Planning a last-minute trip to Vietnam but need a visa ASAP? Getting an immediate Vietnam visa is possible with some preparation. This comprehensive guide will walk you through your options.
Overview of Vietnam Visa Options
There are a few different ways to get a Vietnam visa quickly:
- Visa on Arrival (VOA): Available at international airports in Vietnam. Quick and easy but has eligibility requirements.
- E-visa: Apply online and get approval in 24 hours. Limited to citizens of 80+ countries.
- Rush visa: Apply through a visa agency for urgent processing. More expensive but fast service.
- Visa exemption: Citizens of certain countries like Thailand and Singapore can enter visa-free.
Which option will work best depends on your nationality and travel plans.
Visa on Arrival for Quick Entry
The fastest and most convenient way to get an immediate Vietnam visa is to apply for a Visa on Arrival (VOA).
Here’s how it works:
- Fly into an international airport in Vietnam. Major airports like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and Phu Quoc allow VOA.
- Have a passport photo ready and complete the VOA application form. Blank forms are available at the airport.
- Proceed through immigration control and present your documentation.
- Pay the visa stamping fee (around US$25-50 depending on single/multiple entry).
- Get your passport stamped with a Vietnam visa that’s valid immediately.
To qualify for VOA, you must meet these requirements:
- Hold a passport from one of the 80+ eligible countries.
- Have a return plane ticket out of Vietnam.
- Ensure you have enough validity left on your passport (at least 6 months).
Provided you meet the criteria, VOA takes only minutes to obtain upon landing in Vietnam. It’s the fastest and most hassle-free way to get an immediate visa.
E-Visa for Simple Online Application
Another easy option is applying online for an e-visa before you travel. It takes just 3 steps:
- Complete the e-visa application form online.
- Make the payment of around US$25 by credit card.
- Receive approval via email within 24 hours.
Once approved, print out the e-visa document to present to immigration officers upon arrival to Vietnam.
The major advantage of an e-visa is the quick and simple application process. But there are a few limitations:
- Only eligible for citizens from 80+ countries.
- E-visas can take up to 3 days for approval during peak seasons.
- Cannot extend e-visas once within Vietnam.
As long as you meet the eligibility criteria, e-visas are the easiest way to get fast Vietnam visa approval online.
Rush Visa for Guaranteed Urgent Processing
If you need a Vietnam visa immediately and don’t qualify for VOA or e-visa, a rush visa is your best option.
Rush visa services will guarantee accelerated visa processing within 24 hours.
Follow these steps:
- Contact a rush Vietnam visa service and fill out their application form. Most allow online applications.
- Provide a copy of your passport, passport photo, and any other required documents.
- Make an expedited payment, usually around US$100-150. Extra fees apply for faster processing.
- Get your approved visa emailed to you on the same day or overnight.
- Receive your passport back with the visa sticker within 1-3 business days.
While rush visas have higher fees and require more paperwork, they’re ideal for getting a Vietnam visa on short notice. The visa agencies leverage connections at embassies to get nearly instant approval.
Just be sure to use a reputable company with lots of good reviews. Avoid agencies that promise unrealistic processing times.
Visa Exemptions for Citizens of ASEAN Countries
Citizens of certain Southeast Asian countries like Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines can enter Vietnam without a visa.
They are eligible for visa exemptions of 14-30 days. Check the official Vietnamese government website for details on visa exemption eligibility.
The visa exemption is automatically applied upon arriving at international entry points to Vietnam. No application is required.
This option is essentially an immediate visa for Vietnam. But the visa waiver period is short and cannot be extended within Vietnam.
Frequently Asked Questions about Getting a Vietnam Visa Quickly 2024
Q: How long does it take to get a Vietnam visa?
A: The processing time for a Vietnam visa can vary depending on the type of visa and the method of application.
- Visa on arrival (VOA): 2-3 working days
- E-visa: 3 working days
- Embassy/consulate visa: 5-7 working days
Q: Can I get a visa at the airport upon arrival in Vietnam?
A: Yes, travelers from eligible countries can obtain a VOA upon arrival at any of Vietnam’s international airports. However, this option is generally more expensive and time-consuming than applying for a visa in advance.
Q: How do I apply for an E-visa?
A: E-visas can be applied for online through the official Vietnam Immigration Department website. You will need to provide personal information, travel details, and a recent passport-style photograph.
Q: What are the requirements for an embassy/consulate visa?
A: The specific requirements may vary depending on the embassy or consulate. Typically, you will need to provide:
- A completed visa application form
- A valid passport
- Two passport-style photographs
- Proof of travel (e.g., flight itinerary)
- Accommodation details
- Visa fee
Q: How much does a Vietnam visa cost?
A: The cost of a Vietnam visa varies depending on the type of visa, method of application, and nationality.
- VOA: $25
- E-visa: $25-$50
- Embassy/consulate visa: $45-$100
Q: Can I extend my Vietnam visa?
A: Yes, you can extend your Vietnam visa for a period of 1-3 months. You will need to apply through the Vietnam Immigration Department or a travel agent.
Q: What are the penalties for overstaying my Vietnam visa?
A: Overstaying your Vietnam visa can result in a fine of $5 per day. Extended overstays may also lead to legal consequences, including imprisonment.
5 Tips for Getting Your Vietnam Visa Quickly
Here are some additional pointers to expedite the process:
- Apply early – Give yourself enough time in case of any delays or complications.
- Have all documents ready – Passport, ID photos, application forms, etc.
- Check the requirements – For VOA, e-visa, or visa agency.
- Pay any rush fees – Higher costs can ensure faster visa processing.
- Avoid peak seasons – Visa congestion is higher around major holidays.
Conclusion
Whether you want to apply on arrival, online, or through an agency, getting an immediate Vietnam visa is possible with the right approach. Visa on Arrival offers the fastest and most convenient solution for many travelers. E-visas and rush visas are good alternatives if you don’t qualify for VOA. And ASEAN citizens can even enter visa-free. With some preparation and diligently following the steps outlined above, you can get a Vietnam visa rapidly.