Are you planning to visit the beautiful country of Vietnam? Then you will need a tourist visa. In this guide, we will discuss everything you need to know about obtaining a tourist visa for Vietnam. From the application process to the cost and requirements, we’ve got you covered. So let’s dive in and make your journey to Vietnam hassle-free!
Tourist Visa for Vietnam
If you are planning to travel to Vietnam for tourism purposes, you will need a tourist visa to enter the country. The process of obtaining a tourist visa is fairly simple and can be done online or through the embassy. The type of visa you need depends on your nationality, length of stay, and purpose of travel. For most travelers, a single-entry tourist visa is sufficient, which allows them to stay in Vietnam for up to 30 days.
Apply for Tourist Visa Vietnam
The easiest and most convenient way to apply for a tourist visa for Vietnam is through the online e-visa system. This system was introduced by the Vietnamese government in 2017 and is available to citizens of 80 countries including the United States, Canada, Australia, and most European countries. To apply for an e-visa, you will need to fill out an online application form and provide a digital photo and a scan of your passport.
Another option is to apply for a visa on arrival (VOA) at one of the international airports in Vietnam. However, this process can be time-consuming and requires a pre-approval letter from a local tour agency or company. It is recommended to use the e-visa system for a more streamlined and hassle-free process.
If you prefer to apply for a visa through the embassy, you will need to submit a completed application form, a passport-sized photo, and a copy of your passport along with the visa fee. The processing time for embassy visas can take up to a week, so it is advisable to apply well in advance of your trip.
Getting a Tourist Visa for Vietnam
Obtaining a tourist visa for Vietnam is a straightforward process, and as long as you meet the requirements, there should be no issues with your application. Here are the steps you need to follow to get a tourist visa for Vietnam:
- Determine the type of visa you need based on your nationality and purpose of travel.
- Choose the appropriate application method – online, embassy, or VOA.
- Gather all necessary documents such as passport, photo, and application form.
- Apply for the visa through the chosen method and pay the required fee.
- Wait for the visa approval, which can take up to a few weeks depending on the method.
- Once approved, print out your visa and bring it with you on your trip to Vietnam.
Tourist Visa Vietnam Cost
The cost of a tourist visa for Vietnam varies depending on the type of visa, length of stay, and application method. The e-visa costs $25 USD for a single-entry visa and $50 USD for a multiple-entry visa, while the embassy visa fee can range from $60 to $200 USD depending on your country of residence.
If you choose to apply for a visa on arrival, you will need to pay a processing fee to the tour agency or company that provides the pre-approval letter. The total cost will depend on the number of people in your group and the duration of your stay.
Vietnam Online Tourist Visa
As mentioned earlier, the Vietnamese government introduced the e-visa system in 2017 to simplify the visa application process for tourists. This online system allows citizens of 80 countries to apply for a visa without having to visit an embassy or consulate. The e-visa is valid for 30 days, and you can enter Vietnam through any of the 33 designated entry points, including international airports, land borders, and seaports.
One of the main advantages of the e-visa system is that it eliminates the need for a pre-approval letter and allows you to apply directly through the government’s website. This makes the process much faster and more convenient, especially for those who are short on time. However, it is important to note that not all countries are eligible for an e-visa, so be sure to check the list before applying.
Cost of Tourist Visa Vietnam
The cost of an e-visa for Vietnam is $25 USD for a single-entry visa and $50 USD for a multiple-entry visa. This fee is paid online during the application process and is non-refundable. It is also important to note that there may be additional fees if you choose to enter Vietnam through certain entry points such as seaports.
How to Use Tourist Visa for Vietnam
Now that you have obtained your tourist visa for Vietnam, it’s time to use it! Here are some tips on how to make the most out of your visa:
- Plan your trip carefully to make sure your visa does not expire while you are still in the country.
- Keep your visa with you at all times, as authorities may ask for it during random checks.
- Be aware of the entry and exit requirements of Vietnam, such as having a return or onward ticket.
- Make sure to have enough cash to pay for any additional visa fees at the entry point, if applicable.
- Enjoy your trip and explore the beautiful country of Vietnam!
Examples for Tourist Visa for Vietnam
- John, a citizen of Australia, applied for an e-visa for his trip to Vietnam. He was able to obtain his visa within 3 days and enjoyed a hassle-free entry into the country.
- Maria, a Canadian traveler, decided to apply for a visa on arrival for her trip to Vietnam. However, she faced delays and had to pay an additional processing fee due to incomplete documents.
- Jack, a British tourist, applied for a visa through the embassy as he was not eligible for an e-visa. He received his visa within a week and was able to enter Vietnam without any issues.
Comparison: Tourist Visa vs Other Visas for Vietnam
There are various types of visas available for those traveling to Vietnam, such as business, work, and diplomatic visas. Here is a comparison between a tourist visa and other visas for Vietnam:
| Tourist Visa | Business Visa | Work Visa |
|---|---|---|
| For tourism purposes only | For conducting business activities | For employment purposes |
| Valid for up to 30 days | Valid for up to 1 year with multiple entries | Valid for up to 2 years with multiple entries |
| Cannot be extended or converted to another type | Can be extended or converted to a longer-term visa | Can be extended or converted to a longer-term visa |
| No sponsor required | Sponsor or company invitation required | Sponsor or company invitation required |
Advices for Tourist Visa for Vietnam
- Apply for your visa well in advance to avoid any last-minute issues.
- Make sure to have all necessary documents and meet the requirements before applying.
- Check the validity of your passport to ensure it will not expire during your stay in Vietnam.
- Do not overstay your visa as this can result in fines, deportation, and difficulties in future travels.
- If you face any issues with your visa, seek help from the nearest embassy or consulate.
FAQs about Tourist Visa for Vietnam
How long does it take to get a tourist visa for Vietnam?
The processing time for a tourist visa for Vietnam can range from a few days to a few weeks depending on the application method.
Can I extend my tourist visa in Vietnam?
A tourist visa for Vietnam cannot be extended or converted to another type. If you need to stay longer, you will need to exit and re-enter the country.
Do I need a sponsor for a tourist visa for Vietnam?
No, a sponsor is not required for a tourist visa for Vietnam. However, you may need a letter of invitation if applying through the embassy or for a visa on arrival.
Can I enter Vietnam from any entry point with an e-visa?
No, you can only enter Vietnam through one of the designated 33 entry points with an e-visa. Be sure to check the list before applying.
Is there a fee for visa on arrival for Vietnam?
Yes, there may be additional fees for a visa on arrival, such as processing fees from the tour agency or company providing the pre-approval letter.
Conclusion
Obtaining a tourist visa for Vietnam is a simple process that can be done online or through the embassy. It is important to meet all requirements and apply well in advance to ensure a smooth entry into the country. With this guide, we hope to have provided all the necessary information for a stress-free trip to Vietnam. Enjoy your travels!
