If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, one of the first things you’ll need to do is apply for a visa. A visa is a travel document that allows you to enter and stay in the country legally. Applying for a visa can seem daunting, but with the right information and resources, the process can be relatively easy.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the visa application process for travelling to Vietnam. We’ll cover the different types of visas available, the general requirements, and the step-by-step application process. So, whether you’re planning a leisurely vacation or a business trip, read on to learn how to obtain your visa for Vietnam.
Types of visas for Vietnam
When applying for a visa to Vietnam, it is important to understand the different types of visas that are available. The type of visa that you require will depend on the purpose of your visit.
Tourist Visa
A tourist visa is issued to those who are travelling to Vietnam for leisure purposes. This type of visa is valid for a maximum of 30 days and can be extended while in Vietnam if necessary.
Business Visa
A business visa is intended for those who are travelling to Vietnam for work-related purposes. This type of visa can be issued for a longer period of time than a tourist visa and may allow for multiple entries into the country.
Other Visa Categories
In addition to tourist and business visas, there are other specific visa categories that may be available depending on the purpose of your visit. These include visas for those travelling to Vietnam for study or employment, as well as visas for those who are planning to marry a Vietnamese citizen.
It is important to research the specific visa requirements for your intended travel purpose to ensure that you apply for the correct type of visa.
General requirements for a visa to Vietnam
Before applying for a visa to Vietnam, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the general requirements that must be met to ensure a successful application. The following information outlines the necessary documents and conditions for obtaining a Vietnam visa:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Passport | Must have a validity of at least six months beyond the intended stay in Vietnam, with at least one blank page for the visa stamp. |
| Visa application form | Must be completed accurately and truthfully online or in-person and signed by the applicant. |
| Photographs | Two passport-sized photographs must be submitted with the visa application. |
| Visa approval letter | For visa on arrival, a pre-approved visa application must be obtained through a travel agency or visa booking service. |
| Visa fees | Must be completed accurately and truthfully online or in person and signed by the applicant. |
| Additional documents | For business or work-related visas, an invitation letter from a Vietnamese sponsor or employer may be required. |
It is essential to carefully review all requirements and instructions before submitting the visa application to avoid delays or rejections. Applicants must ensure that all information provided is accurate and truthful, as any misrepresentation may result in a denial of the visa.
Vietnam visa application process
Applying for a visa to Vietnam is a straightforward process, but following the correct steps is crucial to ensure a hassle-free experience. Here is a step-by-step guide to applying for a visa to Vietnam:
- Visit the Vietnam embassy or consulate in your home country to apply for a visa. Alternatively, apply online for a Vietnam visa on arrival, which is only available for certain nationalities.
- Fill in the application form with accurate information and attach all necessary documents required for your chosen visa type.
- Pay the visa processing fee online or at the embassy/consulate.
- Wait for your visa approval letter (if applying for a visa on arrival) or for the embassy/consulate to process your visa application.
- Upon approval, receive your visa approval letter (if applying for a visa on arrival) or collect your visa from the embassy/consulate.
It is important to note that visa processing times may vary depending on the type of visa and the embassy/consulate you apply through. Additionally, certain visa types may require additional processing time and documentation, so it is crucial to check the specific requirements before starting the application process.
Vietnam Visa Fees
Before applying for a visa to Vietnam, it’s important to know the fees involved. The cost of a Vietnam visa can vary depending on the type of visa and the processing time.
The visa processing fee is the cost of having your application processed by the Vietnamese government. The stamping fee, also known as the visa approval fee, is the cost of having your visa stamped on your passport upon arrival in Vietnam. In addition to these fees, applicants may also need to pay for additional services such as expedited processing or courier fees.
| Visa Type | Processing Time | Processing Fee | Stamping Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa (1-3 months, single entry) | 2-3 business days | $20 | $25 |
| Business Visa (1-3 months, single entry) | 2-3 business days | $50 | $25 |
| Tourist Visa (1-3 months, multiple entry) | 2-3 business days | $30 | $50 |
| Business Visa (1-3 months, multiple entry) | 2-3 business days | $95 | $50 |
Note that the processing time may vary depending on the embassy or consulate where you submit your application. It’s important to check with the embassy or consulate for their specific processing times.
It’s also important to note that these fees are subject to change without notice. Applicants should check the latest fees with the embassy or consulate before applying for a visa.
Check out the Immigration ePortal for the latest information.
Visa Processing Time for Vietnam
The processing time for a visa to Vietnam varies, depending on the type of visa and the method of application. Typically, it takes around 5-7 working days for embassy or consulate visa applications and 2-3 working days for visa-on-arrival applications. However, it is recommended to apply for a visa well in advance to avoid any delays or inconveniences.
It is important to note that visa processing times may be longer during peak travel seasons or national holidays, so it is advisable to plan accordingly.
If you opt for a visa on arrival, the processing time starts only after you arrive at the airport and submit the required documents. The visa approval letter is usually issued within two working days, and you will have to pay the stamping fee on arrival.
If you need your visa faster, you may be able to request an expedited service for an additional fee. However, this service may not always be available, so it is best to check with the relevant authorities or your travel agent.
