Landing Visa Vietnam Overview, Application Process, Eligibility Criteria 2023

Landing Visa Vietnam Overview, Application Process, Eligibility Criteria

The process of obtaining a visa can often be complex and confusing, especially when it comes to visiting a country like Vietnam. The Landing Visa Vietnam is a popular option for those who wish to visit Vietnam for a short duration. In this article, we will provide an in-depth overview of the landing visa for Vietnam, including the application process, eligibility criteria, duration and validity, cost and fees, required documents, restrictions and limitations, renewal and extension options, arrival procedures, as well as alternative visa options for visiting Vietnam.

Landing Visa Vietnam: Overview

The landing visa, also referred to as a visa on arrival, is a type of visa that allows travelers to enter Vietnam without obtaining a visa from a Vietnamese embassy or consulate prior to their departure. This visa is typically granted upon arrival at one of Vietnam’s international airports.

Summary:

• The landing visa is also known as a visa on arrival.
• It allows travelers to enter Vietnam without obtaining a visa beforehand.
• The visa is granted upon arrival at international airports in Vietnam.

Application Process for Landing Visa Vietnam

The application process for a landing visa Vietnam involves several steps. Firstly, travelers need to apply for a visa approval letter online through a reputable travel agency or a government-approved website. This letter serves as proof of pre-approval for the landing visa. The applicant is required to provide personal information, including their full name, passport details, intended date of arrival, and port of entry. Additionally, the applicant must pay a processing fee for the visa approval letter.

Once the visa approval letter is issued, the applicant needs to print it out and bring it along with other necessary documents to the designated landing visa counter at the chosen international airport in Vietnam. The applicant will then submit the visa approval letter, their passport, completed entry and exit form (available for download online), two passport-sized photos, and the visa stamping fee in cash.

After submitting the documents and paying the visa stamping fee, the applicant will have their passport stamped with the landing visa, allowing them to enter Vietnam legally.

Summary:

• Apply for a visa approval letter through a reputable travel agency or government-approved website.
• Provide personal information and pay a processing fee.
• Print the visa approval letter and bring it along with other required documents to the landing visa counter at the designated international airport.
• Submit the visa approval letter, passport, completed entry and exit form, photos, and visa stamping fee in cash.
• Receive the landing visa stamp on the passport.

Eligibility Criteria for Landing Visa Vietnam

The landing visa is available to citizens of most countries; however, there are certain eligibility criteria that applicants must meet. These criteria include:

1. Passport validity: The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of arrival in Vietnam.
2. Intended purpose of visit: The landing visa is suitable for tourists, business travelers, and those visiting friends or relatives in Vietnam. It is not intended for long-term stays, employment, or study purposes.
3. Arrival by air: The landing visa is only applicable for those arriving by air into one of Vietnam’s international airports. Travelers arriving by land or sea must obtain a different type of visa.
4. Return/onward ticket: Applicants must have a confirmed return or onward ticket from Vietnam.
5. Sponsorship requirement: Unlike some other visa types, the landing visa does not require a sponsor or invitation letter.

It’s important to note that eligibility requirements may vary slightly depending on the applicant’s nationality. It is advisable to check with the relevant authorities or consult with a travel agent to ensure eligibility before applying for a landing visa.

Summary:

• Passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the arrival date.
• Suitable for tourists, business travelers, and those visiting friends or relatives.
• Applicable for air arrivals only.
• Must have a confirmed return or onward ticket.
• No sponsorship requirement.

Duration and Validity of Landing Visa Vietnam

The landing visa allows travelers to stay in Vietnam for a specific duration. The length of stay can vary depending on the type of visa issued and the traveler’s nationality. Typically, the landing visa offers single-entry access and allows for stays of up to 30 days. However, it is possible to apply for an extension or renewal if needed.

The validity period of the landing visa is usually specified in the visa approval letter. It indicates the dates within which the traveler can enter Vietnam. It’s crucial to pay attention to these dates and ensure compliance with the visa’s validity to avoid any complications during the trip.

Summary:

• Allows for stays of up to 30 days.
• Possibility of extension or renewal.
• Validity period specified in the visa approval letter.

