Everything you need to know about getting a Vietnam visa as an Australian. Discover the visa options, eligibility criteria and application process.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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1. Do Australians need a visa for Vietnam?
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2. How to plan a perfect trip to Vietnam from Australia
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3. How to deal with the challenges and surprises of visiting Vietnam as an Australian
Have you ever dreamed of visiting Vietnam, the land of stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage and friendly people? If you are an Australian citizen, you might be wondering if you need a visa to enter this amazing country. Well, the answer is yes, but don't worry, it's not as complicated or expensive as you might think. In this post, we will explain everything you need to know about getting a Vietnam visa for Australian traveler.
We will also share with you some of the best tips and tricks on how to plan a perfect trip to Vietnam from Australia. So, if you are ready to discover one of the most fascinating and diverse destinations in Southeast Asia, keep reading and let's get started!
1. Do Australians need a visa for Vietnam?
The short answer is yes, you do need a visa to enter Vietnam as an Australian citizen. However, there are different types of visas that you can choose from depending on your purpose and duration of stay. Here are the main options:
- option 1: E-visa: This is an electronic visa that you can apply for online through the official website of the Vietnamese immigration department. It costs 25 USD and it is valid for 30 days and single entry. You can use it for tourism, business, study or visiting relatives. You will need to fill out an online form, upload a passport photo and a copy of your passport, and pay the fee with a credit card. You will receive an approval letter by email within 3 working days. You will need to print it out and show it at the immigration checkpoint when you arrive in Vietnam. This is the easiest and cheapest option for most travelers.
- option 2: Visa approval letter: This is a Vietnam visa for Australians that you will need to apply via a Tour operator like Threeland Travel for an approval letter before your trip. They will charge you an extra fee ranging from 6 to 20 USD depending on the service and urgency. You will receive the approval letter by email within 3-5 working days. You will need to print it out and bring it with you along with two passport photos and some cash in USD. You will need to fill out a form and pay the stamping fee at the visa on arrival counter when you land in Vietnam. This option is more flexible and convenient for longer stays or multiple entries.
- Option 3: Embassy visa: This is a visa that you can get from the Vietnamese embassy or consulate in Australia or any other country. It costs 70 AUD for single entry or 105 AUD for multiple entries, and it is valid for up to 90 days. You can use it for any purpose of visit. You will need to fill out an application form, provide a passport photo and a copy of your passport, and pay the fee by money order or bank cheque. You will need to submit your application by mail or in person at the embassy or consulate. You will receive your visa by mail or you can pick it up in person. This option is more secure and reliable, but it also takes more time and money.
As you can see, there are pros and cons for each Vietnam visa option for Australians. You will need to weigh them carefully and decide which one suits your needs and preferences best. We personally recommend the e-visa for most travelers as it is the simplest and most affordable way to get a visa for Vietnam. However, if you plan to stay longer than 30 days or visit multiple times, you might want to consider the visa on arrival or the embassy visa instead.
Visa approval letter: Threeland Travel can arrange visa letter for our clients about 3 working days. Contact team at [email protected].
2. How to plan a perfect trip to Vietnam from Australia
Vietnam is a diverse and beautiful destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you are looking for culture, history, nature, adventure, or relaxation, you will find it in Vietnam. But how do you plan a perfect trip to this amazing country from Australia? Here are some of the things you need to consider:
- When to visit: Vietnam has a tropical climate with four distinct seasons: spring (February to April), summer (May to August), autumn (September to November), and winter (December to January). The best time to visit Vietnam depends on your preferences and the regions you want to explore. Generally speaking, spring and autumn are the most pleasant and comfortable seasons, with moderate temperatures and low rainfall. Summer is hot and humid, with frequent showers and storms. Winter is cool and dry in the north, but warm and sunny in the south. You should also check the lunar calendar and avoid traveling during the Tet holiday (Vietnamese New Year), which usually falls in late January or early February. This is the busiest and most expensive time of the year, with crowded transport, limited services, and inflated prices.
- Where to go: Vietnam is a long and narrow country that stretches over 3,000 km from north to south. It has three main regions: the north, the central, and the south. Each region has its own unique features and attractions that you should not miss. Here are some of the highlights of each region:
- The north: This is where you can experience the cultural and historical richness of Vietnam. The capital city of Hanoi is a charming and vibrant metropolis that blends old and new. You can explore the Old Quarter, where you can see colonial buildings, ancient temples, and bustling markets. You can also visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, and the Hoan Kiem Lake. From Hanoi, you can take a day trip or an overnight cruise to Halong Bay, which is one of the most stunning natural wonders in the world. You can admire the thousands of limestone islands and caves that dot the emerald waters. You can also enjoy kayaking, swimming, hiking, and other activities. Another popular destination in the north is Sapa, which is a mountainous town that offers breathtaking views of rice terraces, valleys, and ethnic villages. You can trek, bike, or take a cable car to the Fansipan peak, which is the highest point in Vietnam.
