Vietnam, a captivating country with stunning landscapes and rich culture, is a popular destination for Indian travelers. If you’re planning your trip, understanding the visa process is crucial. While the E-visa is common, many Indians inquire about the Vietnam visa for Indians on arrival (VOA). This guide provides everything you need to know about securing your visa, focusing specifically on the VOA process and comparing it with the E-visa option. Beyond the visa, budgeting for your adventure is also key; understanding the Vietnam trip cost from India will help you plan effectively.
I. Introduction: Understanding Vietnam Visa for Indians on Arrival
Vietnam, with its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant cities, has rapidly become a sought-after holiday destination for Indian travellers. Access has improved significantly, with more direct flights connecting India and Vietnam, making it easier than ever to explore this Southeast Asian gem.
However, a crucial point for all travellers is understanding the entry requirements. All Indian passport holders REQUIRE a valid Vietnam visa to enter the country. While there’s a specific visa exemption for Phu Quoc Island under certain conditions, for the rest of Vietnam, a visa is mandatory.
Fortunately, Indian citizens have multiple pathways to secure their visa:
- The online Vietnam eVisa: A fully electronic visa applied for online before travel. It’s generally the most recommended option for tourists due to its simplicity and wider entry point acceptance (including land and sea borders). A Vietnam evisa is good for up to 90 days (including entry and exit dates), single or multiple entry. A Vietnam visa for Indians can be applied for by themself at the Immigration website.
- A traditional visa obtained through a Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate.
- The Vietnam Visa on Arrival (VOA) – which is the primary focus of this comprehensive guide. This involves getting a pre-approved “Visa Approval Letter” online before you travel and then receiving the actual visa stamp in your passport upon arrival at specific Vietnamese international airports. This is especially relevant for those needing a visa urgently or making last-minute travel plans.
A Vietnam visa should generally be applied for at least 7 working days in advance (excluding Saturday, Sunday and Public Holidays of Vietnam). To speed up the Vietnam arrival procedure at the airport, Vietnam arrival Fast-track service is highly recommended.
This article provides all the essential details you need to successfully obtain your Vietnam Visa on Arrival (VOA) for Indian nationals.
II. What Exactly is the Vietnam Visa on Arrival (VOA) for Indians?
The Vietnam VOA is a system that allows eligible Indian citizens to obtain their official visa stamp directly upon landing at certain designated Vietnam international airports. Instead of having the visa in your passport before you travel, you complete a pre-approval process online and then finalize the visa at the airport.
This method is particularly advantageous and highly recommended for Indians in situations of emergency travel to Vietnam or when you don’t have sufficient time to apply for and receive a Vietnam eVisa before your scheduled departure. It’s important to distinguish this from visa-free entry; VOA is a streamlined process to get a visa issued upon landing, but it requires prior online arrangements.
The Visa on Arrival typically allows for a 30-day stay for tourist purposes, though the exact terms will be specified on your VOA Approval Letter. Longer durations (e.g., up to 3 months) can also be arranged via VOA depending on the service.
Who is the VOA suitable for?
- Indian travelers arriving by air at specific international airports.
- Those needing an urgent visa (approval letters can sometimes be processed faster than e-visas in emergencies, though this costs extra).
- Business travelers requiring specific visa types arranged via VOA.
- Travelers who prefer this method or encountered issues with the e-visa system.
III. The Absolute Pre-requisite: Your VOA Approval Letter for Vietnam
CRITICAL ALERT for all Indian Travellers: It is absolutely IMPOSSIBLE to obtain a Vietnam Visa on Arrival by simply showing up at a Vietnamese airport without prior arrangements. The term “Visa on Arrival” can be slightly misleading. You cannot simply arrive in Vietnam without prior arrangement and expect a visa. The cornerstone of the VOA process is the VOA Approval Letter.
This Approval Letter is an official document issued by the Vietnam Immigration Department. It confirms that you, an Indian passport holder, are pre-authorized to receive the visa stamp upon your arrival in Vietnam.
How do Indian citizens get this vital letter?
- You must apply online through a legitimate and authorized Vietnam visa service provider or a registered travel agency. (Search for “Vietnam visa approval letter service”).
- This application for the VOA Approval Letter must be completed and the letter received BEFORE your departure from India (or any other country) to Vietnam.
Airlines are strict about this. You WILL NOT be allowed to board any flight bound for Vietnam if you cannot present a valid VOA Approval Letter (or a valid eVisa/embassy visa).