Cost and Fees Associated with Landing Visa Vietnam

Obtaining a landing visa Vietnam involves several costs and fees. These feescan include the following:

1. Visa approval letter fee: This fee is paid online during the application process for the visa approval letter. The amount can vary depending on the travel agency or website chosen, but it is typically around $15-$25 USD.
2. Visa stamping fee: This fee is paid in cash at the landing visa counter upon arrival in Vietnam. The amount also varies depending on the traveler’s nationality and the type of visa, but it is generally around $25-$50 USD for a single-entry visa.

It’s important to note that these fees are subject to change, and it’s advisable to check the latest information before applying for a landing visa.

Summary:

• Visa approval letter fee: Around $15-$25 USD.
• Visa stamping fee: Around $25-$50 USD for a single-entry visa.

Documents Required for Landing Visa Vietnam

When applying for a landing visa Vietnam, certain documents are required. These documents may include:

1. Passport: A valid passport with a minimum validity of six months beyond the date of arrival in Vietnam.
2. Completed entry and exit form: This form is available for download from the official Vietnamese immigration website or provided by the travel agency. It must be filled out accurately and completely.
3. Visa approval letter: The printed copy of the visa approval letter obtained through the online application process.
4. Two passport-sized photos: Recent photos that meet the specific requirements set by the Vietnamese immigration authorities.
5. Cash for visa stamping fee: Sufficient cash in the appropriate currency (usually USD) to pay the visa stamping fee at the landing visa counter.

It’s essential to have these documents ready and organized before arriving in Vietnam to ensure a smooth entry process.

Summary:

• Valid passport with a minimum validity of six months.
• Completed entry and exit form.
• Visa approval letter.
• Two passport-sized photos.
• Sufficient cash for the visa stamping fee.

Restrictions and Limitations of Landing Visa Vietnam

While the landing visa provides a convenient option for visiting Vietnam, there are certain restrictions and limitations to be aware of:

1. Length of stay: The landing visa allows for stays of up to 30 days. If you plan to stay longer, you must apply for an extension or choose a different type of visa.
2. Single-entry access: The landing visa typically offers single-entry access, which means that once you leave Vietnam, you cannot re-enter using the same visa. If you plan to exit and re-enter Vietnam during your trip, you will need to apply for a new visa or consider alternative visa options.
3. Limited purpose of visit: The landing visa is primarily intended for tourism, business visits, or visiting friends and relatives. Engaging in other activities such as employment or study requires a different type of visa.
4. Arrival by air only: The landing visa is applicable for travelers arriving at one of Vietnam’s international airports by air. If you plan to enter Vietnam by land or sea, you will need to obtain a different visa in advance.
5. Restrictions on extension: While it is possible to extend or renew the landing visa in certain cases, there are limitations on the maximum duration of stay and the number of extensions allowed. It’s important to check the specific regulations and consult with immigration authorities if you require an extension.

Summary:

• Maximum stay of 30 days.
• Single-entry access.
• Limited purpose of visit (primarily for tourism, business, or visiting friends/relatives).
• Applicable for arrivals by air only.
• Restrictions on extension and renewal.

Renewal and Extension of Landing Visa Vietnam

If you wish to extend your stay beyond the initial period granted by the landing visa, it is possible to apply for an extension or renewal under certain circumstances. The process and requirements for renewal or extension may vary depending on the specific situation, and it’s advisable to consult with the relevant immigration authorities for detailed information.

To extend or renew a landing visa, travelers typically need to submit an application form, their passport, and other supporting documents such as flight itineraries, hotel bookings, or proof of financial stability. It’s important to note that extensions are not automatically granted, and approval is subject to the discretion of the immigration authorities.

Extensions usually allow for additional stays of 15 days or 30 days, depending on the type of extension granted. It’s essential to apply for an extension well before the expiration of the initial landing visa to avoid overstaying and potential penalties.

Summary:

• Extension or renewal is possible under certain circumstances.
• Requirements and process vary based on individual situations.
• Submit application form, passport, and supporting documents.
• Extensions allow for additional stays of 15 or 30 days.
• Apply for an extension in advance to avoid penalties.

