How to enter Vietnam with Visa on arrival

Vietnam visa on arrival (VOA)  is a type of visa that allows foreigners to enter Vietnam by applying online and receiving an approval letter via email. The approval letter grants permission to board a flight to Vietnam and get a visa stamp at one of the international airports in Vietnam. Visa on arrival is a convenient way beside the E-Visa to get Visa to Vietnam instead of submitting for the complex Visa procedures at the Vietnam Embassies.

Entering Vietnam with a visa on arrival (VOA) is a convenient option for many travelers, but it’s important to follow the steps carefully to avoid any hiccups at the airport. Here’s a breakdown of the process:

Before you travel:

  1. Apply for a visa approval letter online through a travel agency or a website that offers this service [link website], and receive the approval letter by email.
  2. Print out the approval letter and bring it with you to Vietnam, along with your passporttwo passport-sized portrait photos, and the Vietnam Visa stamping fee in cash (USD is preferred). Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your arrival date.

Upon Landing Vietnam

  1. Go to the Visa Landing counter (VOA counter): When you arrive at your Vietnamese airport, proceed to the Visa Landing counter. You’ll typically find them in the immigration hall.
  2. Present your documents: Show your passport, a recent passport-sized portrait photo, your completed entry/exit form (provided on the plane or at the airport), and your printed VOA approval letter to the Immigration Officers at the Visa Landing counter at one of the international airports in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or Da Nang,..
  3. Pay the stamping fee: You’ll need to pay a stamping fee in cash (USD is preferred). The amount varies depending on the validity period and number of entries of your VOA. Please check the Vietnam Visa stamping fee here.
  4. Get your visa stamped: The immigration officer will review your documents and, if everything is in order, they will issue you a visa stamp on your passport.
  5. Receive your Passport with the stamped Visa and check your information on Visa. If all are good, do customs procedures and enjoy your stay in Vietnam.

Please note that the visa on arrival is only applicable for air travelers who arrive at one of the three international airports in Vietnam.  If you plan to enter Vietnam by land or sea, you need to apply for a visa through an online e-visa system or at the Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your country. 

By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free entry into Vietnam using a visa on arrival. Have a great trip to Vietnam!