- The central: This is where you can find some of the most scenic and diverse landscapes in Vietnam. It is where you can enjoy some of the best beaches, islands, and national parks in the country. You can start your journey in Da Nang, which is a modern and dynamic city that boasts a stunning coastline, a majestic bridge, and a giant statue of Buddha. You can also visit the Marble Mountains, which are a cluster of five hills that contain caves, pagodas, and sculptures. From Da Nang, you can head to Hoi An, which is a charming and romantic town that preserves the ancient architecture and culture of Vietnam. You can stroll along the lantern-lit streets, shop for souvenirs and tailor-made clothes, and sample some of the best cuisine in Vietnam. You can also relax on the nearby An Bang beach or take a boat ride to the Cham Islands. Another must-see destination in the central region is Hue, which is the former imperial capital of Vietnam. You can visit the Citadel, which is a complex of palaces, temples, and tombs that showcase the royal history and culture of Vietnam. You can also cruise along the Perfume River, which flows through the city and offers scenic views of nature and monuments.
- The south: This is where you can experience the modern and dynamic side of Vietnam. It is where you can find the largest and most cosmopolitan city in Vietnam: Ho Chi Minh City (also known as Saigon). This is a bustling and vibrant metropolis that offers a mix of history, culture, and entertainment. You can visit the War Remnants Museum, which displays the effects and aftermath of the Vietnam War. You can also see the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, and the Reunification Palace, which are some of the iconic landmarks of the city. You can also enjoy the nightlife, shopping, and dining options that the city has to offer. From Ho Chi Minh City, you can take a day trip or a tour to the Mekong Delta, which is a vast and fertile region that produces most of the rice and fruits in Vietnam. You can explore the canals, islands, and villages that make up this unique and colorful landscape. You can also visit the floating markets, where you can see the locals trade their goods on boats.
Vietnam has a lot to offer for travelers of all kinds. However, you don't have to see everything in one trip. You can choose the regions and destinations that interest you the most and plan your itinerary accordingly. You can also use some of the online tools and resources that can help you plan your trip more easily and efficiently.
3. How to deal with the challenges and surprises of visiting Vietnam as an Australian
Visiting Vietnam can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it can also be challenging and surprising at times. You might face some issues and difficulties that you are not used to or prepared for. You might also encounter some things that are different or unexpected from your perspective. Here are some of the challenges and surprises that you might encounter and how to deal with them:
- Language barrier: Although English is widely spoken in the major cities and tourist areas of Vietnam, you might still encounter some communication problems with the locals, especially in the rural areas or the less developed regions. You might find it hard to understand their accent, pronunciation, or grammar. You might also find it hard to express yourself clearly or accurately. You should try to learn some basic words and phrases in Vietnamese before your trip, such as greetings, numbers, directions, and common questions. You should also use gestures, pictures, or translation apps to help you communicate. You should also be patient, polite, and respectful when communicating with the locals.
- Culture shock: Although Vietnam is becoming more modern and open to the world, it still has a traditional and conservative culture that might differ from yours. You might find some of the customs, beliefs, or behaviors of the Vietnamese people strange, unfamiliar, or even offensive. You might also find some of the aspects of Vietnamese society challenging, such as the traffic, the pollution, the noise, or the bureaucracy. You should try to learn as much as you can about the culture and history of Vietnam before your trip, such as the etiquette, the values, and the norms. You should also try to adapt and adjust to the local environment and lifestyle as much as possible. You should also be tolerant, open-minded, and curious when encountering something new or different.
- Scams and safety: Although Vietnam is generally a safe and friendly country for travelers, you might still encounter some scams or dangers that might ruin your trip or harm you. You might encounter some dishonest or greedy people who might try to overcharge you, cheat you, or rob you. You might also encounter some health or environmental hazards that might cause you illness or injury. You should try to be alert and aware of your surroundings and your belongings at all times. You should also try to avoid some risky or suspicious situations or places, such as dark alleys, crowded markets, or unlicensed taxis. You should also follow some basic safety and hygiene rules, such as drinking bottled water, wearing sunscreen, and avoiding street food.
You have learned everything you need to know about visiting Vietnam as an Australian. You know how to get a Vietnam visa for Australians, how to plan a trip, how to enjoy your time, and how to deal with the challenges. You are ready to have a great and memorable experience in Vietnam. So, don't wait any longer. Book your Vietnam tours with Threeland Travel today. Just click on the link below and start your tour to Vietnam now.
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