IV. Eligibility & Document Checklist for Indian Applicants: VOA Approval Letter & Airport Stamping
To be eligible for the Vietnam VOA, Indian applicants must meet certain criteria and prepare the necessary documents for both the online approval letter application and the final stamping at the airport. As you prepare, you might also want to familiarize yourself with the basics of the language in Vietnam to enhance your travel experience.
A. Eligibility for Indians (VOA):
- Must be an Indian passport holder.
- Passport must have at least 6 months validity from your date of entry into Vietnam.
- Passport must have at least 2 blank pages for the visa stamp and entry/exit stamps.
- Must intend to enter Vietnam via one of the designated international airports that facilitate VOA. VOA is NOT available at land or sea borders.
B. Documents for Online VOA Approval Letter Application (for Indians):
- Valid Indian Passport:
- Minimum 6 months validity remaining from your intended date of entry into Vietnam.
- At least 02 blank pages available for the visa stamp and immigration entry/exit marks.
- Scanned Copy of Passport Bio-Page: A clear, full-color digital scan of your Indian passport’s personal details page (showing your photo, name, passport number, etc.).
- Digital Portrait Photo: A recent passport-style photograph meeting Vietnam visa photo requirements (usually 4x6cm or 2×2 inches, white background, face clearly visible, taken within the last 3-6 months).
- Details of your intended arrival date, arrival airport, and type of visa (single/multiple entry, duration).
C. Documents Required at the Vietnam Airport for Visa Stamping (for Indians):
- Original Indian Passport (still meeting the 6-month validity and 2-blank-pages rule).
- A printed copy of the official VOA Approval Letter.
- Two (2) recent passport-sized photos (typically 4×6 cm, white background).
- Vietnam Visa Stamping Fee: This must be paid in USD cash (details in Section VII).
- A completed Vietnamese Visa Application Form (Form NA1). This is often downloadable from the agency you used for the Approval Letter or available at the VOA counter at the airport. Filling it out beforehand can save time.
V. Step-by-Step: How Indian Citizens Get the Vietnam Visa on Arrival
The process for Indian citizens to obtain a Vietnam Visa on Arrival involves a few clear steps:
- Step 1: Apply Online for Your VOA Approval Letter.
- Select a reputable and trusted Vietnam visa service provider (many exist, search online).
- Carefully complete their secure online application form with your accurate Indian passport details (full name, date of birth, passport number, expiry date), travel dates, and arrival airport.
- Upload the required digital documents: your passport bio-page scan and your portrait photo.
- Pay the Approval Letter Service Fee to the agency. This fee varies depending on the agency, visa type (single/multiple entry, 1/3 month duration), and processing speed (standard vs. urgent).
- Step 2: Receive Your Official VOA Approval Letter via Email.
- The agency will process your application with the Vietnam Immigration Department.
- You will receive the Visa Approval Letter via email (usually as a PDF) within the promised timeframe (typically 2-3 working days for standard processing, faster for urgent services).
- Meticulously check all the details on the letter (your name, passport number, date of birth, entry/exit dates, port of entry) to ensure they perfectly match your Indian passport and travel plans.
- Print at least two clear copies of the Approval Letter.
- Step 3: Prepare for Arrival & Travel to Vietnam (Fly to a Designated International Airport).
- At the airline check-in counter in India (or your departure country), you will need to present your valid Indian passport and your printed VOA Approval Letter to be allowed to board your flight to Vietnam.
- Ensure you have all documents from section IV.C ready.
- Step 4: Obtain Your Vietnam Visa on Arrival Stamp at the Airport.
- Upon arrival at one of Vietnam’s designated international airports (see Section VI), do NOT go straight to the main immigration counters.
- Look for the “Visa on Arrival” or “Landing Visa” counter. This is usually located before the main immigration passport control counters.
- At the VOA counter, submit the following:
- Your original Indian Passport.
- Your printed VOA Approval Letter.
- The completed Vietnamese Visa Application Form (NA1).
- Your two passport-sized photos.
- Pay the Vietnam visa stamping fee directly to the Immigration Officer in USD cash.
- Wait for your name to be called while the officer processes your visa and affixes the visa sticker into one of the blank pages in your Indian passport.
- Once you receive your passport with the visa stamp, proceed to the regular immigration counters for the entry check.
