Quick Guide to Obtaining a Vietnam Visa at the Last Minute

Organizing a last-minute trip to Vietnam can be a thrilling experience, but it can also bring about some stress, particularly when it comes to acquiring a visa. The process of applying for a visa in Vietnam can be intricate and lengthy, and there is always the possibility of your application being denied if you fail to provide the necessary documents or make errors on your application form. However, if you find yourself in need of a visa for Vietnam at short notice, there’s no need to worry. There are several steps you can take to improve your chances of obtaining a swift and successful visa approval.

Last minute Visa Vietnam

Vietnam has become a popular tourist destination in recent years, with its beautiful landscapes, rich culture, and delicious food. However, as with any international travel, a visa is required for most visitors to enter the country. This can be a daunting task, especially if you are applying for a visa at the last minute. But fear not, we have put together some tips and tricks to help you navigate the visa application process for Vietnam and make your trip planning a little less stressful.

Last Minute Visum Vietnam

If you are in need of a visa for Vietnam at the last minute, there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure a smooth application process. Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind:

1. Check the Expiry Date of Your Passport:  Prior to beginning the procedure for obtaining a visa, it is essential to confirm that your passport remains valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of arrival in Vietnam. In the event that your passport is due to expire within the next six months, it will be necessary to renew it before initiating the visa application process.
2. Apply for an E-Visa: Vietnam offers e-visas for citizens of 80 countries, including the United States, Canada, and Australia. This is a quick and convenient option for last-minute travelers as the e-visa can be applied for online and is usually processed within three business days.
3. Consider Using a Visa on Arrival Service:  If you are not able to submit an application for an electronic visa, an alternative is to utilize a visa on arrival service. This entails obtaining a pre-approval letter from a Vietnamese travel agency or tour company, which you will then present at the airport upon your arrival to acquire your visa. It is important to note that this procedure may take up to two working days, therefore it is essential to plan accordingly.

Last Minute Visum Vietnam

Aside from the general suggestions outlined earlier, there are certain factors to take into account when seeking a last-minute visa for Vietnam. Here are some crucial aspects to bear in mind.

1. Be Prepared with Your Documents: The key to a successful visa application is having all the necessary documents ready. Make sure to have your passport, completed visa application form, and any other required documents such as proof of accommodation and travel itinerary.
2. Double Check Your Application Form: It is crucial to double-check your application form before submitting it. Any mistakes or missing information could result in your application being rejected. Take your time and make sure all the information is accurate and matches your supporting documents.
3. Pay Attention to the New Visa Policy:  In the year 2020, Vietnam introduced a fresh visa regulation which permits nationals from 80 different countries to enter the country without a visa for a maximum of 15 days. This list includes prominent nations like Japan, South Korea, and Russia. If you happen to be a citizen of one of these countries and are considering a brief visit to Vietnam, you may not have to go through the process of obtaining a visa at all.

Vietnam Visa Expiry Date

One of the most common concerns for travelers applying for a visa at the last minute is the expiry date of their visa. Here are some important points to keep in mind regarding visa expiry dates for Vietnam:

1. Validity Period: The validity period of a tourist visa for Vietnam can range from one month to one year, depending on the type of visa you apply for. Make sure to check the expiry date of your visa before traveling to avoid any issues at the immigration checkpoint.
2. Extension Options: If you find yourself needing to stay in Vietnam longer than the validity period of your visa, you can apply for an extension at the Immigration Department in Vietnam. However, this process can take up to seven business days, so it is best to plan accordingly and apply for a longer visa if needed.
3. Overstaying Your Visa: It is important to note that overstaying your visa in Vietnam can result in fines and even deportation. Make sure to adhere to the expiry date of your visa to avoid any legal issues.

Vietnam New Visa Policy

As mentioned before, Vietnam implemented a new visa policy in 2020 that has made it easier for citizens from certain countries to enter without a visa. It is important to pay attention to the following important information regarding this revised visa policy.

1. Eligible Countries:  Residents from 80 nations can now enter Vietnam without a visa for a maximum of 15 days. These countries include notable ones like Germany, France, and the United Kingdom. To view the complete list of qualifying nations, please refer to the official website of the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism.
2. Purpose of Travel: The visa exemption only applies to tourists visiting Vietnam for leisure purposes. If you are planning to work or study in Vietnam, you will still need to apply for a visa.
3. Entry Points: The visa exemption is only valid for entry through certain airports, including Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and Phu Quoc Island. If you are entering Vietnam through a different port of entry, you will need to apply for a visa.

Q&As Last Minute Visa Vietnam

“What exactly is a last-minute visa for Vietnam?”

A last-minute Vietnam visa is a visa that can be obtained quickly and easily, even if you are traveling to Vietnam in the next few days. There are two main types of last-minute Vietnam visas:

• Visa on arrival (VOA): This type of visa can be obtained at major international airports in Vietnam. You will need to fill out a visa application form and pay the visa fee. You will then be issued a visa-on-arrival stamp on your passport.
• E-visa: This type of visa can be obtained online. You will need to fill out an online application form and upload a scan of your passport. You will then be issued an e-visa that you can print out and present at the airport upon arrival in Vietnam.

“Steps to Obtain a Vietnam Visa on Short Notice”

To apply for a last-minute Vietnam visa, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Choose the type of visa you want to apply for. Visa on arrival is the fastest option, but e-visa is more convenient if you have time to spare.
2. Complete the visa application form. The application form will ask for your personal information, passport details, and travel itinerary.
3. Pay the visa fee. The visa fee can be paid online or at the airport.
4. Receive your visa. If you are applying for a VOA, you will receive your visa on arrival stamp in your passport. If you are applying for an e-visa, you will receive your e-visa by email.

Processing times for last-minute Vietnam visas

The processing time for a last-minute Vietnam visa depends on the type of visa you apply for:

• VOA: The processing time for a VOA is usually 15-30 minutes.
• E-visa: The processing time for an e-visa is usually 2-3 working days.

Tips for applying for a last-minute Vietnam visa

Here are some tips for applying for a last-minute Vietnam visa:

• Start the process as early as possible. Even though last-minute visas are possible, it is always best to start the process as early as possible to avoid any problems.
• Have all of your documents ready. You will need to have your passport, a recent passport-sized photo, and a valid travel document ready when you apply for your visa.
• Be prepared to pay the visa fee. The visa fee can be paid online or at the airport.
• Allow enough time to get to the airport. If you are applying for a VOA, you will need to allow enough time to get to the airport and complete the visa application process before your flight departs.

Conclusion

Securing a visa to Vietnam at the eleventh hour can be a nerve-wracking experience, but with adequate knowledge and readiness, it can be a seamless and trouble-free procedure. It is crucial to select the appropriate visa category, collect all essential paperwork, and pay close attention to critical factors like the validity of your visa and any recent changes in the visa regulations. By adhering to these guidelines, you can guarantee a successful visa application and have a worry-free trip to Vietnam.