When planning a trip to Vietnam, you have two main visa options:
- the Vietnam Visa on Arrival (VOA)
- the Vietnam eVisa.
Knowing the differences between Vietnam Visa on Arrival vs Vietnam eVisa is crucial for a smooth and hassle-free entry into the country.
1. Major Differences Between Vietnam Visa on Arrival vs Vietnam eVisa
The primary difference between Vietnam Visa on Arrival vs Vietnam eVisa is their processing times. An eVisa typically takes 7-10 working days to process, whereas a VOA is usually processed within 24-48 hours. Moreover, with a VOA, you don’t need to visit a Vietnamese embassy or consulate since the entire process is completed online, offering more convenience for travelers.
Update: As of 2023, the Visa on Arrival option is now available only for travelers joining organized tours arranged by local tour operators in Vietnam.
| 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 from 150+ countries | Citizens from 200 countries |
| Visa Validity | 1 or 3 months multiple entry; 6 months and 1 year multiple entry (US passports only) | Up to 30 days, single or multiple entry, for tourists
Up to 90 days, single or multiple entry, for business travelers |
| Good For | Tourism, business, family or relative visits | Tourism, business, family visits (short-term, 30 days) |
| Fees | Depending on the type of visa, a refund may be provided if the visa application is refused. The visa on arrival fee includes:
Service Fee: Paid online to receive the visa approval letter. Stamping Fee: Paid upon arrival to get the visa stamped. |
Depending on how you obtain your electronic visa for Vietnam, the costs are as follows:
Apply for e-Visa with support from VietnamTouristServices.com/ via this link:
|
| Processing Time | 7 working days for standard processing; 2 hours for emergency processing; available on weekends | 5-7 working days (expedited service available) |
| Ports of Entry | International airports in Vietnam (5): Hanoi, Hai Phong, Da Nang, Nha Trang, Ho Chi Minh City | 33 entry ports including air, sea, and overland |
| How to Apply | Apply online for an approval letter, receive it by email, and get the visa on arrival at the 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 services are private agencies; beware of fake government websites) | National e-visa portal (https://evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn/trang-chu-ttdt) |
| Support | Prompt support via phone, email, or WhatsApp anytime | Phone support not available |
Note: Some customers have reported receiving their e-visa document after the 5th working day.
2. Which One Is Better for You
- Emergency Situations: If you need a visa quickly, the Visa on Arrival is ideal as it can provide an approval letter within just 2 working hours, even on weekends.
- Longer Term or Business Visas: For longer-term stays (3 or 6 months) or business purposes, the Visa on Arrival is a better choice.
- Avoiding Airport Delays or Land Entry: If you prefer not to wait at the airport or are entering Vietnam by land, the eVisa is the most convenient option for obtaining your visa.
The eVisa is the most convenient option for obtaining your visa.
Above is a brief comparison between Vietnam Visa on Arrival vs Vietnam eVisa, designed to help you choose the best option for your needs.
If you need more information about Vietnam Visa on Arrival vs Vietnam eVisa, don’t hesitate to contact us.
Wolo Tours JSC
- Address: 2nd floor – No 02, Alley 232, Yen Hoa St., Cau Giay District, Hanoi, Vietnam.
- Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 22:00 Vietnam time (GMT +7) (closed on Vietnamese holidays)
- Website: https://vietnamtouristservices.com
- Hotline: (+84) 918 212 468
- Email: [email protected]
