Visa on Arrival: Everything You Need to Know

07/01/2025

Discover everything you need to know, from step-by-step instructions to important tips for a smooth Visa on Arrival application process. Start your Vietnam journey today with Le Travel ! Need a Vietnam eVisa urgently? We offer fast and reliable assistance for eVisa applications and other visa-related services.

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1. What is Visa on Arrival (VOA)

Visa on Arrival (VOA) is a convenient and efficient option for travelers visiting certain countries, including Vietnam. Unlike traditional visas, VOA allows eligible travelers to obtain their visa upon arrival at designated international airports. This service is particularly valuable for those with limited time to apply for a visa in advance or who are unable to access a consulate or embassy.
To acquire a VOA in Vietnam, travelers must first obtain an official approval letter from the Immigration Department. Upon arrival at an international airport such as Tan Son Nhat (Ho Chi Minh City), Noi Bai (Hanoi), or Da Nang, travelers present this letter, along with other required documents, to receive their visa.

To acquire a VOA in Vietnam, travelers must first obtain an official approval letter from the Immigration Department. Upon arrival at an international airport such as Tan Son Nhat (Ho Chi Minh City), Noi Bai (Hanoi), or Da Nang, travelers present this letter, along with other required documents, to receive their visa.

2. Eligibility for Visa on Arrival

As of August 15, 2023, Vietnam has expanded its e-visa program to citizens of all countries and territories. Despite this, the Visa on Arrival option remains available, particularly for travelers arriving by air. It’s important to note that VOA is only applicable for air travelers; those entering Vietnam by land or sea should obtain an e-visa or visa through a Vietnamese embassy or consulate.

Requirements for Visa on Arrival

To apply for a VOA, travelers need to prepare the following:

– Approval Letter: Obtain an official visa approval letter from the Vietnamese Immigration Department through a reputable travel agency before departure.

– Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay and has at least one blank visa page.

– Application Form: Complete the Vietnamese visa application form (Form NA1), which can often be filled out online or upon arrival.

– Photographs: Two recent passport-sized photos (4×6 cm) are typically required.

– Fees: Be prepared to pay the stamping fee upon arrival—$25 USD for a single-entry visa and $50 USD for a multiple-entry visa.

3. Pros and Cons of Visa on Arrival

Pros:

– Streamlined Process: VOA eliminates the need for lengthy visa application processes at embassies or consulates. Travelers can focus on planning their trips without worrying about visa delays.

– Convenience: Travelers can complete most of the process online and finalize their visa at the airport. This is especially helpful for those residing far from embassies.

– Flexibility: VOA allows for last-minute travel plans, as travelers can secure the approval letter within a few days.

Cons:

– Airport Delays: Processing times at the VOA counter can vary, leading to potential wait times upon arrival.

– Limited Entry Points: VOA is only available at certain international airports and not for land or sea entry.

– Mandatory Agency Requirement: Unlike other visa types, VOA must be processed through an agency, meaning travelers cannot apply directly to the government. This adds an extra step and can involve additional fees for agency services.

Step-by-Step Guide for Fast VOA (Visa On Arrival) Processing with Vietnam Online VISA

Vietnam Online VISA ensures a smooth and efficient Visa On Arrival (VOA) application process through a clear and professional procedure tailored to different customer groups. Below are the detailed steps:

Step 1: Collecting Customer Information

Initially, customers need to provide essential personal information and basic requirements for Vietnam Online VISA to classify their application. Required details include:

 Nationality: Crucial to determine if the applicant belongs to the regular group or the special focus group.

– Purpose of entry: Tourism, business, visiting family, or other reasons.

– Proposed entry and exit dates.

– Travel itinerary in Vietnam: Hotel bookings and flight tickets (if necessary).

Based on this information, applications are categorized into two groups:

1. Regular Customers.

2. Special Focus Customers

Visa on Arrival


Step 2: Detailed Instructions for Each Group

1. For Regular Customers

This group includes nationals who can easily obtain a Visa for Vietnam. The preparation steps are as follows:

Required documents:

– A scanned copy of a passport valid for at least six months

– Proposed entry and exit dates.

– Airport of entry in Vietnam.

Duration of stay: Up to 30 days (can apply for a single-entry or multiple-entry visa, similar to an eVisa).

Processing time and expedited options:

Standard processing: 3-5 working days.

Urgent processing: Available within 2 hours for emergency cases.

2. For Special Focus Customers

Special focus customers are nationals from countries with stricter visa requirements for entering Vietnam. The process is more detailed to ensure compliance with Vietnamese immigration regulations

Required documents: Same as for regular customers: A scanned copy of the passport, entry and exit dates, airport, and duration of stay.

Additional mandatory documents:

Hotel booking confirmation: Indicates the accommodation details during the stay in Vietnam.

Round-trip flight tickets: Entry and exit dates must match the visa application period.

Detailed itinerary: A proposed schedule for the stay, consistent with the other submitted documents.

Travel history

Processing time:

– Standard processing: 5-7 days.

– Urgent service can be provided

Important notes:

– All information must be consistent across the passport, flight tickets, hotel bookings, and itinerary to avoid delays or rejections.

