenience: It’s often faster and easier than applying for a traditional visa.
• Flexibility: Allows for last-minute travel plans.
• Cost-Effective: Can be more affordable than applying through an embassy, depending on your location.

Important Considerations:

• Air Travel Only: The VOA is exclusively for those arriving in Vietnam by air.
• Approval Letter is Essential: You cannot obtain a visa on arrival without a pre-arranged approval letter.
• Cash Payment: The stamping fee must be paid in US Dollars.
• Choose a Reputable Agency: Select a trusted and reliable visa agency to ensure a smooth process.
• Departure Flexibility: Once you’re inside the country, you are generally free to depart by land, sea, or air. This means you can arrive by plane using your VOA and then travel to neighboring countries by bus or boat before eventually departing from a different airport.

In conclusion, the Vietnam Visa on Arrival offers a convenient and efficient solution for air travelers seeking to experience the beauty and wonder of Vietnam. By following the outlined steps and ensuring you have all the necessary documentation, you can streamline your entry and begin your Vietnamese adventure with ease.