Vietnam visa on arrival vs Vietnam evisa: Which one should you choose?
When planning a trip to Vietnam, there are two main options for obtaining a visa - Vietnam Visa on Arrival (VOA) and Vietnam eVisa. Understanding the difference between these two options is important to ensure a hassle-free experience when entering the country.
Major Differences
One of the main differences between visa on arrival and eVisa is the processing time. With the e-visa, the processing time can take up to 7-10 working days, while with visa on arrival, the processing time is usually within 24-48 hours. Additionally, with visa on arrival, there is no need to visit a Vietnamese embassy or consulate as the entire process can be done online, making it a more convenient option for many travelers.
Updates: As of 2024, The option of getting a visa on arrival is now limited to travelers who visit Vietnam as part of an organized tour arranged by a local tour operator.
| Items | Visa on arrival | E-visa |
|---|---|---|
| Year of Introduction | Early 2007 | February 2017 |
| Issued by | Immigration Department of Vietnam | Immigration Department of Vietnam |
| Eligibility | For air travelers (150+ countries) | Citizens from all countries |
| Visa validity | 1/3 month multiple entry, 6 month and 1 year multiple entry (US passports only) | Maximum 90-day single/multiple entry |
| Good for | Tourism/Business/Family or relative visits | Tourism / business / family visit (Short term visits, 30 days) |
| Fees | 2 Fees: Approval letter fee + Stamping fee (25 USD for single entry, 50 USD for multiple entry) | 25 USD/50 USD (non-refundable) |
| Processing time: | 2 working days for standard processing, 2 hours for emergency processing, also available for emergency on weekend | 3-5 working days (expedited service available) |
| Ports of entry: | International airports in Vietnam (05): Hanoi, Hai Phong, Da Nang, Nha Trang & Ho Chi Minh City | 42 entry ports including air, sea and overland |
| How to apply | Apply online for an approval letter and receive the approval letter by email, then get the visa on arrival at Vietnam airport. | Apply online and download the e-visa through the status page in 3 working days* |
| Official website | None (All websites providing visa on arrival service are private agencies, be aware of fake government websites) | National e-visa portal (https://evisa.gov.vn/) |
| Support | Prompt support over phone, email, live chat or whatsapp anytime | Phone/ Email support (foreigners@xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn) |
Note: *Some of our customers reported that they receive the e-visa document after the 5th working day.
Which one to choose?
- If you are in emergency situation, visa on arrival is the way to go as it takes only 2 working hours to obtain the approval letter (even on weekend).
- If you want a longer term visa (3 month, 6 months) or for business purposes, visa on arrival is beneficial for your needs.
- If you do not want to wait at Vietnam airport or arrive by land, e-visa is the best way to obtain your visa to Vietnam.
Questions and Answers (08)
Good work. I have 2 questions for you. I would be glad if you answer. We are Turkish citizens, 4 friends. We have a plan to visit Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang and Hanoi in April for 15 days. Question 1. When do I need to apply for a visa for April? Question 2. Do I only receive a visa approval letter from you? Do I need to apply for an additional visa after your invitation approval? Thank you. I am writing this message with translation!
@Huseyin Ozturk, visa on arrival is currently available only for emergency entries. As a Turkish passport holder, you are eligible to apply for an e-visa. You can proceed with your application on the official website below:
https://evisa.gov.vn/
I am travellers to Vietnam in March and staying for 2 months. Can I apply for evisa or must I complete all papers on arrival ?
@Melissa Wildschut, You can apply for a 3-month e-visa to stay in Vietnam for 2 months in March next year; all can be done online in advance.
Frequently asked questions
1. I am a South Africa passport holder, can I apply for an e-visa?
Unfortunately, e-visa is not available to South African citizens at the moment. If you are joining an organized tour in Vietnam, you can consider using visa on arrival instead.
Contact sales if you have additional questions.
Contact support if you already submitted your visa application on our website.
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