How to obtain a visa for Vietnam?

Are you planning a trip to Vietnam? Whether for a vacation, a business trip, or a cultural immersion, you need to know the formalities for entering and staying in this wonderful Asian country. One of the most important is obtaining a visa. In this guide, we will explain step by step how to obtain this precious sesame.

Prerequisites for obtaining a Vietnam visa

Before you even begin the process of obtaining your visa, it is essential to check that you meet all the necessary conditions. For example, you must have a valid passport at least 6 months after the end date of your planned stay in Vietnam.

Additionally, note that for certain nationalities, a visa exemption may be granted. For example, if you are a citizen of one of the ASEAN countries, you can stay in Vietnam without a visa for a period of 14 to 30 days, depending on your nationality. This is also the case for French, Italian, German, Spanish and British nationals, who can stay up to 15 days without a visa, under certain conditions.

Visa application from the Vietnamese embassy

If you do not benefit from the visa waiver, you will need to apply for a visa at the Vietnamese embassy or consulate closest to you. To do this, you will need to complete a visa application form, provide your original passport, two recent passport photos, and of course, pay the visa fee.

The time it takes to obtain a visa may vary from one embassy to another, but in general, you should allow between 2 and 5 working days. It is therefore best to make your request well in advance of your travel date.

Electronic visa for Vietnam

Since 2017, the Vietnamese government has implemented an electronic visa service (e-Visa) to facilitate procedures for foreign travelers. This online service allows you to apply for your visa remotely, without having to travel.

To obtain your e-Visa, you will need to complete an online form, upload a passport photo and a copy of your passport, and pay the visa fee by credit card. Once your application is approved, you will receive your e-Visa by email within 3 business days.

Visa on arrival in Vietnam

Another option for obtaining your visa is visa on arrival. This service is offered to certain nationalities and certain entries into the country (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang international airports).

In order to obtain your visa on arrival, you will first need to obtain a visa approval letter online from a travel agency or visa service company. This letter must be presented upon arrival at the airport, where you can obtain your visa.

Duration and validity of visa for Vietnam

The length of stay permitted and the validity of your visa depend on the type of visa you have obtained. Tourist visas are generally valid for 30 days, but can be extended once there. Business visas, on the other hand, can be valid for up to 1 year.

It is important to note that the duration of your stay begins from the date of entry indicated on your visa, not the date you obtained your visa. It is therefore crucial to plan your trip accordingly.

In conclusion, getting your Vietnam visa may seem like a daunting task, but by planning well and following these tips, you should be able to navigate this process with ease. Have a good trip !

Invited by a Vietnamese or an organization in Vietnam: how does it work?

To obtain a visa for Vietnam, there is another way, less known but just as effective: being invited by a Vietnamese resident or an organization based in Vietnam. This can be an interesting option for those who have contacts in the country or who participate in events organized by Vietnamese entities.

In this context, the Vietnamese entity or person inviting you must write a invitation letter. This is then submitted to the Vietnam Immigration Office for approval. Once approval is obtained, a copy of the approved invitation letter will be sent to you. You can then use it to apply for your visa.

It is important to know that the invitation letter does not replace the visa: it simply constitutes a prerequisite for the visa application. You will then have to follow the same procedure as that described previously to obtain the visa.

How to extend your stay in Vietnam?

If you are already there and would like to extend your stay, know that it is entirely possible. You will not have to leave the country to obtain a new visa.

To extend your tourist or business visa, you must contact the Immigration Office or a travel agency in Vietnam. You will need to provide your passport, photo ID and complete an extension request form. Processing time varies between 5 to 7 business days.

The duration of the extension depends on the visa type that you hold. A tourist visa can usually be extended for one month, while a business visa can be extended for up to three months. Please note, however, that the extension request must be made at least one week before the expiry date of your current visa.

Conclusion

Obtaining a visa for Vietnam requires a minimum of preparation. Whether applying through the Vietnamese embassy, ​​e-Visa, visa on arrival or Vietnamese invitation, each method has its own particularities and requirements.

Additionally, it is essential to check the validity period of your visa and know how to extend it if necessary. Finally, don’t forget that compliance with entry and stay formalities in Vietnam is essential to enjoy your trip in complete peace of mind.

Now that you have all the keys in hand to obtain your visa for Vietnam, all you have to do is pack your bags and fly to this destination rich in discoveries and adventures. Have a good trip !