Vietnam, a captivating Southeast Asian country, beckons travelers with its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes. Whether it’s exploring the bustling streets of Hanoi, cruising the tranquil waters of Halong Bay, or trekking through the picturesque rice terraces of Sapa, Vietnam offers an unforgettable travel experience. For Bangladeshi citizens planning a trip to Vietnam, obtaining a visa is a crucial step in ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey. This comprehensive guide will provide all the essential information regarding Vietnam visa for Bangladesh requirements, exemptions, types of visas available, the application process, and visa extension procedures for Bangladeshi passport holders.
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Vietnam Visa Requirements for Bangladeshi Citizens
Bangladeshi passport holders require a visa to enter Vietnam for tourism, business, or other purposes. The visa requirements for Bangladeshi citizens are relatively straightforward and can be fulfilled with the necessary documentation. The following documents are generally required for a Vietnam visa application:
Passport
A valid passport with a minimum validity of six months beyond the intended date of departure from Vietnam is a must-have for Bangladeshi citizens applying for a Vietnam visa. It is important to ensure that your passport has at least two blank pages for visa stamps and is in good condition. Damaged or expired passports will not be accepted by the Vietnamese authorities.
Visa Application Form
A duly filled and signed Vietnam visa application form is another essential requirement for Bangladeshi citizens. The form can be obtained online or from the Vietnamese Embassy/Consulate in Bangladesh. It is important to fill out the form accurately and completely to avoid any delays or rejections in the visa application process.
Passport-sized Photos
Two recent passport-sized photos (4×6 cm) with a white background are required for a Vietnam visa application. The photos should be taken within the last six months and must show a clear image of your face without any headwear or glasses.
Visa Fee
Bangladeshi citizens are required to pay a visa fee for their Vietnam visa application. The fee may vary depending on the type of visa and the duration of stay. It is advisable to check the current visa fees with the Vietnamese Embassy/Consulate in Bangladesh before submitting your application.
Vietnam Visa Exemptions for Bangladeshi Passport Holders
While Bangladeshi citizens generally require a visa to enter Vietnam, there are some exemptions that they can avail based on their purpose of travel and duration of stay. The following are the categories of Bangladeshi citizens who are exempt from obtaining a visa for entering Vietnam:
- Diplomatic and Official Passport Holders: Bangladeshi citizens holding diplomatic or official passports are exempt from obtaining a visa for entering Vietnam for a period of up to 90 days.
- APEC Business Travel Card Holders: Bangladeshi citizens holding an APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) with “VNM” code on the back are allowed to enter Vietnam for a maximum of 60 days without a visa.
- Visa Exemption Agreement: Bangladeshi citizens who hold a valid passport and are eligible under the visa exemption agreement between Vietnam and Bangladesh can enter Vietnam for a maximum of 30 days without a visa. This exemption is applicable for holders of ordinary passports only.
- Transit Passengers: Bangladeshi citizens transiting through Vietnam to a third country by air are exempt from obtaining a visa if they do not leave the transit area of the airport.
Types of Vietnam Visas Available to Bangladeshi Nationals
For Bangladeshi citizens who do not fall under the visa exemption categories, there are various types of visas available to enter Vietnam. The type of visa required will depend on the purpose of travel and duration of stay. The following are the types of visas available to Bangladeshi nationals:
Vietnam Tourist Visa
A Vietnam tourist visa is issued to Bangladeshi citizens who wish to enter Vietnam for tourism purposes. This type of visa allows a maximum stay of 30 days and can be extended once for an additional 30 days. It can be obtained in two ways:
- Visa on Arrival: Bangladeshi citizens can apply for a visa on arrival by obtaining an approval letter from the Vietnamese Immigration Department. This letter can be obtained through a travel agency or online visa service provider. Upon arrival at one of the designated airports in Vietnam, the Bangladeshi citizen must present the approval letter, passport, and visa fee to obtain the visa.
- Visa from Vietnamese Embassy/Consulate: Bangladeshi citizens can also apply for a tourist visa directly from the Vietnamese Embassy/Consulate in Bangladesh. The application process, requirements, and fees may vary depending on the embassy/consulate.
Vietnam Business Visa
A Vietnam business visa is issued to Bangladeshi citizens who wish to enter Vietnam for business-related activities such as attending conferences, meetings, or conducting business negotiations. This type of visa allows a maximum stay of 90 days and can be extended for a longer duration if required. The application process and requirements are similar to that of a tourist visa.
Vietnam Work Permit
Bangladeshi citizens who wish to work in Vietnam must obtain a work permit before entering the country. The work permit is issued by the Vietnamese Department of Labor, Invalids, and Social Affairs and is valid for up to two years. To obtain a work permit, the Bangladeshi citizen must have a job offer from a Vietnamese company and meet certain qualifications and requirements set by the Vietnamese government.
Vietnam Visa Application Process for Bangladeshi Citizens
The Vietnam visa application process for Bangladeshi citizens can be completed in two ways – through the Vietnamese Embassy/Consulate or by obtaining a visa on arrival. The steps for both methods are outlined below:
Applying for a Visa at the Vietnamese Embassy/Consulate
- Obtain the visa application form from the Vietnamese Embassy/Consulate in Bangladesh or download it from their website.
- Fill out the form accurately and completely with all the required information.
- Gather all the necessary documents, including passport, photos, and visa fee.
- Submit the application form and supporting documents to the Vietnamese Embassy/Consulate in person or through a representative.
- Pay the visa fee and collect the receipt.
- Wait for the visa processing time, which may vary depending on the embassy/consulate.
- Once the visa is approved, collect your passport with the visa stamp from the embassy/consulate.
Obtaining a Visa on Arrival
- Apply for an approval letter through a travel agency or online visa service provider.
- Fill out the entry and exit form (available on the airline’s website) and attach a passport-sized photo.
- Print the approval letter and bring it along with the entry and exit form and passport-sized photo to present upon arrival at one of the designated airports in Vietnam.
- Pay the visa stamping fee and obtain the visa stamp on your passport.
- Proceed to the immigration counter to get your passport stamped and enter Vietnam.
Procedure for Extending a Vietnam Visa for Bangladeshi Citizens
Bangladeshi citizens who wish to extend their stay in Vietnam beyond the validity of their visa must apply for a visa extension. The following are the steps to extend a Vietnam visa:
- Contact the Vietnamese Immigration Department in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City to obtain the application form for a visa extension.
- Fill out the form accurately and completely with all the required information.
- Submit the application form along with your passport, visa stamping fee, and other supporting documents to the Immigration Department.
- Pay the visa extension fee and collect the receipt.
- Wait for the visa processing time, which may vary depending on the type of visa and duration of extension.
- Once the visa is approved, collect your passport with the extended visa from the Immigration Department.
Conclusion
In conclusion, obtaining a Vietnam visa for Bangladeshi citizens is a relatively straightforward process that can be completed through the Vietnamese Embassy/Consulate or by obtaining a visa on arrival. It is important to ensure that all the necessary documents are in hand and the application form is filled out accurately to avoid any delays or rejections. With this comprehensive guide, Bangladeshi citizens can now plan their trip to Vietnam with ease and enjoy all that this beautiful country has to offer.