Vietnam E-Visa vs Visa on Arrival: Which is Better for Your Trip?

When planning a trip to Vietnam, one of the key considerations is obtaining a visa. There are two primary ways to secure a visa: applying for a Vietnam e-visa or using the visa on arrival (VOA) option. Both options have their benefits, but the best choice depends on your travel plans and preferences. In this article, we’ll compare the Vietnam e-visa vs visa on arrival, highlighting the differences, advantages, and factors to consider when choosing between the two.

What is a Vietnam E-Visa?

A Vietnam e-visa is an electronic visa that allows travelers to apply online without needing to visit a Vietnamese embassy or consulate. It is available to citizens of over 80 countries, and once approved, you can enter Vietnam at designated checkpoints, including international airports, land borders, and seaports.

What is a Vietnam Visa on Arrival?

A Vietnam visa on arrival (VOA) is a visa that travelers can obtain once they arrive at certain international airports in Vietnam. However, to use this option, travelers must first obtain an approval letter from a travel agency or company in Vietnam before their arrival. The visa is then issued at the airport upon arrival, where travelers present the approval letter and other required documents to immigration officers.

Key Differences Between Vietnam E-Visa and Visa on Arrival

Here’s a breakdown of the key differences between a Vietnam e-visa and a visa on arrival:

1. Application Process

• Vietnam E-Visa: The e-visa process is entirely online. You complete the application form on the official Vietnam government website, upload the required documents (passport bio page and photo), and make an online payment. After processing (usually 3 business days), you will receive the e-visa by email. You can then print the visa and present it upon arrival.

• Vietnam Visa on Arrival: To apply for a VOA, you must first secure an approval letter from a Vietnamese travel agency or sponsor. This involves submitting your passport details and other personal information to the agency, which will process the request and send you the approval letter. Once you have the letter, you can present it at one of Vietnam's international airports to receive your visa on arrival.

2. Processing Time

• Vietnam E-Visa: The processing time for a Vietnam e-visa is typically around 3 business days, though it can sometimes take longer. It is recommended to apply at least a week before your trip to allow for any delays.

• Vietnam Visa on Arrival: The processing time for a VOA depends on how quickly the approval letter is processed by the travel agency or company. This can take 2-3 business days, but it could take longer if there are delays with the agency. After receiving the approval letter, you can get the visa at the airport, usually in under an hour.

3. Cost

• Vietnam E-Visa: The Vietnam e-visa application fee is typically around $25 USD, although it may vary slightly depending on the country of origin. This fee is paid directly online during the application process.

• Vietnam Visa on Arrival: The cost of a VOA generally involves two parts: a service fee for obtaining the approval letter (which ranges from $10 to $20 USD, depending on the agency) and a visa stamping fee (paid at the airport, typically around $25 to $50 USD, depending on the visa type). The total cost can be higher than that of the e-visa, especially if you factor in the service fees from the travel agency.

4. Entry Points

• Vietnam E-Visa: The Vietnam e-visa is accepted at 33 designated entry points, including airports, land borders, and seaports. However, it is important to confirm that your entry point accepts e-visas before making your travel arrangements.

• Vietnam Visa on Arrival: The VOA is only available at certain international airports in Vietnam, including Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and others. It is not accepted at land borders or seaports, so if you're traveling overland, the e-visa is a better option.

5. Eligibility

• 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 whether your nationality is eligible.

• Vietnam Visa on Arrival: The VOA is also available to citizens of a wide range of countries, but it is not available for all nationalities. Additionally, the VOA is only available for travelers arriving by air, not those traveling overland or by sea.

6. Validity and Duration of Stay

• Vietnam E-Visa: The e-visa is valid for a single entry and allows stays of up to 30 days. It cannot be extended once in Vietnam, so if you plan to stay longer, you’ll need to leave and re-enter or apply for a different visa type.

• Vietnam Visa on Arrival: The VOA is typically valid for 1 or 3 months, and it can allow for single or multiple entries, depending on the visa type. You can also apply for a visa extension while in Vietnam, which is not possible with the e-visa.

Which One is Better: Vietnam E-Visa or Visa on Arrival?

Choosing between a Vietnam e-visa vs visa on arrival depends on your specific needs. Here are some factors to consider:

Choose the Vietnam E-Visa if:

• You are eligible for the e-visa and prefer a simple, online application process.
• You’re traveling to Vietnam via air, land, or sea and want the convenience of applying in advance.
• You prefer to have your visa approval ready before arriving in Vietnam, ensuring a smooth entry.

Choose the Vietnam Visa on Arrival if:

• You are flying into Vietnam and are comfortable with the additional step of obtaining an approval letter beforehand.
• You need a longer visa, such as a 3-month multiple-entry visa, which is available through the VOA.
• You are not eligible for the e-visa or prefer a visa that can be extended while in Vietnam.

Conclusion

Both the Vietnam e-visa and visa on arrival are convenient options for travelers, but they have distinct differences that may suit different needs. The e-visa is ideal for those seeking a quick and hassle-free online application process for a short stay, while the VOA offers flexibility with longer stays and extensions.

Regardless of which option you choose, it’s important to understand the requirements, processing times, and costs to ensure a smooth and successful visa application for your Vietnam trip.

Easily apply for your eVisa online by visiting Tourist Requirements.

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