Are you an Indian citizen planning to visit Vietnam? If so, you may want to learn about the visa regulations and procedures. As an Indian passport holder, you have the option to obtain a visa on arrival (VOA) in Vietnam, which means you can get your visa when you arrive at any of Vietnam’s international airports. In this article, we will provide you with all the information you need to know about obtaining a visa on arrival in Vietnam as an Indians citizen.
Table of Contents
What is a Visa on Arrival?
Understanding VOA
A visa on arrival is a travel permit that enables entry into a country upon reaching the designated airport or port. It’s usually granted for short visits like tourism or business. In Vietnam, the VOA allows a stay of up to 30 days. Therefore, if your visit to Vietnam is less than 30 days, you can opt for a VOA instead of obtaining a regular visa from the Vietnamese embassy in your home country.
Eligibility for VOA in Vietnam
As mentioned before, Indian citizens are eligible for a visa on arrival in Vietnam. However, there are a few eligibility criteria that you must meet. These include:
- You must hold a valid Indian passport with at least 6 months validity remaining.
- Your passport must have at least 2 blank pages for immigration stamps.
- You must have a confirmed flight ticket to leave Vietnam within 30 days.
- You must not be listed on the Vietnam Immigration Department’s list of ineligible travelers.
If you do not meet these eligibility criteria, you may need to apply for a traditional visa from the Vietnamese embassy in your home country.
How to Apply for a Visa on Arrival in Vietnam?
Step-by-Step Procedure
Applying for a visa on arrival in Vietnam is a simple and straightforward process. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
- Fill out the application form online: The first step is to fill out the VOA application form online. You can do this through a trusted travel agency or directly on the Vietnamese government’s immigration website.
- Make the payment: After submitting your application, you will be required to make the payment for the VOA processing fee. This fee varies depending on the type of visa you are applying for and the length of your stay in Vietnam.
- Receive the approval letter: Once your payment has been processed, you will receive an approval letter via email within 2-3 business days. This letter serves as proof that your VOA has been approved by the Vietnamese immigration authorities.
- Prepare necessary documents: Before leaving for Vietnam, make sure to prepare all necessary documents, including a printed copy of your approval letter, a completed entry-exit form, and two passport-sized photos.
- Present documents upon arrival: Upon arrival at one of Vietnam’s international airports (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, or Nha Trang), present your approval letter, entry-exit form, and other necessary documents at the visa on arrival counter. You will then have your photo taken and pay the stamping fee in cash.
- Receive your visa: After completing these steps, you will receive your visa on arrival, and you can proceed with entering Vietnam.
Required Documents
When applying for a visa on arrival in Vietnam, you will need to prepare the following documents:
- A completed online application form.
- A printed copy of your approval letter.
- A completed entry-exit form (available on the plane or at the airport).
- Two passport-sized photos.
- Stamping fee in cash (USD/VND).
Visa on Arrival Fees and Processing Time
The cost and processing time for a visa on arrival in Vietnam vary depending on the type of visa and your length of stay. Here is a breakdown of the fees you can expect to pay:
| Type of Visa | Processing Fee (USD) | Stamping Fee (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Single Entry | $25-$50 | $25 |
| Multiple Entry | $50-$95 | $50 |
The processing fee is paid online when submitting your application, while the stamping fee is paid in cash upon arrival at the airport.
As for the processing time, it usually takes 2-3 business days to receive your approval letter via email. However, some travel agencies offer an express service that can get your approval letter within 1 business day for an additional fee.
FAQs
What is the difference between a VOA and a traditional visa?
The main difference between a VOA and a traditional visa is the application process. A VOA can be obtained upon arrival at the designated airport, while a traditional visa must be obtained from the Vietnamese embassy in your home country before traveling.
Can I extend my VOA in Vietnam?
Yes, it is possible to extend your VOA in Vietnam for an additional 30 days. You can do this by applying for a visa extension at the Vietnam Immigration Department’s office.
Can I enter Vietnam by land with a VOA?
No, a VOA is only valid for entry by air at one of Vietnam’s international airports. If you plan to enter Vietnam by land, you will need to apply for a traditional visa from the Vietnamese embassy in your home country.
Is there a limit on the number of times I can enter Vietnam with a VOA?
A single-entry VOA allows for one entry and one exit from Vietnam within the specified time period. For multiple-entry VOAs, you can enter and exit Vietnam multiple times within the given time frame.
Can I use a VOA for business purposes?
Yes, you can use a VOA for both tourism and business purposes. However, if you are planning to stay for longer than 30 days or engage in work activities, you will need to apply for a traditional business visa.
Conclusion
In conclusion, as an Indian citizen, you are eligible for a visa on arrival in Vietnam. This is a convenient option for short trips to Vietnam and saves the hassle of applying for a traditional visa. As long as you meet the eligibility criteria and follow the application process, obtaining a VOA should be a smooth and straightforward process. We hope this comprehensive guide has provided you with all the information you need to know about obtaining a VOA in Vietnam.