If youβre a Costa Rican citizen planning to visit Vietnam, obtaining a visa is required before entry. As of 2025, there are two main ways for travelers from Costa Rica to get a Vietnam visa: E-Visa (Electronic Visa) and Visa on Arrival (VOA). Below is a complete step-by-step guide to help you choose the best option for your trip.
βοΈ Option 1: Apply for a Vietnam E-Visa (Recommended)
Costa Rican passport holders are eligible for Vietnamβs e-visa system. This is the most convenient and popular choice for tourists and business travelers.
β Key Features:
- Valid for 30, 60, or 90 days
- Available for single or multiple entry
- Can be used at airports, land borders, and seaports
π Requirements:
- Passport valid for at least 6 months
- At least 2 blank pages
- A digital passport-sized photo
- A scan of the passport bio page
π Processing Time:
- Standard: 3β5 working days
- Urgent: 1β2 working days (extra service fee applies)
π° Fees:
- Ranges from $48 to $105 USD, depending on visa type and urgency
π οΈ How to Apply:
- Prepare passport and digital documents
- Fill in the online application form
- Upload required images and passport scan
- Pay the visa service fee
- Receive the approved e-visa by email
- Print it and present it upon arrival in Vietnam
Tip: Always double-check personal details before submission to avoid delays.
π¬ Option 2: Get a Visa on Arrival (VOA) β For Air Travelers Only
This method is available only if you arrive in Vietnam by plane. Youβll need to get a pre-approved visa letter before traveling.
π How It Works:
- Apply online for a Visa Approval Letter
- Receive the letter via email (in 1β3 working days)
- Print it and bring 2 passport-sized photos
- Upon arrival at a Vietnam international airport, submit documents at the Visa on Arrival counter
- Pay the stamping fee:
- $25 USD for single entry
- $50 USD for multiple entries
- Get your visa stamped into your passport
Note: VOA is not valid for land or sea entry.
β Important Information for Costa Rican Travelers
- No Vietnamese Embassy in Costa Rica: Visa applications must be made online or through an agency. Embassy-based applications are available in nearby countries if needed.
- Passport Rules: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel date with 2 blank pages.
- Travel Insurance: Strongly recommended for safety and entry convenience