Arrival Procedures for Landing Visa Holders in Vietnam

Upon arrivalin Vietnam, landing visa holders need to follow specific procedures to ensure a smooth entry:

1. Arrival at the airport: After disembarking from the aircraft, proceed to the immigration area. Follow signs or ask airport staff for directions if needed.
2. Complete the entry and exit form: Fill out the entry and exit form that you have previously downloaded or received from the flight attendant. Make sure to provide accurate and complete information.
3. Submit documents at the landing visa counter: Locate the landing visa counter, which is usually separate from the regular immigration counters. Present your passport, visa approval letter, completed entry and exit form, two passport-sized photos, and the visa stamping fee in cash.
4. Wait for processing: The immigration officer will review your documents and process your landing visa. This may take some time depending on the number of arrivals.
5. Receive landing visa stamp: Once your landing visa has been approved, the immigration officer will stamp it onto a page in your passport. Check the stamped visa carefully to ensure accuracy.
6. Collect your luggage: Proceed to the baggage claim area to collect your checked-in luggage.
7. Proceed through customs: After collecting your luggage, proceed to the customs area. Follow the instructions and declare any items as required by Vietnamese customs regulations.
8. Exit the airport: Finally, head towards the exit where you will be greeted by family, friends, or transportation services.

It’s important to note that the arrival procedures may vary slightly depending on the airport and specific circumstances. It’s advisable to follow the instructions provided by airport authorities and immigration officers.

Summary:

1. Arrive at the airport and proceed to the immigration area.
2. Complete the entry and exit form accurately.
3. Submit documents at the landing visa counter.
4. Wait for the processing of your landing visa.
5. Receive the landing visa stamp on your passport.
6. Collect your luggage from the baggage claim area.
7. Proceed through customs and declare any necessary items.
8. Exit the airport.

Alternatives to Landing Visa for Visiting Vietnam

While the landing visa is a popular option for visiting Vietnam, there are alternative visa options available depending on the purpose and duration of your visit. These alternatives include:

1. E-visa: The Vietnamese government offers e-visas, which can be obtained online before traveling to Vietnam. E-visas are available for citizens of eligible countries and allow for stays of up to 30 days for tourism, business, or visiting purposes.
2. Tourist visa: If you plan to stay in Vietnam for an extended period or have specific travel plans, you may consider applying for a tourist visa at a Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your home country. Tourist visas offer longer durations of stay and multiple-entry options.
3. Business visa: If your visit to Vietnam is primarily for business purposes, such as attending meetings, conferences, or exploring business opportunities, you may consider applying for a business visa. Business visas typically offer longer stays and more flexibility for business-related activities.
4. Work visa or permit: If you intend to work in Vietnam, you will need to obtain a work visa or work permit through your employer. The process for obtaining a work visa involves several steps and requires sponsorship from a Vietnamese company or organization.

It’s important to carefully assess your travel plans and requirements to determine the most suitable visa option for your visit to Vietnam. Consulting with immigration authorities or seeking assistance from a reputable travel agency can help ensure a smooth visa application process.

Summary:

• E-visa: Available online for eligible countries, allows for stays of up to 30 days.
• Tourist visa: Longer durations of stay, multiple-entry options.
• Business visa: Suitable for business-related visits, longer stays, more flexibility.
• Work visa or permit: Required for employment in Vietnam, involves sponsorship and specific requirements.

Conclusion Landing Visa Vietnam

In conclusion, the landing visa provides a convenient option for travelers who wish to visit Vietnam for a short duration. This article has provided an overview of the landing visa, including the application process, eligibility criteria, duration and validity, cost and fees, required documents, restrictions and limitations, renewal and extension options, arrival procedures, as well as alternative visa options for visiting Vietnam.

It’s important to thoroughly understand the requirements and procedures associated with the landing visa to ensure a smooth entry into Vietnam. Additionally, considering alternative visa options based on the purpose and duration of your visit can help meet your specific travel needs.

Remember to stay updated with the latest information regarding visa regulations and consult with the relevant authorities or travel professionals for any specific inquiries or concerns. Enjoy your visit to Vietnam!