Vietnam E-visa: A Comprehensive Guide to Application and Approval
Are you planning a trip to Vietnam soon? If so, you may need to obtain a visa before your arrival. One option available is to apply for an e-visa for Vietnam. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about obtaining a Vietnam e-visa, including the application process, requirements, cost, and processing times.
Table of Contents
What Is a Vietnam E-Visa?
An e-visa for Vietnam is an electronic visa that allows travelers to enter Vietnam for tourism or business purposes. It is only available to citizens of specific countries and is valid for a maximum stay of 30 days. The e-visa is a single-entry visa, which means that once you leave Vietnam, you will need to obtain a new visa if you plan to re-enter.
Vietnam E-Visa vs. Visa on Arrival
Vietnam offers two types of visas: e-visas and visa on arrival (VOA). While both options allow travelers to enter Vietnam, there are some important differences to consider:
Application Process
The application process for a Vietnam e-visa is entirely online and can be completed from anywhere with internet access. On the other hand, a VOA requires applicants to obtain a letter of approval from a Vietnamese sponsor before arriving in the country.
Processing Time
The processing time for a Vietnam e-visa is typically 3-5 business days. In contrast, a VOA can take up to 2 business days to process upon arrival in Vietnam.
Cost
The cost of a Vietnam e-visa varies depending on the applicant’s nationality but ranges from $25 to $50. A VOA costs approximately $25-$50 plus an additional stamping fee upon arrival.
Photo Requirements
Both the e-visa and VOA require a passport-style photo as part of the application. However, the requirements for the photo can vary, so be sure to double-check the specific requirements when applying.
Eligible Countries
The e-visa is currently available to citizens of over 80 countries, while a VOA is available to citizens of most countries.
Vietnam E-Visa Application Process
If you decide to apply for a Vietnam e-visa, you can do so by following these steps:
- Visit the official government website for Vietnam e-visas.
- Click on “Apply Now” and fill out the online application form.
- Upload a scanned copy of your passport’s main page and a passport-style photo.
- Pay the application fee using a credit or debit card.
- Wait for your e-visa to be processed (usually within 3-5 business days).
- Print out a copy of your e-visa to bring with you when you travel to Vietnam.
It is essential to note that the information provided on the application must match the details on the applicant’s passport. Any discrepancies could result in the rejection of the e-visa application.
Vietnam E-Visa Extension
If you need more time in Vietnam than the 30 days allowed by the e-visa, you may be able to extend your stay. To do so, you will need to visit a local immigration office and apply for an extension. However, the process can be lengthy and complicated, so it’s best to plan your trip accordingly to avoid any issues.
Vietnam E-Visa for Business
If you are traveling to Vietnam for business purposes, you can also apply for an e-visa. In addition to the standard requirements for the e-visa, applicants must provide documentation such as a letter of invitation from a Vietnamese company or organization.
Vietnam E-Visa Cost
The cost of a Vietnam e-visa varies depending on the applicant’s nationality. Here are some examples:
- US citizens: $25
- UK citizens: $30
- Canadian citizens: $25
- Australian citizens: $25
- Indian citizens: $40
Vietnam E-Visa Processing Time
The processing time for a Vietnam e-visa is typically 3-5 business days. However, in some cases, the review process may take longer if additional documentation is required or if there are errors on the application.
Conclusion
A Vietnam e-visa can be a convenient and cost-effective option for those planning to travel to Vietnam for tourism or business purposes. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that you have all the information you need to apply for and obtain your e-visa with ease.
FAQs
- How long does it take to obtain a Vietnam e-visa?
- The processing time for a Vietnam e-visa is typically 3-5 business days.
- Can I extend my stay in Vietnam with an e-visa?
- Yes, but the process can be complicated and time-consuming.
- What is the cost of a Vietnam e-visa?
- The cost of a Vietname-visa varies depending on the applicant’s nationality, ranging from $25 to $50.
- Is a Vietnam e-visa available to citizens of all countries?
- No, the e-visa is currently available to citizens of over 80 countries.
- Can I apply for a Vietnam e-visa if I am traveling for business purposes?
- Yes, but you will need to provide additional documentation such as a letter of invitation from a Vietnamese company or organization.