Are you planning to visit Vietnam and worried about your visa expiring? Don’t worry, Vietnam offers a convenient option for extending or renewing your visa. This article will provide you with all the necessary information about Vietnam visa extension and renewal for US citizens.
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Vietnam Visa Extension and Renewal for US Citizens
Vietnam visa extension is issued for people who are already in Vietnam and their visa is about to expire. It allows them to stay longer in the country without having to leave and re-enter. On the other hand, visa renewal is for those who want to change their current visa type or extend their stay beyond the maximum validity of their current visa. Both options are available for US citizens in Vietnam.
How to Apply for Visa Extension?
The process of extending your Vietnam visa is quite straightforward. You can either do it yourself or through a visa agency. Here are the steps you need to follow:
- Prepare the required documents:
- Your valid original passport
- Residence certificate issued by the local public security
- A 4×6 cm photo with a white background
- The NA5 form on page 11, sealed by your agency or company in Vietnam.
- Submit your documents to the Departure of Immigration office. You can also send them via post or use an agent to submit on your behalf.
- Pay the visa extension fee. The cost may vary depending on the length of your extended stay and the type of visa you have.
- Wait for the approval. It usually takes 5-7 working days for the immigration office to process your request.
Once your visa extension is approved, you will receive a new visa stamp on your passport with the extended validity period.
Vietnam Visa Extension for US Citizens
As a US citizen, you can extend your Vietnam visa for up to 3 months. The maximum validity of your extended visa will depend on the type of visa you currently hold. For example, if you have a 1-month single-entry visa, you can extend it for another month. If you have a 3-month multiple-entry visa, you can extend it for another 3 months.
Work Permit Extension for US Passport Holders
If you are working in Vietnam and need to extend your work permit along with your visa, here are the additional documents you need to prepare:
- A valid work permit
- An updated labor contract
- A letter from your employer requesting the extension of your work permit and visa
The process for extending your work permit and visa is the same as mentioned above. However, you will also need to pay an additional fee for the work permit extension.
Vietnam Visa Renewal for US Citizens
If you want to change your current visa type or extend your stay beyond the maximum validity of your current visa, you will need to apply for a visa renewal. The process is similar to visa extension, but there are some additional requirements:
- A valid passport with at least 6 months of remaining validity
- Proof of financial stability (bank statement or sponsorship letter)
- A detailed itinerary of your stay in Vietnam
- A letter explaining the reason for your visa renewal request
The immigration office may also require an interview before approving your visa renewal. The processing time for visa renewal is longer compared to visa extension, so make sure to plan ahead.
How Much to Pay for Vietnam Visa Extension for US Citizens?
The cost for extending or renewing your Vietnam visa may vary depending on the length of your extended stay and the type of visa you have. Here is a table showing the fees for different types of visas:
| Type of Visa | Maximum Validity | Extension Fee | Renewal Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-month single entry | 1 month | $10 | $135 |
| 3-month single entry | 3 months | $25 | $135 |
| 1-month multiple entry | 1 month | $15 | $145 |
| 3-month multiple entry | 3 months | $30 | $155 |
It is important to note that the fees mentioned above are subject to change. It is best to check with the immigration office or a visa agency for the latest fees.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Vietnam offers a convenient option for extending or renewing your visa if you are a US citizen. Whether you want to stay longer in the country or change your current visa type, the process is simple and straightforward. Just make sure to prepare all the required documents and pay the necessary fees. With this article, we hope you have a better understanding of Vietnam visa extension and renewal for US citizens. Happy travels!