Planning to visit Vietnam? Understanding the tourist visa process is essential. A Vietnam tourist visa is an official document granted by Vietnamese authorities allowing foreign nationals to enter and stay in Vietnam for tourism purposes.

The most common option today is the E-visa, which can be obtained online through Vietnam’s Immigration Department, valid for up to 90 days with single or multiple entry options at a cost of $25-$50. This guide provides comprehensive information about Vietnam’s tourist visa procedures, focusing on types, validity periods, application requirements, processing times, and fees for foreign travelers in 2023. We’ll explore the different visa categories available, required documentation, submission methods, and recent policy changes that have expanded options for tourists.

Whether you’re wondering about visa duration, application procedures, processing times, associated costs, or have other questions, this article covers everything you need to know. For those needing assistance, we also discuss professional visa services available to streamline your application process. Let’s dive into the details of obtaining a tourist visa for your upcoming Vietnam adventure.

Types of Vietnam tourist visa options

Vietnam offers different types of visas for tourists. According to Law No. 51/2019/QH14, foreigners can apply for:

DL visa for tourists

This visa requires sponsorship from a travel agency in Vietnam. It’s for tourists who are visiting through organized tours or with help from travel companies. Many travelers obtain this visa through a Vietnam invitation letter which serves as official sponsorship documentation.

Tourists e-visa

The Vietnam tourist e-visa lets you apply online without needing a sponsor. Many travelers choose this option because it’s simple and easy to use. Vietnam tourist visa application process is straightforward and can be completed from anywhere with internet access.

How long can you stay with a Vietnam tourist visa?

A DL visa allows you to stay in Vietnam for up to 30 days with single-entry. This means you can enter Vietnam once and must leave within 30 days.

E-visas are more flexible, letting you stay from 30 to 90 days. You can also choose between single entry or multiple entries.

Step-by-Step Vietnam tourist visa application procedure

The steps to get a Vietnam visa depend on whether you’re applying for a DL visa or an e-visa:

Step 1. Get an approval letter

First, you need an approval letter from Vietnam Immigration:

• A company or travel agency in Vietnam must apply for you. They will need:
  • Application form (NA2 form)
  • Copy of your passport (valid for at least 6 months)
  • Your travel plan

This process usually takes 7-10 working days. After approval, you’ll get an official letter that you must print.

Step 2. Prepare documents and get visa stamped

With your approval letter, you can get your visa at a Vietnamese Embassy or at the airport when you arrive. Many travelers choose the convenient Vietnam visa on arrival option, which allows you to obtain your visa directly at major international airports in Vietnam.

At Vietnamese Embassy abroad:

• Printed approval letter
• Filled-in visa application form
• Your passport
• Passport photos
• Visa fee

At Vietnam Airports:

• Visa fee
• Printed approval letter
• Filled-in NA1 form
• Two 4×6cm photos that meet the Vietnam visa photo size standards
• Your passport (valid for at least 6 months)

Complete Vietnam e-visa application guide for tourists

Applying for an e-visa is simpler and can be done completely online. The Vietnam tourist visa requirements for e-visa include:

• Valid passport (good for at least 6 months) with 2 blank pages
• Two passport photos (4x6cm)
• Clear digital images of your passport information page
• Credit card or bank account for payment

Application steps

1. Go to the official e-visa website: https://evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn
2. Read and agree to the rules
3. Click “Apply here” and create an account
4. Upload your photos and passport scan
5. Fill out the Vietnam visa application form with your:
   • Personal information
   • Visa details
   • Passport information
   • Contact details
   • Job information
   • Travel plans
6. Check all information carefully
7. Pay the fee online
8. Wait 7-10 days for processing
9. Check your application status and download your e-visa if approved

Processing times for Vietnam tourist visas

The time needed to get your Vietnam visa depends on how you apply:

• Getting the approval letter for DL visas usually takes 7-10 working days. It may take longer during busy tourist seasons or holidays.

• Once you have the approval letter, getting your visa stamp at the airport or embassy usually takes 30 minutes to 1 hour. The waiting time depends on how many other travelers are there, what time and day you arrive, and if it’s a weekend or holiday. During busy travel seasons, expect longer waiting times.

If you have a tight schedule, apply at least 2-3 weeks before your trip to allow for any delays.

>>> For a smoother arrival experience, especially at busy airports like Tan Son Nhat in Ho Chi Minh City, consider using the airport fast track Vietnam service to bypass long immigration queues.

Vietnam tourist visa fees

This fee is for visas stamped at Vietnam’s airports. Fees at embassies abroad may be different depending on your country. You may pay extra fees when using visa agencies or express services.

Frequently asked questions about Vietnamese tourist visas

Why choose VisaNow for your Vietnam tourist visa application?

VisaNow helps foreigners get Vietnam tourist visas. Each year, we help over 5,000 foreigners and 1,000+ businesses with visa applications across Vietnam. Our team speaks multiple languages and provides support throughout the visa process.

Benefits of choosing VisaNow for your Vietnam tourist visa

• Helpful support: Our experienced team knows visa rules well and will guide you every step of the way.
• Save time: We prepare all documents correctly, saving you time and effort.
• Clear pricing: We tell you all costs upfront, with no hidden fees.

If you are seeking a reliable, swift and professional service for your Vietnam tourist visa application, contact VisaNow through our HOTLINE at 1900 63 63 50. We are confident in our role as a trusted partner, dedicated to safeguarding our clients’ interests in our Vietnam visa service.