Are you thinking of visiting Vietnam but concerned about the visa process? Don’t worry, Vietnam provides a convenient solution for travelers – the visa on arrival. This straightforward process enables you to get your visa when you arrive at one of Vietnam’s international airports. In this blog post, we will guide you through the steps of getting an urgent Vietnam visa on arrival and why it is the best option for your travel plans.
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Why Choose Vietnam Visa on Arrival?
Before diving into the details of the visa on arrival process, let’s understand why it is the preferred choice for many travelers. Here are some reasons why you should choose a Vietnam visa on arrival:
Convenience and Time-Saving
One major benefit of a visa on arrival is how convenient it is. You can easily apply for your visa online from any location, which saves you time and hassle. Unlike regular visas, you don’t need to go to an embassy or consulate to apply. This is particularly advantageous for people residing in countries that don’t have a Vietnamese embassy or consulate.
Cost-Effective
Another reason to opt for a visa on arrival is its cost-effectiveness. The fees for a visa on arrival are usually lower than traditional visas, making it a budget-friendly option for travelers. Moreover, you only pay the visa stamping fee upon arrival, which is significantly less than the full visa fee.
Flexibility
A visa on arrival also offers flexibility in terms of travel plans. You can apply for the visa at any time, even if your travel dates change. Additionally, you can choose the duration of your stay in Vietnam, ranging from 1 month to 3 months, depending on your needs.
No Need for Original Documents
Unlike traditional visas, you do not need to submit original documents for a visa on arrival. All you need is a digital copy of your passport and a few other documents, which can be easily uploaded during the online application process.
Fast Processing Time
Visa on arrival processing is typically quicker than standard visas. In most instances, you’ll get your visa approval letter in 2-3 business days, which is especially advantageous for those requiring an urgent visa for Vietnam travel.
Valid for All International Airports
A visa on arrival is valid for all international airports in Vietnam, including Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and Nha Trang. This gives you the flexibility to choose your point of entry and plan your trip accordingly.
How to Apply for an Urgent Vietnam Visa on Arrival?
Now that you know why a visa on arrival is the best option for your travel plans, let’s dive into the process of obtaining one. Here are the steps to apply for an urgent Vietnam visa on arrival:
Step 1: Fill Out the Online Application Form
The first step is to fill out the online application form for a visa on arrival. You can find the form on the website of the Vietnam Immigration Department or through a reputable visa agency. The form will require you to provide personal information, such as your name, passport details, and travel dates.
Step 2: Pay the Visa Processing Fee
After filling out the application form, you will be required to pay the visa processing fee. This fee varies depending on the type of visa and the duration of your stay. You can make the payment using a credit or debit card, PayPal, or bank transfer.
Step 3: Receive Your Visa Approval Letter
Once your payment is processed, you will receive a visa approval letter via email within 2-3 business days. This letter serves as proof that your visa has been approved and allows you to board your flight to Vietnam.
Step 4: Prepare Required Documents
Before you get on your flight, ensure that you have all the necessary documents ready for your visa upon arrival. These should consist of a printed version of your visa approval letter, a filled-out entry and exit form, a passport-sized photo, and the cash needed for the visa stamping fee.
Step 5: Get Your Visa Stamped Upon Arrival
Upon arrival at one of Vietnam’s international airports, head to the visa on arrival counter and present your documents. The immigration officer will verify your information and stamp your visa onto your passport. Congratulations, you are now ready to explore Vietnam!
Documents Required for an Urgent Vietnam Visa on Arrival
To successfully obtain a visa on arrival, you will need to prepare the following documents:
Passport
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into Vietnam. It should also have at least two blank pages for the visa stamp.
Digital Copy of Passport
You will need to upload a digital copy of your passport during the online application process. Make sure the copy is clear and includes your personal details and photo.
Visa Approval Letter
The visa approval letter is issued by the Vietnam Immigration Department and serves as proof that your visa has been approved. You will receive this letter via email after completing the online application and paying the processing fee.
Entry and Exit Form
You can download the entry and exit form from the website of the Vietnam Immigration Department or fill it out upon arrival at the airport. This form requires you to provide personal information, such as your name, passport details, and travel dates.
Passport-Sized Photo
You will need to submit one passport-sized photo (4×6 cm) upon arrival at the airport. The photo should be taken within the last 6 months and show your full face with a white background.
Visa Stamping Fee
The visa stamping fee is paid in cash upon arrival at the airport. The fee varies depending on the type of visa and the duration of your stay. Make sure to have the exact amount in USD or Vietnamese Dong.
Types of Vietnam Visa on Arrival
There are three types of visas available for those applying for a visa on arrival:
1. Single-Entry Visa
A single-entry visa allows you to enter Vietnam once and stay for a maximum of 3 months. This type of visa is suitable for those planning a short trip to Vietnam.
2. Multiple-Entry Visa
A multiple-entry visa allows you to enter and exit Vietnam multiple times within the validity period, which can range from 1 month to 3 months. This type of visa is ideal for those who need to travel in and out of Vietnam for business or personal reasons.
3. Business Visa
A business visa is required for those traveling to Vietnam for business purposes. It allows you to stay in Vietnam for up to 3 months and can be either single-entry or multiple-entry.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Is a visa on arrival available for all nationalities?
Yes, a visa on arrival is available for citizens of all countries, except for a few exceptions such as China, North Korea, and some African countries. Make sure to check the list of eligible countries before applying for a visa on arrival.
- Can I extend my visa on arrival?
Yes, you can extend your visa on arrival for an additional fee. The extension process can be done at the Vietnam Immigration Department or through a reputable visa agency.
- Can I enter Vietnam by land with a visa on arrival?
No, a visa on arrival is only valid for entry through one of Vietnam’s international airports. If you plan to enter Vietnam by land, you will need to apply for a traditional visa at the nearest embassy or consulate.
- How long does it take to get a visa on arrival?
The processing time for a visa on arrival is usually 2-3 business days. However, you can also opt for an urgent visa on arrival, which takes only 1 business day.
- Can I apply for a visa on arrival if I am already in Vietnam?
No, a visa on arrival can only be obtained upon arrival at one of Vietnam’s international airports. If you are already in Vietnam, you will need to apply for a visa extension or exit the country and re-enter with a new visa.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a visa on arrival is the best option for those planning a trip to Vietnam. It offers convenience, cost-effectiveness, flexibility, and fast processing time, making it the preferred choice for many travelers. By following the steps mentioned above, you can easily obtain an urgent Vietnam visa on arrival and enjoy your trip without any worries. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the beautiful country of Vietnam!
