Vietnam Embassy Sticker Visa in Kosovo

The Vietnam Embassy Sticker Visa in Kosovo is a traditional and secure option for Kosovar citizens, residents, and others in Kosovo who prefer a physical visa sticker affixed directly into their passport. This embassy-processed visa is suitable for entry to Vietnam by air, land, or sea and is particularly helpful for specific visa types (e.g., business visas requiring sponsorship), longer durations, or when you want pre-approval from an official diplomatic mission.

Vietnam offers convenient modern alternatives like the e-visa (up to 90 days, single or multiple entries) and visa on arrival (for air travel only), both accessible to Kosovo passport holders. However, the sticker visa provides a reliable, embassy-stamped solution through the nearest Vietnamese diplomatic mission for those preferring the classic in-person route.

1. Vietnam Embassy and Consulates in Kosovo

There is currently no Embassy or Consulate of Vietnam in Kosovo. Kosovar applicants for a Vietnam embassy sticker visa must apply through the nearest accredited Vietnamese embassy or consulate. Common nearby options include:

Embassy of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam in Albania (Tirana—often one of the closest geographically in the Balkans).

Embassy of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam in North Macedonia.

Other possibilities: Embassies in Serbia (Belgrade), Bulgaria (Sofia), or further afield like Italy (Rome) or Austria (Vienna).

2. Can Kosovo Apply for a Traditional Sticker Visa?

Yes, Kosovar citizens and residents in Kosovo can apply for a traditional sticker visa (physical visa affixed in the passport) at the nearest Vietnamese embassy (e.g., in Tirana, Skopje, or another accredited mission). Kosovo passport holders require a visa to enter Vietnam for tourism, business, or other purposes—no general visa exemption applies.

The sticker visa is fully available and ideal for:

• All entry modes (air, land, sea).
• Visa categories needing embassy approval or sponsorship (e.g., business visas).
• Travelers seeking pre-stamped certainty over e-visa or visa on arrival.

3. Step-by-Step Application Process for Vietnam Embassy Sticker Visa in Kosovo

With no local mission, the process involves traveling to or contacting the nearest embassy. Here’s the typical guide for a Vietnam embassy sticker visa:

1. Identify and Contact the Nearest Embassy: Research and reach out (email/phone) to the accredited Vietnamese embassy (e.g., Tirana or Skopje) to confirm they handle Kosovar applications, verify current requirements, and ask about appointments or mail-in options.
2. Prepare Documents: Gather all necessary items (detailed in section 4).
3. Submit Application: Travel to the embassy for in-person submission (recommended for sticker visas) or send by mail if permitted. Provide your passport, form, photos, supporting documents, and pay fees.
4. Processing: The embassy reviews your application, often coordinating with Vietnam’s Immigration Department (especially for business visas).
5. Collect Your Visa: Retrieve your passport with the sticker visa affixed (in person or via courier if arranged).
6. Travel: Enter Vietnam within the visa’s validity period.

4. Required Documents for Vietnam Embassy Sticker Visa Application in Kosovo

Standard documents for a Vietnam embassy sticker visa (via nearest mission) typically include:

• Valid Passport: Original Kosovo passport with at least 6 months validity beyond your planned departure from Vietnam and at least 2 blank pages.
• Photos: 2 recent passport-sized photos (4×6 cm, white background).
• Supporting Documents:
  • Travel itinerary (flight bookings, hotel reservations).
  • For tourism: Proof of purpose/funds if requested.
  • For business: Invitation/approval letter from a Vietnamese sponsor/company.

5. Processing Times, Fees, and Costs for Vietnam Embassy Sticker Visa in Kosovo

• Processing Time: Generally 3–7 working days for standard applications at the embassy, but can extend to 1–2 weeks depending on visa type, workload, and approval from Hanoi. Expedited services may be available for extra fees.
• Fees and Costs: Vary by visa type (single/multiple entry, duration) and embassy policy—often US$25–$100+ (or equivalent), plus stamping/service fees. Additional expenses include travel to the embassy (e.g., to Tirana or Skopje), photos, accommodation, or rush handling.

6. Other Consular Services

The nearest Vietnamese embassy (e.g., in Tirana or Skopje) offers services beyond visas, such as:

• Passport and consular support for Vietnamese nationals.
• Document notarization, authentication, and legalization.
• Emergency assistance for Vietnamese citizens (lost documents, welfare issues).
• Civil registration (births, marriages) where applicable.
• General consular protection and bilateral relations support.

7. Upcoming Office Closures

Embassies close for Vietnamese and host country public holidays. Expect closures around:

• Vietnamese Tet (Lunar New Year, late January/early February).
• Vietnam National Day (September 2).
• Host country holidays (e.g., Albanian or North Macedonian national/religious days).