How to Get Your Vietnam Visa at the Airport: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re planning to travel to Vietnam, one of the most convenient ways to obtain a visa is through the Visa on Arrival (VOA) service at international airports. This process allows travelers to receive their Vietnam visa upon arrival, provided they have the necessary documents, including a visa approval letter obtained in advance. Although the procedure is simple, proper preparation is key to ensure a smooth experience. Here is a comprehensive guide to navigating the VOA process at Vietnam’s international airports.

Preparing for Your Vietnam Visa on Arrival

Before you travel, it’s important to gather all required documents for the VOA process. The most critical item is the Vietnam visa approval letter, which must be obtained online before your departure. In addition, you’ll need a valid passport, a completed entry-exit form, two passport-sized photos, and the visa stamping fee, which must be paid in cash. Without these documents, you will not be granted a visa upon arrival.

Once you’ve collected all necessary documents, you’ll be ready to proceed to the VOA counter at the airport.

Step 1: Locate the Visa on the Arrival Counter

Upon arrival at the airport, your first task is to find the VOA counter. After entering the immigration hall, look to your left. The VOA counter is generally located at the far end of the hall. Many airports have signs to direct you to the correct location, so follow the signs or ask airport staff if you’re unsure.

Step 2: Submit Your Documents

At the VOA counter, you will need to present several documents. These include:

Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned arrival date in Vietnam.
A printed copy of your Vietnam visa approval letter, which confirms your eligibility to receive a visa upon arrival.
A completed entry-exit form, which is available at the counter or may have been sent to you with your approval letter.
Two recent passport-sized photos (4×6 cm).

Once you hand over these documents, the immigration officer will process your visa. Processing time can vary depending on the number of applicants ahead of you. Typically, it takes between 15 and 30 minutes, but it could be longer if the airport is busy, especially during peak travel seasons or when large groups are arriving.

Step 3: Wait for Your Name to Be Called

After submitting your documents, you will need to wait for the officer to finish processing your visa. Stay near the counter so you can hear when your name is called. When it’s your turn, the officer will hold up your passport photo and announce your name, signaling that your visa is ready for pickup.

At this point, you will need to pay the visa stamping fee. Only cash (either in US Dollars or Vietnamese Dong) is accepted, so ensure you have the correct currency available before reaching the counter.

Step 4: Receive Your Stamped Passport

After you’ve paid the stamping fee, the officer will return your passport with the Vietnam visa stamp. You will also receive a receipt for your payment. Take a moment to carefully check the information on your visa to ensure everything is accurate.

Verify the following details:

Your full name as it appears in your passport.
Your passport number.
The visa validity dates (start and end dates).
The number of entries allowed (single or multiple).

If you notice any discrepancies, inform the officer immediately so that corrections can be made. It’s much easier to address mistakes right away than to deal with them later.

Step 5: Proceed to Immigration Control

Once your passport is stamped, proceed to the immigration control area. Here, an officer will check your passport, visa, and any other necessary documents. After completing this step, you’ll officially be allowed to enter Vietnam.

How Long Does the Visa on Arrival Process Take?

Generally, the entire process takes around 30 minutes. However, depending on the size of the crowd or the airport’s busyness, it may take a bit longer, especially if large groups are processing their visas at the same time. While waiting can be frustrating, the VOA process is still faster and more cost-effective than applying for a visa through an embassy or consulate.

If you prefer to avoid waiting in long lines, many airports offer an expedited service called the “Airport Speed Up” service. This service allows a representative to handle your immigration paperwork for you, saving time and hassle. However, this service comes with an additional fee.

Advantages of the Vietnam Visa on Arrival

The Vietnam visa on arrival service offers several benefits over traditional embassy or consulate visa applications:

Convenience: The visa approval process is done online, which means you won’t need to visit an embassy. You can receive your approval letter via email, eliminating the need for in-person visits.
Cost-effective: The VOA is often cheaper than applying through the embassy or consulate, making it an affordable option for travelers.
Flexibility: You can choose between a single-entry or multiple-entry visa, and the visa can be valid for up to 90 days.
Efficiency: As long as you have all the required documents, the process at the airport is quick and straightforward.

How to Apply for a Vietnam Visa on Arrival

To apply for a Vietnam visa on arrival, follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Fill out the Vietnam visa online application form on our website: https://entryvietnamvisa.com/apply-visa/.
Step 2: Make the online payment for the visa application.
Step 3: Wait 2-3 business days for your visa approval letter to be sent via email.
Step 4: Print out the approval letter and bring it with you, along with your passport, two passport-sized photos, and the visa stamping fee. Present these at the VOA counter upon arrival at the airport.

By following these steps, you’ll be all set to obtain your Vietnam visa upon arrival and start your adventure in this beautiful country.

Conclusion

The Vietnam Visa on Arrival process is a simple and convenient way for travelers to obtain a visa upon landing in Vietnam. With a little preparation and by following the outlined steps, you can easily navigate the process and avoid any delays. Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, the VOA service offers a fast and cost-effective solution for international travelers arriving in Vietnam.