Since the end of 2017, getting to Vietnam has been made simpler and more convenient with the launch of the electronic visa (e-Visa) system. Tailored to streamline visa processes for visitors from visa-exempt nations, the e-Visa removes the necessity for travelers to seek a visa from an embassy or consulate before their journey.With this online system, applicants can quickly and easily obtain an Vietnam e-Visa within a few minutes from the comfort of their homes.
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Eligibility for Vietnam E-Visa
Before applying for a Vietnam e-Visa, it is important to determine if you are eligible for this type of visa. Here are the requirements that must be met in order to apply for a Vietnam e-Visa:
List of Eligible Countries for E-Visa Requirements
First, you should verify if your country is among those that require an e-Visa for Vietnam. Currently, there are 80 countries eligible for a Vietnam e-Visa, including prominent nations like the United States, Canada, Australia, and various European countries. The complete list can be found on the Vietnam Immigration Department’s official website.
Passport Validity and Blank Pages
Your passport must have at least 6 months of validity from the date of your intended entry to Vietnam. This means that if you plan to enter Vietnam on June 1st, your passport must be valid until at least December 1st. Additionally, your passport must have at least one blank page available for the visa stamp.
Required Documents for Vietnam E-Visa
Once you have determined your eligibility for a Vietnam e-Visa, the next step is to prepare the required documents. Here is a list of the documents that you will need to apply for a Vietnam e-Visa:
Clear Copy of Passport Bio Data Page
You will need to provide a clear copy of the bio data page of your passport. This is the page that contains your personal information, photo, and passport number. Make sure that the copy is legible and in color.
Digital Photograph
You must also submit a recent digital photo taken within the past 6 months. The photo needs to adhere to specific size and format guidelines outlined on the Vietnam Immigration Department’s official website. It’s crucial to closely follow these requirements, as any deviation could lead to your application being denied.
Valid Email Address
You will need a valid email address in order to receive the e-Visa approval letter. This letter will be sent to you via email once your application has been processed and approved. Make sure to check your email regularly and also check your spam folder to ensure that you do not miss the approval letter.
Method of Payment
You need to pay the e-Visa fee online with a credit card or Paypal. The fee depends on the visa type and length of stay. You can see the complete fee list on the Vietnam Immigration Department’s official website.
How to Apply for a Vietnam E-Visa
Now that you have all the required documents, it is time to start the application process. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a Vietnam e-Visa:
Access Official Website
The first step is to visit the official website of the Vietnam Immigration Department: https://immigration.gov.vn/. Once you are on the homepage, select “E-Visa Online Portal” from the top menu.
Start Application
Click on the “Apply E-Visa” button on the home page. This will take you to the application form where you will need to fill in your personal information, travel details, and upload the required documents. Make sure to double-check all the information before submitting your application.
Pay E-Visa Fee
After submitting your application, you will be directed to the payment page. Here, you can choose to pay using a credit card or Paypal. Once the payment is successful, you will receive a confirmation email.
Receive E-Visa Approval Letter
Within 3 business days, you will receive an email with your e-Visa approval letter attached. Print out this letter and keep it with you when traveling to Vietnam. You will need to present it at the immigration checkpoint upon arrival.
Frequently Asked Questions about Vietnam E-Visa
- How long does it take to process a Vietnam e-Visa?
The processing time for a Vietnam e-Visa is usually 3 business days. However, it may take longer in some cases, so it is recommended to apply at least one week before your intended date of travel.
- Can I enter Vietnam through any port of entry with an e-Visa?
No, you can only enter Vietnam through certain ports of entry with an e-Visa. These include international airports, land border checkpoints, and seaports. You can find the full list on the official website of the Vietnam Immigration Department.
- Can I extend my stay in Vietnam with an e-Visa?
No, the e-Visa cannot be extended. If you wish to stay in Vietnam for longer than the duration stated on your e-Visa, you will need to apply for a visa extension at the nearest immigration office.
- Can I use my e-Visa for multiple entries into Vietnam?
No, the e-Visa is only valid for a single entry into Vietnam. If you plan to leave and re-enter Vietnam during your trip, you will need to apply for a new e-Visa or a different type of visa.
- Is the e-Visa refundable if my application is rejected?
No, the e-Visa fee is non-refundable even if your application is rejected. Make sure to carefully follow all the requirements and guidelines to avoid any potential rejections.
Conclusion
The introduction of the Vietnam e-Visa has made it much easier for travelers from eligible countries to visit this beautiful country. With a simple online application process and quick processing time, obtaining a Vietnam e-Visa has never been more convenient. Just make sure to carefully follow all the requirements and guidelines to ensure a smooth and hassle-free application process. Happy travels!
