From India to Vietnam: Understanding the Visa Application Journey

Embarking on an adventure to Vietnam, a country teeming with rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant culture, is a dream come true for many travelers. As an Indian citizen, you might be excited to explore this enchanting destination, but before you set foot on Vietnamese soil, there’s one crucial step you need to tackle: the visa application process.

Navigating through visa requirements can be a daunting task, but fear not! In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the entire visa application process for Vietnam, helping you understand the essential steps, required documents, and potential challenges. By the end of this article, you’ll be well-prepared to embark on your Vietnamese journey with confidence.

So, whether you plan to immerse yourself in the bustling streets of Hanoi, cruise through the stunning Halong Bay, or wander among the ancient temples of Hoi An, understanding the visa process is the first step toward making your Vietnam adventure a reality.

Let’s delve into the intricacies of Vietnam’s visa requirements and ensure your travel plans go off without a hitch!

When you travel to Vietnam, Indians can obtain the e-Visa along with Visa on Arrival (VOA) as a travel permit.

So which visa is right for you?

Here are the updated types of visas available in Vietnam as of 2023

Vietnam Visa Fees

Visa on Arrival (VOA): If you are arriving in Vietnam by air, you can apply for a visa on arrival. The fee for VOA includes two parts: the service fee (paid online to a visa agency) and the stamping fee (paid in cash at the airport). The service fee varies depending on the agency you choose, while the stamping fee is fixed by the Vietnamese government. The stamping fee for a single-entry visa is around $25 USD.

E-Visa: Vietnam also offers an electronic visa (e-visa) option for Indian citizens, which allows you to apply online directly through the official website of the Vietnamese government. The e-visa fee is usually around $25 USD for a single-entry visa and may be paid online during the application process.

Documents Required for Vietnam Visa Process

When applying for a Vietnam visa, the specific documents required may vary depending on the type of visa you are seeking and your nationality. As an Indian citizen, here are the general documents you will typically need for the Vietnam visa process:

Valid Passport: Your passport must have a minimum of six months validity from the date of entry into Vietnam. It should also have at least one blank page for the visa stamp.

Completed Visa Application Form: You will need to fill out a visa application form with accurate and up-to-date information. This form is usually available on the website of the Vietnamese embassy or consulate. Click here to apply.

Passport-sized Photos: Prepare 2-4 passport-sized photos (4×6 cm) with a white background, taken within the last six months.

Visa Approval Letter (for Visa on Arrival): If you are applying for a Visa on Arrival, you will need to obtain a visa approval letter issued by the Vietnamese Immigration Department through a visa agency or tour operator.

E-Visa Approval (for E-Visa): If you are applying for an E-Visa, you will need to receive an approved e-visa letter from the official Vietnamese government website.

Visa Fee Payment: Prepare the necessary visa fees, which can vary depending on the type of visa and your nationality. Payments are typically made online for E-Visa or to a visa agency for Visa on Arrival.

Travel Itinerary: Provide a detailed travel itinerary, including your planned entry and exit dates, places you intend to visit, and accommodation details.

Proof of Accommodation: Present hotel reservations or an invitation letter from your host in Vietnam as proof of your accommodation during your stay.

Flight Itinerary: If you are applying for a Visa on Arrival, you may need to show proof of your return flight ticket to and from Vietnam.

Financial Proof: Some embassies or consulates may require you to show proof of sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in Vietnam.

Airports in Vietnam that offer Visa on Arrival:

• Noi Bai International Airport (HAN)
• Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN)
• Da Nang International Airport (DAD)
• Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC)
• Cam Ranh International Airport (CXR)
• Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH)

Vietnam Tourist Visa/Immigration Interview Questions

• What is the purpose of your trip to Vietnam?
• How long do you plan to stay in Vietnam?
• Can you provide an overview of your travel itinerary while in Vietnam?
• Where will you be staying during your visit? Do you have hotel reservations?
• Have you traveled to Vietnam or any other countries in the past? If yes, when and for what purpose?

Embassies

The visa process for Indians traveling to Vietnam involves several options, including tourist visas, business visas, Visa on Arrival, and E-visas. It’s crucial to understand the specific requirements and follow the correct application procedures to ensure a successful and hassle-free experience. Always adhere to the visa conditions, avoid overstaying, and enjoy your trip to beautiful Vietnam.