Navigating Vietnam: Your Essential Visa Application Guide (2025 Update)

Vietnam, a land of breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine, beckons travelers from across the globe. Before you immerse yourself in its wonders, understanding the visa requirements is crucial. This comprehensive guide will walk you through Vietnam's visa application options, including e-visa, Visa On Arrival (VOA), and visa letters, highlight visa-free countries. 

1. Vietnam's E-Visa: The Convenient Choice

The Vietnam E-visa has emerged as the most popular and convenient option for many travelers. It's an electronic visa issued by the Vietnam Immigration Department, allowing you to apply and receive your visa entirely online.

Key Features of the E-Visa:

► Eligibility: Citizens from all countries are currently eligible to apply for a Vietnam E-visa.

► Validity: E-visas are typically valid for a maximum of 90 days, and can be for single or multiple entries.

► Application Process:

1. Online Application: Visit the official Vietnam National Electronic Visa system website (evisa.gov.vn).

2. Upload Documents: You'll need a clear portrait photo (4x6cm, white background, no glasses) and a scan of your passport data page.

3. Fill Information: Accurately provide personal details, passport information, intended entry/exit dates, and proposed entry/exit checkpoints.

4. Payment: Pay the e-visa fee online (typically $25 USD for single entry, $50 USD for multiple entry).

5. Receive E-visa: After processing (usually 3-5 working days, but can be longer), you'll receive your e-visa via email. Print it out for your travel.

► Entry/Exit Points: E-visas are valid for entry and exit through designated international airports, land border gates, and sea ports. Ensure your chosen entry/exit points are on the official list.

2. Visa On Arrival (VOA): For Air Travelers with Pre-Approval

Vietnam Visa On Arrival (VOA) is another option, primarily for those arriving by air. Unlike some other countries where you can simply show up and get a visa, Vietnam's VOA requires a pre-approved "visa approval letter" obtained before your departure.

How VOA Works:

♦ Pre-Approval Letter: You must apply for and obtain an official visa approval letter from a licensed travel agency in Vietnam (like Threeland Travel). This letter, issued by the Vietnam Immigration Department, acts as permission to board your flight and collect your visa upon arrival.

♦ Upon Arrival: At one of Vietnam's international airports (e.g., Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang), you will present your approval letter, completed entry/exit form (Form NA1), passport-sized photos, valid passport, and pay a stamping fee in cash to receive your visa stamp.

♦ Processing Time: Obtaining the approval letter can take 2-5 working days, with urgent services available for faster processing (e.g., 2-4 working hours).

♦ Limitations: VOA is strictly for travelers arriving by air. It is not available for land or sea border crossings.

3. Visa Letter: Beyond Tourist Visas

For specific purposes like business, work, or longer stays, a visa letter (also known as an invitation letter or sponsorship letter) might be required. This letter is issued by a sponsoring organization or individual in Vietnam and is crucial for applying for a visa at a Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate in your home country.

When a Visa Letter is Needed:

⇒ When your purpose of visit is not purely tourism.

⇒ For visa types not covered by e-visa or VOA (e.g., specific work permits, long-term business visas).

⇒ If your nationality is not eligible for e-visa (though e-visa is widely available now).

4. Countries with Vietnam Visa Exemption (Free Visa to Vietnam)

Vietnam offers unilateral and bilateral visa exemptions to citizens of certain countries, allowing them to enter and stay for a specified period without a visa. This policy is subject to change, so always check the latest regulations.

As of July 2025, some notable countries with visa exemptions include (but are not limited to):

► 45-day visa exemption (effective until March 14, 2028): Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom, Russia, Japan, South Korea, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, and Finland.

► Other exemptions (varying durations): Many ASEAN member countries (e.g., Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Philippines - usually 30 days), Belarus (30 days), and for specific purposes like Phu Quoc Island (30 days for any nationality with direct travel to the island).

► Special programs: APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) holders can enjoy visa-free stays of up to 60 days.

Important Notes for Visa-Free Entry:

♦ Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your entry date.

♦ You must have proof of onward travel or a return ticket.

♦ You must not fall under any cases prohibited from entry by Vietnamese law.

♦ For unilateral exemptions, you generally need to have been outside Vietnam for at least 30 days since your last departure (though this rule is often waived for the longer exemptions).

5. Restricted Countries / Specific Cases

While Vietnam has significantly opened up its visa policy, travelers from certain countries or those with complex travel histories might face additional scrutiny or require specific procedures. These can include:

• Countries requiring additional screening: Some nationalities may undergo extended manual reviews, involving verification of documents, travel history, and other details. This can lead to longer processing times.

• Specific cases: Individuals with a history of deportation from Vietnam, those with certain medical conditions, or those providing false information in their application may be denied entry.

It's crucial to be honest and thorough in your application. If you have any concerns or your nationality is not on the common lists, it's always best to consult the nearest Vietnamese Embassy/Consulate or a reputable travel agency.

Your Seamless Journey with Threeland Travel's Visa Service

Navigating the complexities of visa applications can be daunting. This is where Threeland Travel, with over two decades of experience as a leading Destination Management Company (DMC) in Indochina, steps in. Based in Hanoi, Vietnam, Threeland Travel offers comprehensive visa assistance to ensure your trip to Vietnam is hassle-free.

Why choose Threeland Travel for your Vietnam visa?

Expert Guidance: Our in-country consultants possess profound knowledge of Vietnam's latest immigration policies and requirements, ensuring your application is accurate and complete.

► Efficient Processing: We can assist with obtaining your visa approval letter for Visa On Arrival quickly, often within 3 working days, and even offer urgent processing for last-minute travelers.

► Hassle-Free Experience: Instead of grappling with complicated embassy procedures, simply provide us with copies of your passport, and we'll handle the rest.

► Support for Complex Cases: Threeland Travel is well-equipped to arrange visas for nationalities that might typically face more stringent requirements or in emergency situations.

► Fast-Track Service: For a truly smooth arrival, inquire about our fast-track service, where you'll be met at the aircraft gate and assisted with visa stamping without waiting in long lines.

At Threeland Travel, we are committed to making your journey to Vietnam as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Beyond visa services, we offer tailor-made tours, hotel bookings, transportation, and a range of add-on services to complete your perfect Vietnamese adventure.

Ready to explore Vietnam? Contact Threeland Travel today for personalized visa assistance and start planning your unforgettable trip!