VI. Designated International Airports for Vietnam VOA Entry for Indians
The Vietnam Visa on Arrival for Indians is a convenient option, but it’s crucial to know that it is EXCLUSIVELY available if you enter Vietnam through one of the following major Vietnam international airports. Knowing these entry points helps in planning your internal travel, and for that, understanding Transportation in Vietnam will be very useful.
- Hanoi (Noi Bai International Airport – HAN)
- Ho Chi Minh City (Tan Son Nhat International Airport – SGN)
- Da Nang (Da Nang International Airport – DAD)
- Nha Trang (Cam Ranh International Airport – CXR)
- Hai Phong (Cat Bi International Airport – HPH)
- Phu Quoc (Phu Quoc International Airport – PQC) (Note: Always check specific Phu Quoc visa exemption conditions if they apply to your travel, though VOA is an option if entering through its international airport with an approval letter for mainland travel purposes).
Very Important Note: If you are an Indian citizen planning to enter Vietnam via a land border crossing (e.g., from Cambodia, Laos, or China) or by a seaport, you CANNOT use the VOA method. In such cases, you must obtain a Vietnam eVisa or a traditional embassy-issued visa before you travel.
VII. Vietnam VOA: Processing Time & Fees for Indian Applicants
Understanding the timeline and costs involved is essential for Indian applicants opting for the Vietnam Visa on Arrival.
A. VOA Approval Letter Processing Time (Online Service for Indians):
This is the time it takes for your chosen visa agency to process your application and for the Vietnam Immigration Department to issue your Approval Letter.
- Standard Processing: Typically takes 2-3 working days, though some services quote 5-7 working days. Suitable if you have some time before your trip.
- Urgent Processing: Can be expedited to 1-2 working days or even within the same day (e.g., 4-8 working hours), often for an additional service fee.
- Emergency Processing: For very last-minute travel, some services offer processing within a few hours. This usually incurs the highest service fee and may require direct contact (e.g., via WhatsApp as indicated by some providers like +84.946.583.583).
B. VOA Approval Letter Service Fee (Paid Online to Agency by Indians):
This fee is paid to the visa agency for their service in facilitating your Approval Letter. It varies based on:
- The chosen processing speed (standard, urgent, emergency).
- The number of applicants in your group.
- The type of visa (e.g., 30 days single entry, 30 days multiple entry, 90 days single/multiple entry).
Indicative Fee Structure (based on common eVisa service pricing from Data 1 and typical VOA agency fees):
- 30 days single entry, standard processing: Approximately USD 15 – 48 per person (agency fees for the letter can start from around $15-25 for basic service, while more comprehensive support services might be higher).
- 30 days multiple entry, standard processing: Approximately USD 20 – 73 per person.
- For faster processing (e.g., 2-4 working days or emergency), expect higher fees (e.g., ranging from USD 63 to USD 105+ per person depending on urgency and visa type from support services, or specific agency rates for urgent letters).
Always confirm the exact service fee with your chosen provider before making payment.
C. Vietnam Visa Stamping Fee (Paid at Vietnam Airport by Indians):
This fee is paid directly to the Vietnamese Immigration Officer at the VOA counter at the airport, in USD cash. It’s advisable to carry exact change. These fees are fixed by the government.
- USD 25 for a single-entry visa (valid for 1 month or 3 months).
- USD 50 for a multiple-entry visa (valid for 1 month or 3 months).
Indian applicants should ensure they have this amount in USD cash ready upon arrival in Vietnam.
VIII. Critical Tips for a Smooth Vietnam VOA Experience for Indians
To ensure your Vietnam Visa on Arrival process for Indians is as smooth as possible:
- Use a Trusted VOA Service Provider: Do your research. Select a well-reviewed and reputable visa agency for your VOA Approval Letter application. This helps avoid scams or delays.
- Double-Check ALL Information: Before submitting your online application for the Approval Letter, meticulously verify that every piece of information (full name, date of birth, passport number, nationality, passport expiry date) perfectly matches the details on your Indian passport. Even minor errors can cause major issues or denial of boarding/entry.
- Verify Passport Validity and Blank Pages: Reconfirm that your Indian passport has at least 6 months of validity from your entry date and a minimum of two blank pages.
- Carry All Necessary Documents: Make a checklist: printed VOA Approval Letter (at least one copy, two is safer), original passport, two passport-sized photos (4×6 cm), completed Form NA1, and the exact amount of USD cash for the visa stamping fee.
