All You Need To Know About A Vietnam Tourist Visa In 2019
UPDATED ON 27 May 2019: The 6 months and 1 year visas are temporarily not available for non-US citizens.
Until recently there have been three methods of applying for a Vietnam visa : a Visa on Arrival (VOA) via online agencies ; e-visa for a limited number of nationalities ; or visa via a Vietnamese embassy or consulate.
1. Visa-exempted nationalities
- The visa exemption period will be effective from 1 July 2018 to 30 June 2021.
- The length of stay allowed is and will remain for 15 days.
- THEIR ARRIVAL DATE DOES NOT FALL WITHIN 30 DAYS FOLLOWING EXIT DATE OF THEIR LAST STAY IN VIETNAM WITH VISA EXEMPTION.
Exception for Vietnam visa exemption policy for those to Phu Quoc island :
Those directly traveling to Phu Quoc Island are exempted from Vietnam visa for up to 30 days there. In case they wish to stay there for over 30 days or wish to travel to other localities, they will get the visa issued right on the spot by the Immigration Department.
2. Types of visa
- E-visa
E-visa can be applied online at www.evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn. Please note that the result does not arrive automatically by email, you must go get it yourself on the website.
- Visa on Arrival (VOA)
- Contact the travel agency to proceed with the request for prior authorization from the Immigration Department of Vietnam.
- Receive the visa approval letter by email (taking up to 3-5 working days).
- Prepare this letter printed + 2 passport photos + cash for the stamping fee (US$25 for a visa 1-3 months single entry's type, US$50 for a visa 1-3 months multiple entry's type) at the arrival airport.
Visa via an Embassy or Consulate
You can also obtain visa through Vietnamese embassies and consulates around the world, but fees are normally much higher than using a visa agent and (depending on the country) the process can be slow. It takes 7 to 10 business days for any request to the embassy. For further formalities, please contact the Vietnamese Embassy in your country. The list of diplomatic representations of Vietnam in abroad is also available on our website.
Embassies and General Consulates of Vietnam in America
Embassies and General Consulates of Vietnam in Europe
Embassies and General Consulates of Vietnam in Asia - Oceania
3. Visa Extension
4. Other tips
The (very complicated) visa situation has recently changed for many nationalities. Always double-check visa requirements before you travel as policies change regularly.
Sincerely yours & see you soon!
GALATOURIST since 2005.