Vietnam Embassy Sticker Visa in Zimbabwe

The Vietnam Embassy Sticker Visa in Zimbabwe is a traditional and reliable option for Zimbabwean citizens, residents, and others in Zimbabwe who prefer a physical visa sticker affixed directly into their passport. This embassy-issued visa allows entry to Vietnam by air, land, or sea and is particularly useful for specific visa categories (such as business visas requiring sponsorship), longer durations.

Zimbabwean passport holders require a visa to enter Vietnam for tourism, business, or other purposes—no general visa exemption applies. Convenient modern alternatives include the e-visa (up to 90 days, single or multiple entries) and visa on arrival (for air travel only). However, the sticker visa offers a dependable, embassy-stamped solution through the nearest Vietnamese diplomatic mission for those preferring the classic in-person route.

1. Vietnam Embassy and Consulates in Zimbabwe

There is currently no Embassy or Consulate of Vietnam in Zimbabwe. Zimbabwean applicants for a Vietnam embassy sticker visa must apply through the nearest accredited Vietnamese embassy or consulate. The most practical and commonly accredited option is:

Embassy of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam in South Africa

• Address: 377 Marais Street, Brooklyn, Pretoria 0181, South Africa (P.O. Box 13692, Hatfield 0028)
• Phone: +27 12 362 8119 / +27 12 362 8118
• Fax: +27 12 362 8115
• Email: embassy@vietnam.co.za or vnemb.za@mofa.gov.vn
• Website: vnembassy-pretoria.mofa.gov.vn
• Distance from Harare: Approximately 1,100 km

2. Can Zimbabwe Apply for a Traditional Sticker Visa?

Yes, Zimbabwean citizens and residents in Zimbabwe can apply for a traditional sticker visa (physical visa affixed in the passport) at the nearest Vietnamese embassy (typically Pretoria, South Africa). Zimbabwean 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 preferring pre-stamped certainty over e-visa or visa on arrival.

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

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

1. Contact the Embassy: Email embassy@vietnam.co.za or vnemb.za@mofa.gov.vn or call +27 12 362 8119 / +27 12 362 8118 to confirm they process Zimbabwean applications, verify current requirements, and inquire about appointments or mail-in options.
2. Prepare Documents: Gather all necessary items (detailed in section 4).
3. Submit Application: Travel to the embassy in Pretoria 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 Zimbabwe

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

• Valid Passport: Original Zimbabwean 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 Zimbabwe

• 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 in ZWL/USD), plus stamping/service fees. Additional expenses include travel to Pretoria, photos, accommodation, or rush handling.

6. Other Consular Services

The Embassy of Vietnam in Pretoria 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).
• South African holidays (e.g., Freedom Day April 27, Youth Day June 16, National Women’s Day August 9, Heritage Day September 24).