Complete Guide to Tourist Visa: Explore Vietnam Without Worry
Vietnam is a land of enchanting beauty, rich cultural heritage, and unforgettable experiences. Before exploring its wonders, international travelers need to ensure they have the right travel documentation, including a tourist visa. This guide will provide an in-depth look at Vietnam tourist visa and how to get an urgent visa at an affordable cost.
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What is a Tourist Visa?
A tourist visa is a legal document issued by the Vietnam Immigration Department that grants travelers entry into Vietnam for leisure, sightseeing, or recreational purposes. It is mandatory for most foreign nationals, except for those eligible for visa exemptions. The tourist visa ensures compliance with Vietnam’s immigration policies and allows travelers to explore the country’s breathtaking destinations.
Types of Tourist Visa
Vietnam offers 2 primary types of tourist visas to cater to travelers’ diverse needs:
1. Tourist E-visa
An eVisa, or electronic visa, is a convenient option for travelers who wish to explore Vietnam for long-term stays. This type of visa can be easily applied through the official website of the Vietnam Immigration Department.
- Types of Visas: Single entry or multiple entry
- Duration of Stay: Maximum stay of 90 days.
- Application Process: Fully online, making it convenient for travelers.
Some Advantages and Limitations of eVisa:
- Advantages:
- Fully online application process through the official website of the Vietnam Immigration Department;
- Time-Saving: No need for in-person visits or long waits;
- Lower fees compared to traditional visas.
- Limitations:
- Can not be extended;
- Only be accepted by a limited number of Vietnam entry ports. You can refer to the list of 32 Vietnam ports that accept eVisa here.
2. Tourist Visa on Arrival (VOA)
The Visa on Arrival (VOA) option is ideal for travelers who require greater flexibility or plan to stay for a shorter time in Vietnam, usually no more than 30 days. This type of visa requires a pre-approval letter obtained through a licensed travel agency.
- Validity: Single or multiple entries.
- Duration of Stay: Maximum stay of 30 days.
- Application Process: Requires a pre-approval letter obtained from a licensed travel agency and is issued upon arrival at designated airports.
Some Advantages and Limitations of Visa on Arrival:
- Advantages:
- Can be extended for another 30 days.
- Can be used in all entry ports in Vietnam.
- Make up your travel history with a sticker visa.
- Limitations:
- Requires pre-approval letter before travel.
How to Get a Tourist Visa
1. How to Apply for an eVisa
You can easily obtain an eVisa by following these steps:
- Access the Portal: Visit the eVisa official website of the Vietnam Immigration Department;
- Upload Documents: Submit a digital passport-sized photo and a scanned copy of your passport;
- Complete the Application: Fill in your personal details, travel itinerary, and other information;
- Pay the Fee: Use a credit or debit card to pay the visa fee;
- Receive Approval: Within 3-5 working days, you’ll receive an email with your approved eVisa. Print this document and carry it with you for entry.
Note:
- You can refer to the detailed steps to apply for an eVisa here.
- Please make sure that you fill out the information accurately when applying. Once the visa is issued, the visa fee will not be refunded for any information errors, and you must use visa correction service or apply for a new one.
- To ensure accuracy, you should consider using our Vietnam visa service. We will apply and take care of your application thoroughly, as well as process it urgently (within 1-2 hours) if you are in need.
2. How to Apply for a Visa on Arrival (VOA)
2.1. Apply for a Pre-Approval Letter
To get a visa on arrival, you have to apply for an entry approval letter from a trusted travel agency in advance.
Here are detailed steps to get the approval letter:
- Contact a licensed travel agency online to request a visa approval letter;
- Provide necessary details such as passport photo, intended travel dates and entry port…;
- Pay the approval letter fee;
- Receive the letter after 5-7 working days (normal process) or as fast as 1-2 hours (urgent process). You can refer to the website Vietnam Online Visa to get an urgent approval letter at the cheapest cost.
2.2. Arrival at Airport
- Present your approval letter, passport, 2 passport-sized photos, and the completed visa application form at the immigration counter;
- Pay the stamping fee in cash (USD or VND) to receive your visa.
Note:
Visa application fee:
- Single entry: 25$
- Multiple entry: 50$
How to Extend the Tourist Visa
Visa extension is the process of extending the validity of your current visa, allowing you to stay in Vietnam longer than your initial visa allows instead of leaving the country and applying for a new visa.
Currently, the visa extension is only acceptable for visa on arrival, not eVisa. Travelers can extend their visas through the Vietnam Immigration Department or a trusted local agency.
Follow these steps to extend your tourist visa on arrival:
1. Prepare the Documents
To extend your visa, you need to prepare the following documents:
- Original passport: Valid for at least 2 months from the date of re-entry to Vietnam and has at least 2 blank pages.
- Vietnam visa: Your current sticker visa.
2. Start the Extension Process
- Submit your documents directly to the Immigration Department or through a visa service agency. Using an agency can simplify the process, as they handle all the paperwork and communication with immigration officials on your behalf. You can refer to our visa extension service for more details!
- Pay the extension fee
- Wait for processing: The processing time for a visa extension is usually 5-7 working days. It’s essential to submit your application well before your current visa expires to avoid any penalties.
3. Get Your Extension Stamp
- Once approved, you will receive your passport with an updated visa stamp indicating your new expiration date.
- Complete the extension process.
Important Notes:
- Extensions cannot be guaranteed, so ensure all documents are accurate.
- Overstaying your visa can lead to fines, deportation, or future entry bans.
Key Differences Between Tourist eVisa and Visa on Arrival
| Feature | eVisa | Visa on Arrival |
| Application Method | Fully online | Online for pre-approval letter |
| Entry Type | Single or Multiple Entries | Single or Multiple Entries |
| Validity | Up to 90 Days | Maximum 30 days |
| Processing Time | Usually 3-5 working days Can be processed urgently within 1-2 hours | 5-7 working days (pre-approval) + airport waiting Can be processed urgently within 1-2 hours |
| Where to Collect | Online | At airport upon arrival or Vietnamese Embassy/Consulate |
| Extension | Impossible | Possible |
In short, obtaining Vietnam tourist visa process doesn’t have to be complicated. By understanding the differences between eVisa and Visa on Arrival, travelers can choose the option that best suits their itinerary. With proper preparation, you can focus on immersing yourself in your trip to Vietnam.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I apply for a Vietnam tourist visa at the airport without pre-approval?
No, a pre-approval letter is mandatory for Visa on Arrival. It’s better for you to apply for an approval letter at least 1 to 2 weeks before your trip.
2. Can I switch from an eVisa to a Visa on Arrival once in Vietnam?
No, you cannot change visa types after entering Vietnam.
3. What happens if I overstay my tourist visa in Vietnam?
Overstaying can result in fines, deportation, or future entry bans. It is crucial to address overstays immediately with the Immigration Department. It’s essential for you to extend your visa 7-10 days before your visa expiration date.