Visa Extension and Renewal in Vietnam
If you are planning to stay longer in Vietnam than the duration of your current visa, you may need to extend or renew it. Here’s what you need to know:
| Visa Extension | Visa Renewal |
|---|---|
| If you are still in Vietnam on the day your visa expires, you can apply for a visa extension at the Immigration Department. | If you have already left Vietnam and wish to return, you will need to apply for a new visa at an embassy or consulate outside of the country. |
| You must submit your original passport, along with the visa extension application form and the fee. The processing time for an extension is typically 5-7 working days, but it can take longer. | You will need to obtain a new visa approval letter or visa code, depending on the type of visa you require. Once you have the approval letter, you can apply for a new visa at a Vietnamese embassy or consulate abroad. |
| It’s worth noting that visa extensions are not guaranteed, and it’s at the discretion of the Immigration Department to approve or deny your request. | Be prepared to submit all required documents, including passport photos, your original passport, and the visa application fee. |
| It’s important to plan ahead and apply for an extension or a new visa before your current visa expires to avoid any complications or legal issues. | |
Can I Extend Any Type of Visa?
No, not every type of visa is eligible for an extension. Typically, tourist visas can only be extended once for a maximum of 30 days. Business visas can be extended for longer periods, but it’s at the discretion of the Immigration Department to approve or deny the application.
How Much Will It Cost?
The cost of extending a visa varies depending on the type of visa you have and the length of the extension. You should be prepared to pay a fee ranging from $10 to $100 for extending your visa.
Conclusion
If you need to extend or renew your visa in Vietnam, it’s important to follow the correct procedures and plan ahead to avoid any issues. The process can take several days or even weeks, so be sure to allow plenty of time and stay up to date with the latest requirements and regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions about Vietnam Visas
Applying for a visa to travel to Vietnam can be daunting, especially if it is your first time. To help you out, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions about Vietnam visas that should answer most of your queries.
What is the validity of a Vietnam visa?
The validity of a Vietnam visa depends on the type of visa you have, but it can range from one month to one year. Make sure to check the visa validity before applying, as overstaying your visa can result in hefty fines or even deportation.
Can I enter Vietnam multiple times with my visa?
Yes, you can apply for a multiple-entry visa to Vietnam. This allows you to enter and leave the country several times during the validity period of your visa, which is particularly useful for those who are planning to travel in and out of Vietnam several times during their stay.
What is a visa on arrival?
A visa on arrival is a type of visa that is issued to tourists upon arrival at one of Vietnam’s international airports. To apply for a visa on arrival, you will need to have a visa approval letter, which you can obtain through a travel agency or online service.
Do I need a visa for a short stay in Vietnam?
Yes, most visitors to Vietnam will require a visa, even for short stays. However, citizens from certain countries may be exempt from requiring a visa for shorter durations. Make sure to check with your embassy or consulate to see whether you are eligible for visa exemption.
Can I extend my visa once in Vietnam?
Yes, you can extend your visa while in Vietnam. The extension process can be done through a travel agency or immigration office and usually takes around seven business days to process.
What are the requirements for a student visa to Vietnam?
To obtain a student visa for Vietnam, you will need to provide a letter of acceptance from your school, a visa application form, and other supporting documents such as financial proof and health certificates. Make sure to check the specific requirements with your school and embassy before applying.
What are the fees associated with applying for a Vietnam visa?
The fees for a Vietnam visa include a visa processing fee, which varies depending on the type of visa and where you apply, and a stamping fee, which is paid upon arrival at the airport. Make sure to check the updated fees before applying, as they can change without notice.
We hope that this FAQ section has provided you with useful information about Vietnam visas. Remember to follow the correct application process and requirements to ensure a smooth travel experience to this beautiful country.
Vietnam visa for specific purposes
Apart from tourist and business visas, Vietnam offers a range of visas for foreign nationals visiting the country for specific purposes. This section will provide information on obtaining visas for work, study, and other special categories.
Work visa in Vietnam
Foreign nationals seeking employment in Vietnam need to obtain a work permit and a work visa. The work permit is issued by the Department of Labor, Invalids, and Social Affairs, while the Immigration Department of Vietnam issues the work visa. The work permit is valid for up to two years and can be extended. The work visa is valid for the duration of the work permit.
Student visa in Vietnam
Foreign nationals who wish to pursue their studies in Vietnam need to obtain a student visa. To apply for a student visa, applicants are required to provide an acceptance letter from a recognized educational institution in Vietnam, proof of financial support, and a valid passport. The student visa is valid for the duration of the course.
Other special categories
Vietnam also offers visas for journalists, religious workers, volunteers, and others. The application process and requirements for these visas may vary. It is advisable to seek information from the respective authorities before applying for such visas.
Getting a visa to Vietnam can seem daunting, but following the correct application process can ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience. Remember to research the different visa types and requirements before applying, and make sure to have all the necessary documents ready.
If you have any questions or concerns, refer to our FAQ section or reach out to the embassy or consulate for assistance. With the right preparation and attention to detail, obtaining a visa to Vietnam can be a straightforward process. Safe travels!