Can I Apply for a Vietnam Visa Online? Everything You Need to Know

- December 20, 2024

If you're planning a trip to Vietnam, one of the first things you’ll need to think about is obtaining a visa. Depending on your nationality, you may be wondering, "Can I apply for a Vietnam visa online?" The good news is that, yes, you can apply for a Vietnam visa online! In fact, Vietnam offers an efficient and convenient way to apply for a visa online, making the process much simpler than visiting an embassy or consulate. In this guide, we’ll explore how you can apply for a Vietnam visa online, including the different types of online visa options available.

Types of Vietnam Visas You Can Apply for Online

Vietnam offers two main types of visas that can be applied for online:

Vietnam E-Visa
Vietnam Visa on Arrival (VOA)

Both of these visas allow you to apply online, but they differ in the application process, requirements, and eligibility. Let’s take a closer look at each option to help you understand how you can apply for a Vietnam visa online.

1. How to Apply for a Vietnam E-Visa Online

The Vietnam e-visa is an electronic visa that can be applied for completely online without the need to visit an embassy or consulate. This visa is available to citizens of over 80 countries and is ideal for short stays, typically for tourism or business purposes.

Steps to Apply for a Vietnam E-Visa Online:

Step 1: Check Eligibility
Ensure your nationality is eligible for the Vietnam e-visa. The e-visa is available to citizens of over 80 countries, including the United States, Canada, the UK, Australia, and most European countries. You can check the official Vietnam e-visa website to confirm eligibility.
Step 2: Visit the Official Vietnam E-Visa Website
The official Vietnam e-visa application portal is where you will complete your application. You can access it in several languages, making it easy for travelers worldwide to apply.
Step 3: Complete the Application Form
Fill in the required personal details such as your full name, passport number, nationality, and travel dates. You will also need to provide information about your entry and exit points in Vietnam (airport, land border, or seaport).
Step 4: Upload Required Documents
You will need to upload a scanned copy of your passport bio page and a passport-sized photo that meets the specifications on the application form.
Step 5: Pay the Application Fee
The Vietnam e-visa application requires an online payment, typically around $25 USD. Payment can be made using a credit or debit card.
Step 6: Wait for Processing
After submitting your application, the processing time for a Vietnam e-visa is generally 3 business days, although it can take longer in some cases.
Step 7: Receive and Print Your E-Visa
Once approved, you’ll receive an email with your e-visa attached. You can download it, print it, and present it to immigration authorities upon your arrival in Vietnam.

2. How to Apply for a Vietnam Visa on Arrival (VOA) Online

The Vietnam visa on arrival (VOA) allows travelers to apply for a visa online, but the process involves two main steps: securing an approval letter in advance and obtaining the visa upon arrival at a Vietnamese airport.

Steps to Apply for a Vietnam Visa on Arrival Online:

Step 1: Find a Reputable Travel Agency
To apply for a VOA, you first need to find a licensed travel agency that can help you obtain an approval letter. Many agencies offer online services where you can submit your details and request an approval letter.
Step 2: Submit Your Application
Complete the online application form provided by the travel agency. This typically includes your full name, passport details, planned entry date, and the airport at which you’ll arrive in Vietnam.
Step 3: Receive Your Approval Letter
Once your application is processed and approved, the agency will send you an official approval letter. This letter is required to receive your visa upon arrival in Vietnam. It is typically emailed to you within 2-3 business days.
Step 4: Pay the Stamping Fee
In addition to the service fee for obtaining the approval letter, you will also need to pay the stamping fee at the airport upon arrival. The stamping fee ranges from $25 to $50 USD, depending on the type of visa you require (single or multiple entries).
Step 5: Collect Your Visa Upon Arrival
After landing at a designated international airport in Vietnam, proceed to the VOA counter, present your approval letter, passport-sized photo, and stamping fee payment. You will then be issued your Vietnam visa.

Important Notes on the Vietnam Visa on Arrival:

The VOA is only available for travelers arriving by air. It cannot be used for those entering Vietnam by land or sea.
The VOA can be applied for with a stay of up to 30 days (single entry) or 60 days (multiple entries), and extensions are possible if necessary.
Ensure that you apply for your VOA approval letter at least 5-7 days before your trip to avoid any last-minute issues.

Key Differences Between the Vietnam E-Visa and Visa on Arrival

Both the Vietnam e-visa and visa on arrival are popular options for travelers applying for a Vietnam visa online. However, they have different requirements and processes:

Feature	Vietnam E-Visa	Vietnam Visa on Arrival
Application Process	Complete online application and pay online.	Apply for an approval letter online, then collect visa at the airport.
Processing Time	3 business days	2-3 business days for approval letter.
Visa Type	Single entry only, valid for 30 days.	Single or multiple entry, valid for up to 3 months.
Availability	Available for citizens of over 80 countries.	Available for citizens of most countries arriving by air.
Entry Points	Accepted at 33 designated checkpoints.	Only available at certain international airports in Vietnam.
Cost	Approximately $25 USD.	Service fee for approval letter + stamping fee ($25-$50 USD).