Vietnam Visa Online How to Apply, Cost, Status and More
Are you planning a trip to Vietnam and wondering how to obtain a visa? In the past, obtaining a Vietnam visa required a visit to the embassy or consulate. However, nowadays, you can apply for a Vietnam visa online with ease. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of applying for a Vietnam visa online, and discuss the cost, status, and more.
What is a Vietnam Visa Online?
A Vietnam visa online is an electronic travel authorization granted by the Vietnam Immigration Department that allows foreign citizens to enter and exit Vietnam for a limited period. The process of obtaining a Vietnam visa online is entirely digital, meaning applicants don’t need to visit any embassy or consulate physically.
Types of Vietnam Visas
There are many different types of Vietnam visas, each with its own purpose, length of stay, and eligibility requirements. The most common types of visas are:
Tourist visa (DL)
- For tourists who want to visit Vietnam for pleasure or sightseeing.
- Single entry or multiple entry visas are available for stays of up to 30 or 90 days, respectively.
Business visa (DN1, DN2)
- For business travelers who want to attend meetings, conferences, or exhibitions in Vietnam.
- Single entry or multiple entry visas are available for stays of up to 30 or 90 days, respectively.
Student/internship visa (DH)
- For foreign students who want to study in Vietnam or for interns who want to work in Vietnam.
- Single entry or multiple entry visas are available for stays of up to 6 or 12 months, respectively.
Investor visa (DT1, DT2, DT3, DT4)
- For foreign investors who want to invest in Vietnam.
- Single entry or multiple entry visas are available for stays of up to 5 or 10 years, respectively.
Working visa (LD1 – LD2)
- For foreign workers who want to work in Vietnam.
- Single entry or multiple entry visas are available for stays of up to 1 or 3 years, respectively.
Diplomatic visa (NGO)
- For diplomats, consular officers, and representatives of international organizations.
- Single entry or multiple entry visas are available for stays of up to 30 days, respectively.
Visa Exemption (LX)
- For nationals of certain countries who do not require a visa to enter Vietnam for stays of up to 15 days.
Electronic visa (e-visa)
- An electronic visa that can be obtained online for citizens of certain countries.
- Single entry or multiple entry visas are available for stays of up to 30 days, respectively.
Visa on Arrival (VOA)
- A visa that can be obtained upon arrival at a Vietnamese airport for citizens of certain countries.
- Single entry or multiple entry visas are available for stays of up to 30 days, respectively.
How to Apply for a Vietnam Visa Online
The process of applying for a Vietnam visa online is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Visit the official website of the Vietnam Immigration Department or a reliable third-party visa service provider.
- Fill out the online visa application form with your details, including passport information, proposed entry/exit dates, and purpose of visit.
- Upload a scanned copy of your passport bio-page and a passport photo.
- Pay the visa processing fee online using a credit/debit card or PayPal.
- Wait for the visa approval letter to be processed and sent to your email within 2-3 business days.
- Print out the visa approval letter and bring it with you to present at the airport upon arrival, along with your passport and two recent passport photos.
Vietnam Visa Online Cost
The cost of a Vietnam visa online varies depending on the type of visa, processing time, and service provider. Generally, the cost ranges from $25 to $100. You may also need to pay an additional stamping fee upon arrival at the airport, which ranges from $25 to $135, depending on the duration of stay and type of visa.
Vietnam Visa Online Urgent Processing
If you are in a hurry to travel to Vietnam, you can apply for an urgent visa online. This service is available for both tourist and business visas. The processing time for an urgent visa is typically 24-48 hours, but it can be as fast as 4 hours. You will need to pay an additional fee for urgent processing.
Eligibility
To be eligible for an urgent visa, you must meet the following requirements:
- You must have a valid passport with at least 6 months of remaining validity.
- You must have a confirmed flight ticket to Vietnam.
- You must be able to provide a clear copy of your passport photo page.
How to Apply
To apply for an urgent visa, you will need to follow these steps:
- Visit the website of a reputable visa agent.
- Select the “Urgent Visa” option.
- Fill out the online application form.
- Upload a clear copy of your passport photo page.
- Upload a copy of your confirmed flight ticket.
- Pay the visa fee.
Processing Time
The processing time for an urgent visa is typically 24-48 hours. However, it can be as fast as 4 hours if you submit your application during business hours.
Fees
The fee for an urgent visa is typically an additional $20-$30 per person.
Delivery
Your visa approval letter will be sent to you by email. You will need to print this letter and present it to the immigration officer at the airport upon arrival in Vietnam.
Vietnam Visa Online Status Check
After submitting your visa application online, you can check your visa status by following these steps:
- Visit the official website of the Vietnam Immigration Department.
- Click on the “Check Status” tab and enter your application reference number or passport number and date of birth.
- Click on the “Search” button, and your visa status will be displayed.
Vietnam Visa Online Application Form
The Vietnam visa online application form requires you to provide personal information such as your name, address, passport details, purpose of visit, and proposed entry/exit dates. Ensure that all the information you provide is accurate and matches the details in your passport.
Vietnam Visa Online Immigration Department
The Vietnam Immigration Department is responsible for processing and approving Vietnam visa applications. They also oversee border control and ensure that foreign visitors comply with the visa regulations. If you have any inquiries regarding your visa application or status, you can contact the Vietnam Immigration Department through their official website or via email.
FAQs Vietnam Visa Online
1. Is it safe to apply for a Vietnam visa online?
Yes, it’s safe to apply for a Vietnam visa online as long as you choose a reliable service provider and follow the correct procedures.
2. How long does it take to obtain a Vietnam visa online?
It takes 2-3 business days to obtain a standard Vietnam visa online. However, if you need an urgent visa, you can opt for expedited processing and receive your visa within a few hours.
3. Can I extend my Vietnam visa while in Vietnam?
Yes, you can extend your Vietnam visa while in Vietnam by visiting the Vietnam Immigration Department or through a reliable visa service provider.
4. What happens if my Vietnam visa application is rejected?
If your Vietnam visa application is rejected, you may need to reapply or seek assistance from a visa serviceprovider. It’s essential to ensure that you meet all the visa requirements and provide accurate information to avoid rejection.
5. Do I need a Vietnam visa if I’m just transiting through Vietnam?
If you’re transiting through Vietnam, you may not need a visa as long as you don’t leave the transit area of the airport. However, if you plan to leave the airport or stay in Vietnam for more than 24 hours, you’ll need to obtain a transit visa or a regular visa, depending on your purpose of visit.