Planning to get your Vietnam Visa on Arrival (VOA)? Great! It’s a popular and convenient option for many travelers entering Vietnam by air.
However, many applicants face delays or even denial at the airport due to avoidable mistakes.
Below are the most common mistakes with Vietnam VOA, and tips on how to avoid them for a smooth entry in 2025.
⚠️ Mistake 1: Not Getting the Approval Letter in Advance
Why it matters:
Many travelers wrongly assume they can just show up in Vietnam and get a visa.
In reality, you MUST have a pre-approved Visa Approval Letter before boarding your flight.
How to avoid:
✅ Apply in advance through a trusted service like VisaOnlineVietnam.com
✅ Print at least 2 copies of your approval letter before flying
⚠️ Mistake 2: Using VOA at Land or Sea Entry Points
Why it matters:
VOA is valid only at Vietnam’s international airports (e.g., Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang).
If you arrive by land or sea, you will be denied entry without an appropriate visa.
How to avoid:
✅ Only use VOA if flying
✅ If entering by land or cruise, apply for an e-Visa instead
⚠️ Mistake 3: Not Bringing Passport-Sized Photos
Why it matters:
You must submit two passport-sized photos (4×6 cm) at the VOA counter.
If you don’t bring them, you’ll face delays or additional charges at the airport.
How to avoid:
✅ Bring 2 printed photos with white background
✅ Don’t rely on airport photo booths (not always available)
⚠️ Mistake 4: Incomplete or Incorrect Entry/Exit Form (NA1)
Why it matters:
This form is required at the VOA desk. Errors or missing fields can delay your processing.
How to avoid:
✅ Download and fill out the NA1 form in advance (provided after approval letter)
✅ Double-check all fields — must match your passport exactly
⚠️ Mistake 5: Forgetting to Bring Cash for Stamping Fee
Why it matters:
Vietnamese immigration only accepts cash in USD for the stamping fee.
$25 USD – single entry
$50 USD – multiple entry
How to avoid:
✅ Bring the exact amount in clean, undamaged USD bills
✅ ATMs and cards are NOT accepted at the VOA counter
⚠️ Mistake 6: Errors in the Approval Letter
Why it matters:
If your name, passport number, or date of birth is incorrect, your visa can be rejected.
How to avoid:
✅ Double-check all information before confirming
✅ If you spot a mistake, request correction before flying
⚠️ Mistake 7: Booking Flights Without Time Buffer
Why it matters:
If your approval letter is delayed, you may miss your flight or be denied boarding.
How to avoid:
✅ Apply for the VOA letter at least 3–7 days before travel
✅ Choose urgent or emergency service at VisaOnlineVietnam.com if in a rush
Customers are handling visa applications to the Immigration officers (Noi Bai International Airport, Hanoi)
💡 Pro Tips for a Smooth Vietnam VOA Experience
✅ Apply early — don’t wait until the last minute
✅ Use a trusted agency with real support, like VisaOnlineVietnam.com
✅ Keep both digital and printed versions of all documents
✅ Have a backup plan, especially if traveling during holidays
✅ Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months on arrival
📞 Need Help with Your Vietnam Visa on Arrival?
Use the professional, fast, and secure service at:
🔗 VisaOnlineVietnam.com
📧 Email: sales@visaonlinevietnam.com
📱 WhatsApp: (+84) 968 18 77 18
✔️ Fast approval in 4–8 hours
✔️ 100% online
✔️ Trusted by travelers from 200+ countries
✔️ 24/7 customer support in English
🎯 Conclusion
Getting your Vietnam VOA is easy — if you prepare correctly. Avoid these common mistakes, follow the tips above, and enjoy your journey stress-free.
👉 Start your visa application now at VisaOnlineVietnam.com