If you’re planning to visit Vietnam, one of the essential things you need to do is to secure a tourist visa. A Vietnam tourist visa allows you to stay in the country for a limited period for tourism purposes. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how to get a Vietnam tourist visa.
Requirements for a Vietnam Tourist Visa
Before applying for a Vietnam tourist visa, you need to make sure you meet the necessary requirements. Here are the essential documents you’ll need:
Valid Passport
To apply for a Vietnam tourist visa, you must have a valid passport with at least six months of validity left. You’ll need to submit your original passport with your visa application.
Visa Application Form
You’ll need to fill out a visa application form, which you can download from the Vietnam Embassy’s website or obtain at the embassy in person. The form will require you to provide personal information such as your name, date of birth, passport number, and intended travel dates.
Passport-size Photos
You’ll need two passport-size photos, taken within the last six months, with a white background. The photos should be 4×6 cm, and your face must be visible clearly without glasses or headwear.
Visa Approval Letter
If you’re planning to apply for a Vietnam tourist visa online, you’ll need to obtain a visa approval letter from the Vietnam Immigration Department. This letter allows you to obtain your visa upon arrival at the airport in Vietnam. To get the letter, you’ll need to apply through a reputable visa service provider or travel agency.
Different Types of Vietnam Tourist Visa
There are three types of Vietnam tourist visas: single entry, multiple entry, and visa exemption. Here’s what you need to know about each type:
Single Entry Tourist Visa
A single-entry tourist visa allows you to enter Vietnam once and stay for up to 30 days. If you plan to leave Vietnam and return during your trip, you’ll need to apply for a new visa.
Multiple Entry Tourist Visa
If you plan to leave and re-enter Vietnam several times during your trip, a multiple-entry tourist visa is the best option. This visa allows you to enter and exit Vietnam multiple times within a specified period.
Tourist Visa Exemption
If you’re a citizen of a country that has a visa exemption agreement with Vietnam, you may not need a visa. However, the exemption only applies to stays of up to 15 days, and you’ll need to meet certain requirements, such as having a return ticket and a valid passport.
How to Apply for a Vietnam Tourist Visa
Once you’ve gathered all the necessary documents, you can apply for a Vietnam tourist visa. Here are two ways to apply:
Applying Online
The easiest and most convenient way to apply for a Vietnam tourist visa is online. To do so, you’ll need to follow these steps:
- Find a reputable visa service provider or travel agency that offers visa approval letter services.
- Fill out the online visa application form and provide all necessary information.
- Pay the visa processing fee online using a credit or debit card.
- Wait for the visa approval letter to be emailed to you within two business days.
- Print the visa approval letter and bring it with you to Vietnam.
- Upon arrival at the airport in Vietnam, present your visa approval letter, passport, and two passport-size photos to the immigration officers.
- Pay the visa stamping fee and get your visa stamped on your passport.
Applying at Vietnam Embassy or Consulate
If you prefer to apply for a Vietnam tourist visa in person, you can do so at the Vietnam Embassy or Consulate in your country. Here are the steps to follow:
- Visit the Vietnam Embassy or Consulate website in your country and download the visa application form.
- Fill out the application form and provide all necessary information.
- Submit the application form, original passport, two passport-size photos, and visa fee to the embassy or consulate.
- Wait for the visa processing time, which can take several business days.
- Once your visa is approved, collect your passport and visa from the embassy or consulate.
Processing Time and Costs
The processing time and costs for a Vietnam tourist visa can vary depending on the type of visa you apply for and your location. Here are some important things to keep in mind:
Standard Processing Time
The standard processing time for a Vietnam tourist visa is two to three business days if you apply online. However, if you apply through the Vietnam Embassy or Consulate, it can take up to five business days.
Urgent Processing Time
If you need your visa urgently, you can opt for expedited processing, which can take as little as four hours to one business day. However, expedited processing comes at an additional cost.
Visa Fees
The cost of a Vietnam tourist visa varies depending on the type of visa you apply for and your location. Generally, the visa fee ranges from $25 to $135. Additionally, you’ll need to pay a stamping fee upon arrival at the airport in Vietnam, which ranges from $25 to $135 depending on the type of visa.
Processing Time and Costs
When applying for a Vietnam tourist visa, you’ll need to consider the processing time and visa fees. The processing time can vary depending on the method of application and the type of visa you’re applying for. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Standard Processing Time
The standard processing time for a Vietnam tourist visa is usually five business days. This processing time applies to applications submitted at the embassy or consulate in person.
Urgent Processing Time
If you need your visa sooner, you can request urgent processing. Urgent processing usually takes two to three business days, but it can take longer depending on the embassy’s workload.
Visa Fees
The cost of a Vietnam tourist visa varies depending on the type of visa, processing time, and where you’re applying. The fee for a single-entry visa is usually around $25, while a multiple-entry visa can cost up to $135. You’ll also need to pay a service fee if you’re applying for a visa approval letter online.
Tips and Reminders for a Successful Application
To ensure your Vietnam tourist visa application is successful, follow these tips and reminders:
Follow Guidelines and Instructions Carefully
Make sure you read and understand the guidelines and instructions before submitting your application. Follow the instructions carefully and provide all the required documentation.
Provide Accurate and Complete Information
Ensure that all the information you provide on the visa application form is accurate and complete. Any errors or omissions can result in your application being rejected.
Check Application Status Frequently
After you’ve submitted your application, you can check the status of your visa application online. Make sure you check frequently to stay updated on the progress of your application.
By following these tips and reminders, you can increase your chances of getting a Vietnam tourist visa and ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience in Vietnam.
