Planning a trip to Vietnam? Understanding the various visa options and their costs is essential to ensure a smooth journey. Whether you’re visiting for tourism, business, or study, Vietnam offers several visa types to suit different travel needs. This guide provides a full breakdown of visa costs, helping you budget effectively and pick the right visa for your travel plans.
Types of Vietnam Tourist Visas & Their Requirements
If traveling to Vietnam as a tourist, you must choose between a single-entry visa and a multiple-entry visa. Both types are available for either one month or three months.
Single-entry Visa
This visa allows you to enter and leave Vietnam only once during the validity period. It’s perfect if you plan to stay continuously in Vietnam without visiting neighboring countries.
Multiple-entry Visa
This visa is ideal if you intend to hop in and out of Vietnam during your stay to explore other countries in Southeast Asia. It allows multiple entries into Vietnam during the validity period, offering greater flexibility for regional travelers. Each visa type requires a valid passport, a completed application form, and passport-sized photos. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay.
E-Visas
The E-Visa is a convenient option issued online by the Vietnam Immigration Department before your departure. Here’s what you need to know about E-Visas:
- Validity: E-Visas are valid for up to 30 days.
- Entry Points: You can enter Vietnam through any designated ports with an E-Visa, making it a flexible choice.
- Application Process: Apply online, upload the necessary documents, and pay the fee. The process typically takes up to 10 working days. You’ll receive a PDF visa that you should print and carry with you.
E-Visas streamline the process of entering Vietnam. They allow travelers to manage their visa applications entirely online.
Visas on Arrival
Visas on Arrival (VOA) are another popular choice, especially for those who need a visa quickly.
- Convenience: VOAs are issued at the immigration desk when you arrive in Vietnam. This option is best if you can’t secure a visa beforehand.
- Duration: They can be issued for stays of one to three months for tourists and up to a year for business travelers.
- Pre-Approval: Before you can receive a VOA, you must obtain an approval letter online through an agency. It is mandatory to show this letter at the VOA counter upon arrival.
- Procedure: To receive your visa, present your approval letter, passport, and photos and pay the stamping fee directly at the airport.
A Visa on Arrival offers a practical solution for travelers visiting Vietnam on short notice. However, obtaining the necessary approval letter requires some pre-planning.
Business Visas
A business visa is required for those traveling to Vietnam for business purposes. This visa allows for multiple entries and can be extended for longer periods depending on the nature of the business activities.
- Requirements: Along with a completed application and passport photos, you may need a sponsorship or an invitation letter from a company in Vietnam. Ensure your passport has at least six months of validity beyond your intended stay.
- Duration: Business visas can vary in duration. They are typically available from one month to one year, providing flexibility for short visits or longer business projects.
Student Visas
Student Visas are designed for those who plan to engage in academic studies in Vietnam. This visa is essential for anyone attending a university or educational institution within the country.
- Requirements: Applicants must provide admission letters from the educational institution in Vietnam. You must also fulfill the standard visa application requirements such as passport photos and a valid passport.
- Duration: The duration of a Student Visa generally aligns with the academic program length. This assures students can stay for the entirety of their course or semester.
Diplomatic and Official Visas
Diplomatic and Official Visas are issued to those traveling to Vietnam on official government business. These visas are typically reserved for diplomats, government officials, and sometimes for participants in international organizations.
- Requirements: An official letter from the relevant government or international organization is required, detailing the purpose and duration of the visit.
- Privileges: These visas often come with certain privileges such as reduced or waived visa fees and expedited processing.
The Costs of a Vietnam Tourist Visa
Understanding the costs associated with obtaining a tourist visa to Vietnam is crucial for budgeting your trip effectively.
Approval Letter Fee (Paid Online)
Before you can receive a Visa on Arrival, you must obtain an approval letter through an online application. The fee for this letter varies depending on how quickly you need it processed-ranging from normal service (2 business days) to urgent service (1 hour to 1 business day).
Visa Pre-Approval Letter Fee
| Types of Visa |
Normal Process (2 days)
1-3 pax
4-6 pax
7-9 pax
10 pax up
|
1 day | 4 hours | Stamping day |
|
Single Entry
1 month
3 month
|
$17
$15
$13
$10
$25
$23
$21
$19
|
$10
$10
|
$10
$10
|
$25
$25
|
|
Multiple Entry
1 month
3 month
|
$20
$18
$16
$14
$65
$63
$61
$69
|
$10
$10
|
$10
$10
|
$50
$50
|
Stamping Fee (Paid In Cash at Vietnam Airports)
Upon arrival in Vietnam, you must pay a stamping fee to apply the visa to your passport. The fees are as follows:
- $25 for a 1-month or 3-month single-entry visa.
- $50 for a 1-month or 3-month multiple-entry visa.
These fees ensure that all the necessary permissions are secured for your visit to Vietnam, whether for tourism, business, study, or diplomatic purposes.
Additional Costs to Consider
When planning your trip to Vietnam, remember several other costs might not be immediately obvious:
- Expedited Processing Fees: If you need your visa quickly, expedited services are available but come at a higher cost. These fees can vary significantly based on the urgency.
- Agency Fees: Using a visa service or agency can simplify the process, especially for complex visa types like business or student visas. These services charge fees in addition to standard visa costs.
- Medical and Travel Insurance: While not directly related to visa costs, it’s wise to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, as it’s often required.
- Miscellaneous Costs: Don’t forget more minor expenses like postage for sending documents or courier fees if you’re dealing with physical paperwork.
Pro Tips on How to Save Money for Your Vietnam Visa
Saving money on your Vietnam visa application can be accomplished with a few strategic moves.
- Choose the Right Visa Type: Selecting the correct visa for your travel needs can prevent overpaying. For instance, if you don’t plan on leaving and re-entering Vietnam, a single-entry visa is more cost-effective than a multiple-entry visa.
- Apply Early: Avoid the higher fees associated with expedited processing by applying for your visa well ahead of your travel dates.
- Use Trusted Agencies: While using an agency involves a fee, ensure it’s reputable. Trusted agencies can prevent unnecessary costs by confirming your application is correct the first time around.
- Avoid Hidden Fees: Be clear about all the costs involved upfront. Ask your agency or check the official visa website to clarify all fees, from processing to stamping, to avoid surprises.
FAQs
Can I Get a Refund if My Visa Application Is Denied?
Typically, visa fees are non-refundable, regardless of the application’s outcome. You must check the refund policy directly with the visa service or governmental authority you’re applying through. You must be aware that you may not get some fees back.
What Documents Are Required for a Vietnam Visa Application?
Required documents usually include a valid passport, a completed application form, passport-sized photos, and additional items like approval letters or invitations.
How Long Does It Take to Process a Vietnam Visa?
Processing times vary. E-visas usually take a few days, while Visas on Arrival might require a pre-approval that can also take a few days. Always check the latest processing times to plan accordingly.