If you're planning a trip to Vietnam, you'll be glad to know that getting a visa is a fairly simple process for Indian travellers, thanks to the Vietnam Visa On Arrival (VOA) option. Now, instead of dealing with the hassle of visiting embassies or consulates, you can apply online before your trip. When you arrive at one of Vietnam's international airports, your visa will be waiting for you—quick, convenient, and perfect for those spontaneous plans. All you need to do is carry the necessary approval letter (which you get online), and upon landing, you'll fill out some paperwork, pay a small stamping fee, and voilà—you're all set to explore! Keep in mind, that this option is only available for air travellers, so if you're planning to enter by land or sea, you'll need to get your visa sorted in advance. For a truly worry-free journey, considering comprehensive Travel Insurance for Vietnam is also a smart choice.
An On arrival Visa is a great choice for many holiday travellers who want to enter a certain country without much hassle in terms of visa requirements; not even preparation for the travel. In a nutshell, you get your visa when you arrive in the country. You have to apply online for an approval letter before your trip. Once you reach your destination, all it takes is to show this letter, fill out a form, and make a small stamping fee. It is especially helpful for last-minute plans or impromptu holidays. Just remember, this option typically applies only to air travel, so ensure you have everything sorted before your journey.
Getting a Vietnam visa on arrival as an Indian citizen is a straightforward and convenient process that allows you to focus on enjoying your trip rather than worrying about paperwork. Let’s break it down step by step, so you know exactly what to do.
• Check Eligibility: First, confirm that you're travelling to Vietnam by air, as the On arrival Visa is available only for those entering the country via international airports. If you're crossing borders by land or sea, you’ll need to obtain a visa beforehand.
• Apply Online: Go to the website of a reliable visa agency and fill in the application form for the visa approval letter online. In most cases, you will be required to fill in names, nationality, passport numbers, as well as travel dates. Ensure that the details match those on your passport to avoid hiccups.
• Pay the service fee: Once you have filled out the application form, you will be required to pay the service fee. The service fee varies depending on the type of visa that you're going to apply for and the service speed you have chosen. It's between $10 and $25, and you must keep proof of payment.
• Receive your Approval Letter: Your application will take a few hours to a couple of days to process, after which you will be emailed your Visa Approval Letter. This is a very crucial document, so print it out and keep it with your other travel documents.
Once you’ve landed in Vietnam, here’s what you need to do at the airport:
• Go to the Visa On Arrival Counter: Once you have landed, you'll notice signboards leading you towards the visa on arrival counter. It's usually at the immigration counter, so do not worry, you are not going to miss it.
• Prepare Your Documents: You’ll need a few things at this point
• Your printed visa approval letter
• A passport-sized photo (4x6 cm is a common size)
• Your passport (valid for at least six months from your arrival date)
• Cash for the stamping fee (usually around $25 for a single-entry visa; check the latest rates).
• Fill Entry Form: The counter will give you a form to fill out. It’s quite simple, asking for basic information like your name, passport number, and travel details.
• Pay Stamping Fee: The immigration officer would ask you to deposit your documents and cash stamping fee, which he will then use to stamp your visa on the passport.
• Collect Your Passport: After a short wait, your passport will be returned to you, complete with your visa. Congratulations! You’re ready to explore Vietnam.
• Before you leave for the airport, ensure you have all the required documents: your visa approval letter, passport-sized photo, and cash for the stamping fee. Missing any of these can lead to delays.
• The online application is usually brief, but it is a good idea to apply in advance of your trip, to see if anything gets in the way.
• Ensure that you keep the approval letter handy as you might need it for any other reason during your stay.
• Stick to reputable visa agencies when applying. Reading reviews and checking their reliability can save you from potential scams.
• Make sure to bring US dollars or Vietnamese dong for the stamping fee. Credit cards may not always be accepted at the visa counter.
When it comes to the Vietnam On Arrival Visa, it’s essential to understand that the process can differ significantly depending on the traveller’s nationality. For Indian citizens, the on arrival visa is a straightforward option, but other nationalities may face varied rules and procedures.
Eligibility criteria differ drastically among various nationalities. For example, an On Arrival Visa is available if the traveller enters by air, which easily makes it convenient for spontaneous Indian travellers. For instance, Chile and Panama citizens are permitted to stay for as long as 90 days. Meanwhile, other nationalities like the UK, Germany, and Japan are allowed to stay for 45 days only. This would mean that if you travel with some friends from different nationalities, then it becomes really important for you to establish eligibility and the maximum number of stays each one of them has.
For the Vietnam On arrival Visa, Indian citizens need to carry the approval letter, a passport-sized photo, and their passport. This simplicity makes the process quite accessible. However, for travellers from different countries, the documentation can vary. Some nationalities may need additional paperwork, such as financial proof or health insurance, which can complicate the process. Always double-check the requirements specific to your nationality to avoid any surprises at the airport.
For Indian travellers, the process is quite user-friendly. You start by applying for an approval letter online, which is necessary before you board your flight. This letter is typically processed quickly, often within hours or a couple of days. In contrast, the application process for other nationalities can be more complex. For instance, some countries might not require an approval letter at all, allowing travellers to obtain their visa upon arrival without prior arrangements. Others may demand extensive documentation, such as proof of accommodation or return flights, making it necessary to plan.
Depending on your nationality, research should be done on the visa requirements before going to Vietnam. So you can avoid being confused with long queues during your arrival time.
The stamp fee at the visa counter often requires local currency cash. It’s a good idea to bring US dollars or Vietnamese dong, as credit cards may not be accepted.
Research a reliable website or travel agency to apply for the approval letter for a visa. This reduces your risk of scams and guarantees the legitimacy of your papers.
Pack all your documents so that you can bring them along with you as you travel. You will have to hand in your approval letter and entry form at the visa counter when you reach Vietnam.
Different nationalities have different durations for which you can stay in Vietnam. So, before you go, find out how long you are allowed to stay. Make sure all persons travelling with you are aware of their maximum stays so that no such inconvenience might come during your stay.
Due to the health conditions worldwide, certain countries have required extra entry conditions. So, check out what health protocols Vietnam has in place before you head over there.
Going about the On arrival Visa process for Vietnam can be a breeze if you’re well-prepared. While Indian citizens enjoy a relatively straightforward process, travellers from other nationalities can encounter different requirements and procedures. By researching the specifics of your nationality and having all your documents in order, you can ensure a smooth entry into Vietnam. Whether you're wandering through the lively streets of Hanoi or unwinding on the beaches of Da Nang, knowing the visa process will help you focus on making the most of your trip! And for that ultimate peace of mind, always consider securing robust Travel Insurance before you embark on your adventure.
Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.
Published on April 07, 2025