Vietnam is a beautiful country with a rich history and culture. It’s no wonder that it’s a popular tourist destination. However, before you can visit Vietnam, you’ll need to get a visa. There are two main types of visas available for tourists: the eVisa and the visa on arrival. In this article, we’ll compare these two options to help you decide which type of visa is best for your trip to Vietnam.
Vietnam Visa eVisa
The eVisa is an electronic visa that can be applied for and processed completely online. Here are some key things to know about the Vietnam eVisa:
- Convenient and easy – everything can be done online without having to visit an embassy or consulate.
- Fast processing – approval letter is issued within 3 working days.
- Valid for entry at international airports in Vietnam.
- Single entry visa valid for 30 days costs $25. Multiple entry visa valid for 3 months costs $50.
- Need to provide passport, photo, travel details, and pay fee with credit card.
Getting an eVisa is recommended for its simplicity and speed. The only downside is that it’s a bit more expensive than the visa on arrival.
Vietnam Visa on Arrival vs eVisa
The visa on arrival is obtained when you arrive at one of Vietnam’s international airports. Here’s how it compares to the eVisa:
- Cheaper – single entry visa costs $25 and multiple entry costs $50, same as eVisa.
- Can only be obtained at certain airports, not all entry points.
- Need to have passport photo and pay fee in cash.
- Takes longer – have to wait in immigration line after flight.
- Not available if you’ve overstayed a previous Vietnam visa.
The visa on arrival is a good budget option if you don’t mind the slower processing time. However, the eVisa offers more convenience and flexibility.
Vietnam Visa Run eVisa
A “visa run” is making a quick trip out of Vietnam to renew your expired visa. If you want to do a visa run, you’ll need to get an eVisa, as the visa on arrival is not available after overstaying.
- Need to provide same documents and details as regular eVisa.
- Must indicate on application it’s for a visa run.
- Fee is the same for a regular eVisa.
- Can extend stay without leaving Vietnam.
The eVisa makes visa runs easy to facilitate longer stays. Just don’t overstay the eVisa itself or you’ll have to exit and re-enter again!
Vietnam eVisa Requirements
Applying for an eVisa for Vietnam is easy but you need to meet these requirements:
- Valid passport (6+ months validity remaining, 2+ blank pages).
- Recent passport-style photo (3.5 x 4.5 cm).
- Payment by credit/debit card.
- Applying for tourist purposes only.
As long as you fulfill those requirements, the online eVisa process is straightforward.
How to Apply for Vietnam eVisa
Applying for a Vietnam eVisa is a simple and convenient process that allows travelers to obtain their visa online, avoiding the need to visit an embassy or consulate. The eVisa system was introduced by the Vietnamese government to simplify the visa application process and promote tourism.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a Vietnam eVisa:
- Determine eligibility: Before starting the application process, it’s important to ensure that you are eligible for a Vietnam eVisa. The eVisa is available to citizens of over 80 countries, including popular tourist destinations like the United States, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, and many European countries. You can check the list of eligible countries on the official Vietnam eVisa website or consult with your nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate.
- Gather necessary documents: To complete the application, you will need a few essential documents. These typically include:
- A valid passport with at least six months’ validity beyond your planned entry date.
- A digital passport-sized photo (recent, color, and clear).
- A valid email address and payment method (credit/debit card) for the application fee.
- Access the official Vietnam eVisa website: Visit the official Vietnam eVisa website, which is managed by the Vietnamese government’s immigration department. Ensure you are on the correct website to avoid any scams or fraudulent platforms.
- Fill out the application form: On the homepage of the eVisa website, you will find a link to the online application form. Click on it to begin the application process. The form will require you to provide personal information such as your full name, date of birth, nationality, passport details, and your intended travel dates. Make sure all the information is entered accurately and matches the details on your passport.
- Upload documents: Once you have filled out the application form, you will be prompted to upload your digital passport-sized photo and a scanned copy of your passport’s biographical page. Ensure that both files meet the specified requirements in terms of size, format (usually JPEG), and resolution.
- Review and submit: After uploading the necessary documents, carefully review all the information you have provided. Double-check for any errors or mistakes. Once you are satisfied with the accuracy of your application, click on the submit button.
- Pay the application fee: Upon submitting your application, you will be directed to the payment page. The eVisa application fee is typically non-refundable and varies based on your nationality. Follow the instructions to make the payment using a valid credit or debit card.
- Receive the eVisa approval letter: After successful payment, you should receive an email confirmation acknowledging the receipt of your application and payment. The processing time for eVisa applications is usually around three business days, although it may take longer during peak travel seasons. Be patient while waiting for the approval letter.
- Check your email for the eVisa approval letter: Once your application is approved, you will receive an email containing your eVisa approval letter. This document serves as your official visa. Make sure to print it out and carry it with you during your travels to Vietnam.
- Enter Vietnam and present your eVisa: When you arrive in Vietnam, proceed to the immigration counter at the airport or border checkpoint. Present your passport along with the printed eVisa approval letter to the immigration officer. They will verify your details, stamp your passport, and allow you entry into the country.
It’s important to note that the eVisa is only valid for certain entry points, including major airports, selected land crossings, and seaports in Vietnam. Therefore, ensure you plan your travel accordingly and enter the country through one of the designated points listed on the official Vietnam eVisa website.
By following these steps, you can easily apply for a Vietnam eVisa and enjoy your trip to this beautiful Southeast Asian country hassle-free.
Conclusion
Vietnam offers two types of tourist visas – the convenient eVisa and the budget visa on arrival. Consider getting an eVisa if you want to save time and don’t mind paying a bit more. Or choose the visa on arrival to save money if you have more flexibility. Either way, following the application requirements and instructions will ensure a smooth visa process for your Vietnam trip! Let me know if you have any other visa-related questions.