If you are an Indian passport holder planning to visit Vietnam, getting a visa is a crucial step in the process. While there are several ways to obtain a visa for Vietnam, one of the most convenient options is the Visa on Arrival (VOA) service. In this article, we will provide a detailed guide on how to apply for a VOA as an Indian national and discuss the pros and cons, alternatives, tips, step-by-step procedures, compare with other types of visas, and FAQs related to the topic.
Table of Contents
What is Visa on Arrival?
Visa on Arrival is a program that allows travelers to apply for a visa upon arrival at the airport in Vietnam. The process involves applying online for a pre-approval letter that grants permission to board the flight to Vietnam and receive the actual visa at the airport upon arrival.
Who is eligible for Visa on Arrival?
Visa on Arrival is available to citizens of over 80 countries, including India. To be eligible for a VOA, you must have a valid passport, pay the visa fee, and have the pre-approval letter before boarding the flight to Vietnam.
How to Apply for a Visa on Arrival?
Applying for a Visa on Arrival involves three simple steps:
Step 1: Fill out the online application form
Visit the website of a reputable travel agency or immigration service provider that offers Visa on Arrival services and fill out the online application form. Provide accurate information about your personal details, travel itinerary, and purpose of the visit.
Step 2: Pay the processing fee
Pay the required processing fee via secure payment gateways such as PayPal, Credit Card, or Debit Card. The fee varies depending on the visa type, duration of stay, and the service provider.
Step 3: Receive the pre-approval letter
Once the payment is confirmed, you will receive a pre-approval letter via email within 2-3 business days. Print a copy of the letter and bring it with you to the airport.
Pros and Cons of Visa on Arrival
Like any other visa type, Visa on Arrival has its advantages and disadvantages. Here are some pros and cons to consider before opting for a VOA:
Pros
- Convenient and time-saving: Applying for a VOA is easy and can be done online from anywhere in the world. You don’t have to visit the embassy or consulate in person.
- Cost-effective: The fee for a VOA is generally cheaper than other types of visas.
- Flexible: You can apply for a VOA at any time, even at the last minute if necessary.
Cons
- Uncertainty: There is always a risk that your application may be rejected upon arrival, which can result in denied entry to Vietnam and return home.
- Potential scams: Some travel agencies offer fake VOA services or charge excessive fees, so it’s essential to choose a reputable service provider.
- Longer waiting times: The queue to get the actual visa at the airport can be long, especially during peak travel seasons, resulting in longer waiting times.
Alternatives to Visa on Arrival
If you’re not comfortable with the uncertainties of the VOA process, there are alternative ways to obtain a visa for Vietnam. These include:
- Embassy/Consulate Visa: Visit the nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate to apply for a visa in person.
- E-visa: Apply for an e-visa online through the Vietnamese government website.
- Visa exemption: If you hold diplomatic or official passports, you may be eligible for visa exemption for up to 90 days.
Step-by-Step Guide to Get a Visa on Arrival
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the VOA process smoothly:
- Fill out the online application form for a pre-approval letter.
- Pay the processing fee online via secure payment gateways.
- Wait for the pre-approval letter to arrive via email within 2-3 business days.
- Print a copy of the pre-approval letter and bring it with you to the airport.
- Upon arrival at the airport in Vietnam, submit the pre-approval letter, along with your passport, visa fee, and two passport-sized photos, to the Visa on Arrival counter.
- Wait for your name to be called out, receive the actual visa, and proceed to the immigration counter.
Comparing Visa on Arrival with Other Visa Types
Visa on Arrival is not the only way to obtain a visa for Vietnam. Here’s a comparison between VOA and other visa types:
Embassy/Consulate Visa
- Pros: Guaranteed visa approval, no queue at the airport, can apply for the visa directly at the embassy or consulate.
- Cons: Time-consuming, requires visiting the embassy or consulate in person, more expensive than VOA.
E-visa
- Pros: Apply online from anywhere in the world, faster processing time than embassy/consulate visa, no need to submit documents in person.
- Cons: Limited to specific nationalities, only valid for single entry and a maximum stay of 30 days, not available for all ports of entry.
Visa Exemption
- Pros: No need to apply for a visa beforehand, free of charge, can enter Vietnam multiple times within the exemption period.
- Cons: Only applicable to specific passport types, limited to a maximum stay of 90 days, not suitable for longer stays or business purposes.
Tips for Applying for a Visa on Arrival
Here are some tips to ensure a smooth VOA application process:
- Choose a reputable travel agency or immigration service provider to avoid scams.
- Apply for a pre-approval letter at least a week before your departure date to allow ample processing time.
- Double-check your personal details, travel itinerary, and purpose of visit before submitting the application form.
- Bring enough cash (US dollars) to pay the visa fee upon arrival.
- Have two passport-sized photos ready to submit along with the pre-approval letter.
The Best Option for Indian Citizens
In general, Visa on Arrival is the best option for Indian citizens traveling to Vietnam due to its convenience, affordability, and flexibility. However, if you prefer a guaranteed visa approval or have concerns about potential scams, you may consider applying for an embassy/consulate visa instead.
Conclusion
Obtaining a visa is an essential part of planning any international trip, and the Visa on Arrival program makes it easy for Indian citizens to obtain a visa for Vietnam. By following the step-by-step guide and considering the pros and cons, alternatives, tips, and comparisons we’ve discussed in this article, you can make an informed decision about which visa type is right for you.
FAQs
- Is Visa on Arrival available for all ports of entry in Vietnam?
No, Visa on Arrival is only available at selected airports and seaports in Vietnam. Ensure to check the list of eligible ports before applying for a VOA.
- What documents do I need to bring with me to apply for a VOA at the airport?
You need to bring a printed copy of the pre-approval letter, your passport (with at least six months’ validity), two passport-sized photos, and enough cash (US dollars) to pay the visa fee.
- Can I extend my stay in Vietnam if I enter with a Visa on Arrival?
Yes, you can extend your stay by applying for a visa extension at the immigration office in Vietnam.
- How long does it take to receive a pre-approval letter for a Visa on Arrival?
It typically takes 2-3 business days to receive a pre-approval letter via email.
- Is it possible to get a refund if my Visa on Arrival application is rejected?
No, the processing fee paid for a VOA is non-refundable, even if the application is rejected.