- Understand Port of Entry Limitations: Remember, VOA is only valid for entry through the designated international airports in Vietnam. It’s not for land or sea entry.
- Arrival Date Flexibility: You can enter Vietnam on any date within the validity period stated on your VOA Approval Letter. However, you cannot enter before the specified arrival date on the letter. Earlier entry is not permitted.
- Prepare for Potential Queues: Depending on the time of day and number of arriving flights, there might be a queue at the VOA counter. Be patient. Consider a fast-track service if offered by your agency for a fee.
- Health Insurance: While not always a mandatory document for visa issuance, it is highly recommended to have comprehensive travel health insurance covering Vietnam. Additionally, being aware of Vietnam’s weather patterns for your travel dates can help you pack appropriately and plan activities.
IX. Vietnam VOA vs. Vietnam eVisa: Which is Better for Indian Citizens?
Both the Vietnam Visa on Arrival (VOA) and the Vietnam eVisa are popular options for Indian citizens. Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:
A. Vietnam Visa on Arrival (VOA) for Indians:
- Pros:
- Can sometimes be faster for urgent Approval Letter processing (at extra cost).
- An alternative if the e-visa application fails or if you prefer this method.
- Cons:
- Requires finding and paying a third-party agency for the VOA Approval Letter.
- Involves queuing at the airport VOA counter upon arrival.
- Requires carrying USD cash for the separate stamping fee.
- Only valid for air travel to specific international airports.
B. Vietnam eVisa for Indians:
Since August 15, 2023, Vietnam offers a significantly improved E-visa system:
- Eligibility: Available to citizens of ALL countries, including India.
- Validity: Up to 90 days.
- Entry Type: Single or Multiple entries allowed within the 90 days.
- Application: Done directly via the official Vietnam Immigration Portal (https://www.mofa.gov.vn/en – ensure you are on the official site).
- Cost: $25 USD for single entry, $50 USD for multiple entry (paid directly on the official website).
- Processing Time: Typically 3-5 working days (can take longer).
- Entry Points: Valid at numerous international airports, land borders, and seaports (check the official list).
Why E-visa is Often Preferred:
- Apply directly via the official government site (no agency needed for the visa itself).
- Pay everything online for the visa.
- No queuing at a separate VOA counter upon arrival.
- Valid for entry via air, land, and sea.
- Generally simpler and more streamlined for tourists planning ahead.
E-visa Requirements for Indians:
- Indian passport valid for at least 6 months beyond entry.
- Digital copy of passport data page (jpeg).
- Digital passport-style photo (jpeg, white background, no glasses, 4×6 cm proportions often work for upload).
- Valid international debit/credit card for payment.
C. Recommendation for Indian Citizens:
- For planned trips with sufficient time (at least 1-2 weeks before travel): The Vietnam eVisa is the more straightforward and recommended route. It allows direct online application, covers more entry points, and simplifies the arrival process.
- For urgent, short-notice trips, or if you specifically prefer the VOA process or encountered issues with eVisa: The Vietnam Visa on Arrival (with a pre-obtained Approval Letter) is an excellent and reliable solution.
X. Key Considerations & Terms
- Plan Ahead: Apply for either VOA approval letter or E-visa at least 7-10 working days before travel, more if possible.
- Validity: Ensure your passport meets the 6-month validity rule from date of entry.
- Accuracy: Double-check all information on your application (E-visa or VOA letter) matches your passport exactly. Errors can cause major issues.
- Visa Extension: Extending visas within Vietnam can be complex and costly. It’s best to apply for the correct duration initially. E-visas (up to 90 days) offer more flexibility. Generally, a VOA for 30 days can be extended for an additional 15 days within Vietnam by applying at the Immigration Department, but confirm current policies.
- Overstaying: Do NOT overstay your visa. Penalties include fines and potential deportation/future entry bans.
XI. FAQs: Vietnam Visa for Indians
Can I apply for a visa online?
Yes, Indian citizens can apply for an e-visa online through the official Vietnamese government website for e-visas. For Visa on Arrival, the Approval Letter application is done online through private visa agencies.
What are the requirements for an e-visa?
You will need an Indian passport valid for at least 6 months, a digital copy of your passport data page, a digital passport-style photo, and a valid international debit/credit card for payment. The e-visa application form will require your travel information.
Can I apply for a visa on arrival if I am Indian?