Step 3: Receiving Approval and Entry Guidance (For all Group)

– Receive the visa approval letter via email: After your application is processed and approved, you will receive an official visa approval letter issued by the Vietnam Immigration Department.

– Print the letter and present it upon arrival at a Vietnamese airport: It is essential to print a hard copy of this approval letter and carry it with you. Upon arrival at one of Vietnam’s international airports, present this letter at the Visa on Arrival (VOA) counter.

– Pay the visa stamping fee directly at the airport: At the VOA counter, you will be required to pay a stamping fee to have the visa affixed to your passport.


5. Important Notes When Applying for Visa on Arrival

  • Processing Time: While the VOA process is quick, peak travel periods may result in longer wait times at the airport. Arrive early and be prepared.
  • Ineligibility Cases: VOA is not applicable for travelers arriving by land or sea. Ensure your port of entry is an international airport.
  • Policy Changes: Visa regulations can change. Always verify the latest requirements and procedures before your trip.
  • Payment Methods: Ensure you have cash (USD or local currency) to pay the stamping fee at the airport. Credit cards are not accepted.

6. Extending VOA and handling expire

Extending Visa on Arrival (VOA) and Handling Expiry

Travelers entering Vietnam with a Visa on Arrival (VOA) may need to extend their stay or address situations where their visa is nearing expiration. Here’s essential information to guide you:
Extending VOA:

– Eligibility: Extensions for VOAs are generally possible; however, approval depends on factors such as the traveler’s nationality, visa type (single or multiple entry), and the original duration of stay.

– Procedure:

  • Contact a Local Agency: Visa extensions in Vietnam are typically facilitated through local agencies that liaise with the Immigration Department on your behalf.
  • Required Documents: Generally, you’ll need to provide your valid passport, current visa or approval letter, and a completed extension application form.
  • Processing Time: The extension process can take approximately 5-10 working days. It’s advisable to initiate the application well before your current visa expires.

Handling Visa Expiry:

– Avoid Overstaying: Overstaying your visa can lead to fines, penalties, or even deportation. Fines vary based on the duration of the overstay, ranging from VND 500,000 (~US $22) for less than 16 days to VND 20,000,000 (~US $885) for overstays exceeding 90 days.

– If Your Visa Is About to Expire:

  • Apply for an Extension Promptly: Engage a reputable agency to commence the extension process before your visa expires.
  • Consider a Visa Run: If an extension isn’t feasible, you may need to exit Vietnam and re-enter with a new visa.

– In Case of Overstay:

  • Pay the Fine: For short overstays (e.g., 1-2 days), fines can often be settled directly with immigration officers at the airport upon departure. For longer overstays, it’s advisable to visit the local Immigration Office in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City to resolve the issue before departure.

2. Obtain an Exit Visa: In certain cases, especially for extended overstays, you may be required to obtain an exit visa to leave Vietnam legally.

6. Get Your Vietnam VOA Quickly and Conveniently at Vietnam Online Visa

Planning a trip to Vietnam? Le Travel offers fast and hassle-free Visa On Arrival (VOA) services to help you obtain your visa with ease. Whether you’re traveling for business, tourism, or family visits, we make the VOA process seamless. Here’s why you should choose Vietnam Online Visa for your VOA application:

– Quick Processing: At Vietnam Online Visa, we prioritize your time. Our team ensures your VOA approval letter is processed quickly, often within 5-7 business days, or even faster for urgent cases (1-2h).

– Convenient Online Application: No need to visit embassies or consulates. Apply for your VOA approval letter from the comfort of your home, with all steps handled online.

– Expert Assistance: Our team is here to help you through every step of the VOA application process, ensuring all your documents are accurate and complete.

– Affordable Rates: We offer competitive VOA processing fees with no hidden charges. Pay securely online using a credit or debit card.

– Reliable Service: Thousands of travelers trust Vietnam Online Visa for a hassle-free VOA experience. Let us take care of your application with professionalism and efficiency.

– Fast Track Services: To make your arrival even easier, we offer Fast Track services at major airports in Vietnam. Skip the lines and clear immigration quickly upon arrival, ensuring a smooth start to your trip.

Besides, Vietnam is filled with captivating destinations. Wander through Hanoi's lively streets, Saigon's bustling markets, and Can Tho's iconic floating markets along the Mekong Delta. Discover Co Loa's charming ancient citadel, steeped in history and legend, or venture to the mountainous beauty of Ha Giang, where winding roads lead to breathtaking views.

For peaceful escapes, head to Da Lat's cool highlands with pine forests and waterfalls, or the misty rice terraces of Sa Pa that capture the essence of northern Vietnam. Unwind on the pristine shores of Ninh Binh, where limestone cliffs rise from emerald rivers, or explore the natural beauty of Cat Ba Island and the majestic waterfalls and lakes of Cao Bang.

Each place offers its unique charm, painting a vibrant picture of Vietnam's diverse landscapes and rich culture.

To facilitate a smooth travel experience, we provide comprehensive Vietnam visa services, ensuring that your journey to Vietnam and other incredible destinations is effortless and enjoyable. 

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