Your Guide to Obtaining a Vietnam Tourist Visa from Dubai

Planning a trip to Vietnam from Dubai? The Southeast Asian nation, renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and delectable cuisine, requires UAE residents to obtain a tourist visa prior to entry. This comprehensive guide breaks down the process of securing a Vietnam tourist visa, whether through the streamlined E-Visa system or the convenient Visa on Arrival (VOA) option.

Understanding the Vietnam Tourist Visa

A Vietnam tourist visa grants permission for travelers to enter and explore Vietnam for tourism purposes. Typically, this visa permits a stay of 30 days, extendable for an additional 30 days. For UAE residents, the application process is primarily facilitated through two methods: the E-Visa and the Visa on Arrival (VOA). It’s important to note that currently, the VOA is only available for selected nationalities and, should you fall under the category, a reputable travel agency, like Travnook, can assist you with the procedure.

General Document Requirements for Vietnam Tourist Visa from Dubai

Regardless of the chosen visa application method, certain documents are essential. These include:

• Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least 90 days beyond the requested visa’s expiry date and should contain at least two blank pages.
• UAE Residence Visa: This visa must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure date from Vietnam.
• Passport-Sized Photo: A digital photo is required for the E-Visa application, while a printed photo is necessary for VOA.

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  Applying for a Vietnam E-Visa from Dubai

The E-Visa offers a convenient, online application process, allowing applicants to secure their visas from the comfort of their homes.

Step 1: Gather Necessary Documents

Prior to initiating the online application, ensure you have the following:

• A clear scan or photograph of your passport’s biographic page.
• A recent, color passport-sized photo with a white background.
• A valid credit or debit card for payment.
• Your travel itinerary, including entry and exit dates and designated points of entry and exit within Vietnam.

Step 2: Access the Official E-Visa Website

Navigate to the official Vietnam E-Visa website.

Step 3: Complete the Online Application Form

The website will present an application form. Fill in the required information accurately, including:

• Your full name (as it appears in your passport).
• Date of birth.
• Nationality.
• Passport number.
• Intended entry and exit points in Vietnam.
• Purpose of visit (select “tourism”).
• It is imperative to verify all information entered, as errors can result in processing delays or visa denial.

Step 4: Upload Required Documents

You will be prompted to upload a scanned copy of your passport’s biographic page and your passport-sized photo. Ensure these files are clear and adhere to the specified requirements.

Step 5: Remit the Visa Fee

The E-Visa fee is non-refundable and must be paid online using a credit or debit card. Upon successful payment, retain a record of the transaction for your records.

Step 6: Await Your E-Visa

After submitting your application and payment, a confirmation email will be sent to you. The standard processing time for the E-Visa is three working days. However, delays may occur during peak seasons or holidays.

Upon approval, you will receive an email containing a link to download your E-Visa. Print a copy of the E-Visa, as it will be required upon arrival in Vietnam.

Step 7: Arrival in Vietnam with Your E-Visa

Upon arrival in Vietnam, proceed to the immigration counter. Present your passport, printed E-Visa, and entry/exit form (if required). The immigration officer will review your documents and stamp your passport, officially granting you entry into the country.

Applying for a Vietnam Visa on Arrival (VOA) from Dubai

The Visa on Arrival (VOA) provides an alternative for UAE residents, allowing them to obtain their visas upon arrival at one of Vietnam’s international airports. A crucial prerequisite for this method is securing a visa approval letter prior to your trip. The following options are available only for selected nationalities.

Step 1: Engage a Reputable Travel Agency

The VOA process necessitates the involvement of a reputable travel agency or visa service provider, like Travnook. These agencies assist in obtaining the essential visa approval letter.

Step 2: Pay the Service Fee

The chosen agency will charge a service fee for processing your visa approval letter, with this fee varying depending on the agency. It is crucial to ascertain the total cost before making a payment.

The service fee can be paid online using a credit or debit card. Maintain a record of the transaction for your files.

Step 3: Await Your Visa Approval Letter

Following the processing of your application, the agency will email you the visa approval letter. This letter, issued by the Vietnam Immigration Department, permits you to obtain your visa upon arrival at a Vietnamese airport.

The processing time for the visa approval letter is typically 2-3 working days.

Step 4: Prepare Documents for Arrival

Before your journey, assemble the following documents:

• A printed copy of the visa approval letter.
• A completed entry/exit form (accessible online or at the airport).
• Two passport-sized photos (4×6 cm, in color, with a white background).
• Cash (USD) for the stamping fee.

Step 5: Arrival in Vietnam and Visa Acquisition

Upon arrival at a Vietnamese international airport (such as Noi Bai in Hanoi, Tan Son Nhat in Ho Chi Minh City, or Da Nang International Airport), follow these steps:

• Locate the Visa on Arrival Counter: Look for signs indicating “Visa on Arrival” and proceed to the designated counter.
• Submit Your Documents: Present your passport, visa approval letter, completed entry/exit form, and passport-sized photos to the immigration officer.
• Pay the Stamping Fee: Pay the stamping fee in cash (USD) at the counter. Ensure you have the exact amount, as change might not always be available.
• Receive Your Visa: The immigration officer will process your documents and stamp your passport with the visa. This typically takes 15-30 minutes, contingent on the volume of travelers.
• Proceed to Immigration: After receiving your visa, proceed to the immigration counter for passport stamping with your entry date.

Tips for a Seamless Visa Application

To ensure a smooth and efficient visa application experience, adhere to the following guidelines:

• Apply Early: Initiate the visa application process at least 2-3 weeks before your planned travel date to allow ample time to address any potential issues or delays.
• Verify Information: Double-check all information provided in your application form to ensure accuracy and consistency with your passport details.
• Retain Document Copies: Always carry copies of your visa, passport, and other essential documents throughout your trip. Storing digital copies in your email or cloud storage is recommended for convenient access.
• Adhere to Visa Regulations: Comply with the visa conditions and refrain from overstaying your visa. If an extension is necessary, contact the local immigration office in Vietnam for assistance.
• Consult Experts: When opting for the Visa on Arrival, engage only reputable agencies for a streamlined process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the validity period of the Vietnam E-Visa?

A: The Vietnam E-Visa is valid for 30 days from the date of entry. It is a single-entry visa, permitting only one entry into Vietnam during its validity.

Q2: Is it possible to extend my Vietnam tourist visa?

A: Yes, it is possible to extend your Vietnam tourist visa while in the country. Contact the local immigration office or a travel agency in Vietnam for assistance with the extension process.

Q3: What happens if my E-Visa application is denied?

A: If your E-Visa application is denied, you may need to reapply with corrected information or consider applying for a Visa on Arrival instead.

Q4: Can I apply for a Vietnam tourist visa from Dubai if I am not a UAE citizen?

A: Yes, as long as you are a UAE resident with a valid residence visa, you can apply for a Vietnam tourist visa from Dubai.

With proper preparation and adherence to these guidelines, securing a Vietnam tourist visa from Dubai can be a straightforward process, paving the way for an unforgettable journey through the captivating landscapes and vibrant culture of Vietnam.