Yes, Vietnam visa on arrival for Indians is available at designated international airports in Vietnam. You must obtain a Visa Approval Letter online before you travel.
How do I apply for a visa on arrival?
1. Apply online for a Visa Approval Letter through a visa agency. 2. Receive the letter by email. 3. Upon arrival at a designated Vietnam airport, go to the VOA counter, submit your Approval Letter, passport, photos, completed NA1 form, and pay the stamping fee to get the visa sticker.
Can I extend my visa in Vietnam?
Yes, some visas can be extended. For Visa on Arrival (typically 30 days), an extension for an additional 15 days might be possible by applying at the Immigration Department in Vietnam. E-visas are generally not extendable; you’d need to exit and re-enter on a new visa if eligible. Always check the latest rules.
What happens if my visa expires before I leave Vietnam?
If your visa expires before you leave Vietnam, you will be subject to fines and possible deportation, and it may affect future travel to Vietnam.
Is it possible for Indians to travel to Vietnam without a visa?
No, Indian citizens require a visa to enter Vietnam, except for specific visa-exempt entry to Phu Quoc Island under certain conditions (direct flight, short stay, not transiting to mainland without visa).
What is the Vietnam visa cost for Indian citizens?
The cost depends on the type of visa:
- E-visa (via official government portal): USD $25 for single-entry (up to 90 days) or USD $50 for multiple-entry (up to 90 days).
- Visa on Arrival (VOA): This has two separate costs:
- Approval Letter Service Fee: Paid online to a private visa agency before travel. Varies by agency and processing speed (e.g., $15-25+ USD for standard, higher for urgent).
- Stamping Fee: Paid in cash (USD preferred) at the Vietnam airport upon arrival. USD $25 for a single-entry visa or USD $50 for a multiple-entry visa.
What is the official website to apply for a Vietnam visa for Indians?
The official government website for applying for the Vietnam E-visa is the Vietnam Immigration Department’s e-visa portal. You should ensure the website address is correct (e.g., starts with https://evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn/ or links from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs site like https://www.mofa.gov.vn/en). Be very cautious of non-official, commercial websites that may look similar but charge additional service fees for the e-visa itself.
Note: For the Visa on Arrival (VOA), you do not use the official government website to get the initial Visa Approval Letter. You must use a private online visa agency service for that step.
What is the processing time for a Vietnam E-visa for Indians?
The standard processing time for a Vietnam E-visa, applied for through the official portal, is typically 3 to 5 working days. This excludes weekends (Saturday and Sunday) and Vietnamese public holidays. It can occasionally take longer. Apply at least 1-2 weeks before your intended travel date.
What is the required photo size for a Vietnam visa for Indians?
Photo requirements:
- For E-visa: You need to upload a digital photo file (in .jpeg format). It should follow standard passport photo guidelines: recent (within 6 months), clear, front-facing view of your full face, plain white background, and no glasses. Proportions similar to a 4×6 cm photo are generally fine for upload.
- For Visa on Arrival (VOA): You need to bring two physical, printed passport photos with you to present at the VOA counter. The standard required size is typically 4 cm x 6 cm. These must also meet standard passport requirements.
XII. Conclusion: Vietnam Visa on Arrival – A Key Option for Indian Travellers
For Indian travelers heading to Vietnam, understanding visa options is key. While the Vietnam visa for Indians on arrival (VOA) is available, it requires obtaining a pre-approved Visa Approval Letter before flying and involves paying a stamping fee in cash at specific airports.
For most tourists, especially those planning in advance and potentially entering via land or sea, the Vietnam E-visa is the more straightforward and recommended route. It allows direct online application, covers more entry points, and simplifies the arrival process.
The Vietnam Visa on Arrival (VOA) offers a vital and convenient visa solution for Indian citizens, especially for urgent entry into Vietnam. The non-negotiable cornerstone of this process is securing the VOA Approval Letter online BEFORE flying to Vietnam.
By understanding the requirements, preparing documents meticulously (including Indian passport, Approval Letter, photos, stamping fee), and arriving at a designated Vietnam international airport, Indian travellers can look forward to a smooth and hassle-free entry process.
Whichever method you choose, apply well in advance, ensure all details are correct, and check the latest official regulations and fees with your chosen service provider or the Vietnamese authorities before your trip, as policies can sometimes be updated. Enjoy your incredible journey to Vietnam!
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