Vietnam Visa On Arrival, which was a popular method for obtaining a visa to Vietnam, has been replaced by the e-visa system. With the discontinuation of the Visa On Arrival method, travelers now have two alternative options: Vietnam visa exemption and Visa Invitation Letter. Vietnam visa exemption allows citizens of certain countries to enter Vietnam without a visa, while the Visa Invitation Letter can be obtained through a local travel agency for those who are ineligible for visa exemptions or e-visas.
- Option 1: Vietnam Visa On Arrival
- Option 2: Vietnam visa exemption
- Option 3: Visa invitation letter
- Vietnam e-visa
Option 1: Vietnam Visa On Arrival (stopped)
For many years, Vietnam Visa On Arrival was the popular method of obtaining a visa for Vietnam. It offered options for 1 month or 3 months of stay, with choices for both single entry and multiple entries. The process involved obtaining a Letter of Approval through a travel agent, which allowed travelers to receive a Visa On Arrival at the immigration office upon arrival at the airport. This involved submitting the letter, along with a passport, photo, and payment of the visa fee.
However, this entire process has now been discontinued and replaced with the Vietnam e-visa system. While there are some differences between the two systems, the e-visa has overall improved the visa application process. With the e-visa, you only need to pay a fixed fee of $25 USD, and you can apply directly on the official website of the Vietnamese Immigration Service. Currently, the e-visa allows for a maximum stay of 30 days and only permits single entry, whereas the Visa On Arrival had an option for 3 months and multiple entries.
There have been discussions about extending the e-visa duration to 90 days, but it is uncertain when this change will be implemented. Despite these limitations, the e-visa system offers a more streamlined and convenient process, eliminating the need for a separate approval letter and payment on arrival.
Unfortunately, not all countries are eligible to obtain an e-visa for Vietnam. Currently, the e-visa option is available for citizens of 80 specific countries. If your country is not included in this list, you will need to get a “Visa invitation letter”.
Option 2: Vietnam visa exemption
Another option for travelers visiting Vietnam is the visa exemption program, which can be considered a form of visa on arrival. With this option, upon arrival in Vietnam, immigration officials will stamp your passport indicating the number of days you are permitted to stay in the country.
However, it’s important to note that the visa exemption program has certain limitations. Only citizens of 11 European countries, such as the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Russia, Belarus, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and Finland, are eligible to apply for this visa exemption. Unfortunately, countries like Australia, New Zealand, the United States, and Canada are not included in the visa exemption program.
Moreover, even for the eligible European countries, the maximum duration of stay under the visa exemption program is limited to 15 days. If you plan to stay longer or if your country is not eligible for visa exemption, obtaining an e-visa would be the most suitable option. The e-visa allows for a longer stay of up to 30 days and provides greater flexibility for travelers from various countries.
Option 3: Visa invitation letter
For individuals who are unable to obtain a Vietnam visa exemption or apply for a Vietnam e-visa, there is an alternative option available. These individuals can request a Visa Invitation Letter through a local travel agency. This Visa Invitation Letter serves as official authorization, allowing them to board their flight to Vietnam and receive a visa on arrival upon arrival at a Vietnamese port of entry.
The Visa Invitation Letter is typically arranged and provided by a trusted local travel agency. It acts as a sponsorship and endorsement from a Vietnamese organization or agency, affirming the traveler’s purpose and eligibility for entry into Vietnam. With the Visa Invitation Letter in hand, travelers can proceed with their journey and obtain their visa upon arrival in Vietnam.
Recommended visa: Vietnam e-visa
If you are a tourist planning to visit Vietnam, the Vietnam e-visa is the most recommended visa option. It is important to note that the previous method of obtaining a visa on arrival, known as Vietnam Visa On Arrival, has been discontinued. Therefore, the e-visa has become the preferred and convenient way to obtain a visa for Vietnam.
To apply for a Vietnam e-visa, you can refer to our comprehensive Vietnam E-Visa guide for detailed information and instructions. The e-visa application process can be done entirely online through the official website of the Vietnamese Immigration Service.
