About Vietnam
Vietnam, a beautiful country with a varied history, is also known as the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. The country is Indochina Peninsula’s easternmost country. Vietnam offers numerous serene views throughout the country that symbolize the natural appeal and scenery of the country. For such a beautiful country, the past of the country has been marred with wars. However, the tourism sector of the country has been prospering and is one of the biggest contributors to the economy. Moreover, the tourism sector is experiencing perpetual growth, especially during the last decade. Additionally, the urban development of Vietnam has also experienced substantial growth, signifying the progress the country has made.
Why is Vietnam Visa Needed?
Citizens of most foreign countries require a Vietnam visa to enter and exit any one of the three international airports in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang. There are some countries whose citizens do not have to apply for a visa to enter Vietnam but Indian citizens need to have a valid visa to enter the country.
Vietnam Visa Eligibility
One of the most important things that you need to remember while applying for a visa is that the eligibility and requirements differ based on the type of visa you are applying for. However, you also need to remember that the type of visa that you should apply for depends on the nature and purpose of your visit. While there are many types of visas but primarily there are three types of visas:
Tourist Visa: A tourist visa is needed when you wish to visit Vietnam to revel in the tourist attractions offered by the country or if you wish to family or friends that are residents of the country, both permanent and temporary.
Work Visa: A work visa is needed if you need to visit Vietnam for any professional reason such as a business or working for a company.
Transit Visa: Transit visa is different compared to the other two visas mentioned above. It is only issued for a small duration, anywhere between a few hours and a few days. You should apply for a transit visa if you have a flight or ship in and out of the country.
Vietnam Visa Application Process
How to Apply for Vietnam Visa
The application process for a Vietnam visa is not as complicated when compared to some of the other nations. That being said, it is imperative that you familiarize yourself with the process and amass all relevant information before you start the application process.
Apply Vietnam visa online
You can apply for the Vietnam visa online which is known as the Vietnam Visa on Arrival (VOA). You have to visit the website: www.vietnamvisa.govt.vn and download the approval letter after filling in the necessary information. You visa will be at the airport that you choose to land in Vietnam.
Important Note: From 2015, Indian nationality is categorized in difficult nationality groups, with higher visa approval letter fee, passport copy and return flight tickets requirements.
Vietnam visa application process steps are:
Step 1 — You will need to fill out a quick application form online, it requires you to mention the airport at which you will be arriving in addition to you date of arrival.
Step 2 — Pay the visa servicing fee online
Step 3 — You will receive an official approval letter for Vietnam visa within two business days, it will be issued by the Vietnam Immigration Department
Step 4 — You will need to take a printout of the Approval Letter and prepare two (4cm x 6cm) photos of yourself
Step 5 — Bring the printed Approval Letter, photos, and the government Stamping Fee (along with your passport and any other required documents) with you on your trip to Vietnam
Step 6 — When you arrive at your destination airport in Vietnam, show the Approval Letter and photos at the Immigration office
Where to Apply for Vietnam Visa?
To apply for a Vietnam visa, you will need to visit: www.vietnamvisa.govt.vn, the official site of the Vietnam Immigration Department. You will need to fill the form online and download a print out.
How to Book Appointment?
One of the best things about the Vietnam visa application process is that you do not have to book an appointment. You will just need to take your print out along with relevant documents and photographs of yourself when you land at one of the international airports in Vietnam. You will have your appointment to stamp the visa once you reach.
Vietnam Visa Document Requirements
Along with your visa application, you will also need to provide relevant documents that provide the necessary information. The Vietnam visa document requirements are mentioned below:
- The application form should be completed and signed by the applicant
- Valid passport that should have at least two of its pages blank and should not be more than a decade old. Additionally, no amendment or alteration (handwritten) should exist on the data page
- Two photographs
- Valid permit of return (may not be applicable in every case)
- Cover letter: it should explain the nature and purpose of of the trip
- Travel itinerary in case of round-trip flight bookings
- Copy of the present passport in its entirety
- Original(s) of previous passport(s) or proof of loss
In addition to the documents mentioned above, you may also need to provide other relevant documents depending on the type of visa you are applying for. However, the immigration department of Vietnam at the embassy in India will update you about the types of documents that will be required.
Important note: It is imperative that the information provided by you in the visa application matches that on the documents provided by you, including the passport.
Vietnam Tourist Visa
What is Vietnam Tourist Visa?
A tourist visa is needed when you wish to visit Vietnam to revel in the tourist attractions offered by the country or if you wish to family or friends that are residents of the country, both permanent and temporary.
Duration of Vietnam Tourist Visa
Generally, the duration of Vietnam tourist visa is 15-30 days. However, you can extend the duration of tourist visa once your reach Vietnam.
Eligibility Criteria for Vietnam Tourist Visa
The eligibility criterion for Vietnam tourist visa is the same as the general eligibility criteria for visa applications mentioned above.
Application process for Vietnam Tourist Visa
The application process for Vietnam tourist visa is the same as the general application process for visa applications mentioned above.
Documents required for Vietnam Tourist Visa
1. Visa application form
2. 2 Recent Photographs (taken within 6 months, coloured, 2 inch x 2 inch)
3. Passport with at least SIX months validity and at least TWO blank pages.
4. Supporting documents.
5. Photocopy of passport
6. Visa Fee (as per Fee schedule)