How to Avoid Any Problem at Vietnam Airport When Getting Your Visa Stamp
Landing in a new country should be exciting, not stressful. If you have chosen a Vietnam Visa on Arrival (VOA) for your trip, understanding the airport “stamping” process is the key to a smooth start.
To help you avoid any problems at Vietnam airport, we have put together this essential guide on navigating the Landing Visa Counter, checking your stamps, and ensuring your stay is legal.
Phase 1: Securing Your Visa Approval Letter
Unlike a standard e-Visa, the Visa on Arrival process begins before you leave home but finishes at the airport.
- The Process: You apply online through our professional service.
- The Timeline: We process your official Approval Letter from the Vietnam Immigration Department within 1–2 working days (standard) or just a few hours for emergencies.
- No Embassy Needed: You don’t need to visit an embassy or mail your physical passport anywhere. Just print the letter we email you and bring it to the airport.
Phase 2: At the Vietnam International Airport
Once you land at an international terminal (such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or Da Nang), follow these steps to get your Vietnam visa stamp:
- Locate the Landing Visa Office: Look for signs saying “Landing Visa” or “Visa Upon Arrival” before you reach the Customs/Passport Control counters.
- Submit Your Documents: Hand over your printed Approval Letter, your original passport (valid for at least 6 months), two passport-sized photos, and the Stamping Fee in cash ($25 for single entry).
- The Visa Sticker: The officer will place a physical visa sticker in your passport.
- Customs Check-in: After receiving your sticker, move to the Customs Counter. Here, the officer will give you the blue entry stamp.
Phase 3: The “Double-Check” to Avoid Airport Problems
This is the most critical step. Since officers handle hundreds of travelers daily, minor human errors can occur. To avoid any problems at Vietnam airport, always verify these two stamps before leaving the counter:
| Stamp Type | What it Shows | Why it Matters |
| Entry Stamp | The exact date you arrived in Vietnam. | Proves when your legal stay began. |
| Permitted Stay Stamp | The specific date your visa expires. | This is the last day you are legally allowed in the country. |
Pro Tip: Ensure the “Permitted Stay” date matches your visa type (e.g., 30 days or 90 days). If you spot an error, point it out to the officer immediately at the counter. Correcting it later at an Immigration Office is much more difficult and expensive.
Important Reminders for a Smooth Entry
- Leave Before Expiry: You must exit Vietnam on or before the date shown on your “Permitted Stay” stamp.
- Visa Extensions: If you fall in love with Vietnam and want to stay longer, you must apply for a visa extension well before your current stamp expires. Overstaying can result in heavy fines and exit delays.
- Print Everything: While the world is digital, Vietnam Immigration requires physical paper copies of your approval letter and entry forms.
Why Choose EntryVietnamVisa?
We take the guesswork out of your travel. By coordinating directly with the Vietnam Immigration Department, we ensure your approval letter is 100% accurate and issued on time. Our mission is to make sure your only focus is enjoying the beauty of Vietnam.
Ready to start your journey?
Apply for your Vietnam Visa Approval Letter today and travel with total peace of mind.