Starting from the close of 2017, traveling to Vietnam has become easier and more convenient due to the introduction of the electronic visa (e-Visa) system. This system is designed to simplify visa procedures for visitors from countries exempt from visas, eliminating the need for travelers to apply for a visa from an embassy or consulate prior to their trip. With this online system, applicants can quickly and easily obtain an Vietnam e-Visa within a few minutes from the comfort of their homes.
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Eligibility for Vietnam E-Visa
Before applying for a Vietnam e-Visa, it is important to determine if you are eligible for this type of visa. Here are the requirements that must be met in order to apply for a Vietnam e-Visa:
List of Eligible Countries for E-Visa Requirements
Initially, you need to confirm if your country is one of those that necessitate an e-Visa for Vietnam. Presently, there are 80 countries that qualify for a Vietnam e-Visa, which includes major nations such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and several European countries. The comprehensive list is available on the official website of the Vietnam Immigration Department.
Passport Validity and Blank Pages
Your passport needs to be valid for at least 6 months from your planned entry into Vietnam. For example, if you intend to enter on June 1st, your passport should be valid until at least December 1st. Also, you must have at least one blank page in your passport for the visa stamp.
Required Documents for Vietnam E-Visa
Once you have determined your eligibility for a Vietnam e-Visa, the next step is to prepare the required documents. Here is a list of the documents that you will need to apply for a Vietnam e-Visa:
Clear Copy of Passport Bio Data Page
You will need to provide a clear copy of the bio data page of your passport. This is the page that contains your personal information, photo, and passport number. Make sure that the copy is legible and in color.
Digital Photograph
You also need to provide a recent digital photograph taken in the last 6 months. The photo must meet the specific size and format criteria specified on the Vietnam Immigration Department’s official website. It’s essential to carefully comply with these guidelines, as failure to do so could result in your application being rejected.
Valid Email Address
You will need a valid email address in order to receive the e-Visa approval letter. This letter will be sent to you via email once your application has been processed and approved. Make sure to check your email regularly and also check your spam folder to ensure that you do not miss the approval letter.
Method of Payment
You need to pay the e-Visa fee online with a credit card or Paypal. The fee depends on the visa type and length of stay. You can see the complete fee list on the Vietnam Immigration Department’s official website.
How to Apply for a Vietnam E-Visa
Now that you have all the required documents, it is time to start the application process. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a Vietnam e-Visa:
Access Official Website
The first step is to visit the official website of the Vietnam Immigration Department: https://immigration.gov.vn/. Once you are on the homepage, select “E-Visa Online Portal” from the top menu.
Start Application
Click on the “Apply E-Visa” button on the home page. This will take you to the application form where you will need to fill in your personal information, travel details, and upload the required documents. Make sure to double-check all the information before submitting your application.
Pay E-Visa Fee
After submitting your application, you will be directed to the payment page. Here, you can choose to pay using a credit card or Paypal. Once the payment is successful, you will receive a confirmation email.
Receive E-Visa Approval Letter
Within 3 business days, you will receive an email with your e-Visa approval letter attached. Print out this letter and keep it with you when traveling to Vietnam. You will need to present it at the immigration checkpoint upon arrival.
Frequently Asked Questions about Vietnam E-Visa
- How long does it take to process a Vietnam e-Visa?
The processing time for a Vietnam e-Visa is usually 3 business days. However, it may take longer in some cases, so it is recommended to apply at least one week before your intended date of travel.
- Can I enter Vietnam through any port of entry with an e-Visa?
No, you can only enter Vietnam through certain ports of entry with an e-Visa. These include international airports, land border checkpoints, and seaports. You can find the full list on the official website of the Vietnam Immigration Department.
- Can I extend my stay in Vietnam with an e-Visa?
No, the e-Visa cannot be extended. If you wish to stay in Vietnam for longer than the duration stated on your e-Visa, you will need to apply for a visa extension at the nearest immigration office.
- Can I use my e-Visa for multiple entries into Vietnam?
No, the e-Visa is only valid for a single entry into Vietnam. If you plan to leave and re-enter Vietnam during your trip, you will need to apply for a new e-Visa or a different type of visa.
- Is the e-Visa refundable if my application is rejected?
No, the e-Visa fee is non-refundable even if your application is rejected. Make sure to carefully follow all the requirements and guidelines to avoid any potential rejections.
Conclusion
The introduction of the Vietnam e-Visa has made it much easier for travelers from eligible countries to visit this beautiful country. With a simple online application process and quick processing time, obtaining a Vietnam e-Visa has never been more convenient. Just make sure to carefully follow all the requirements and guidelines to ensure a smooth and hassle-free application process. Happy travels!