Vietnam Visa On Arrival
Vietnam visa on arrival (VOA) was once a popular option for air travelers to Vietnam, allowing them to obtain a visa stamp upon landing after getting a pre-approval letter. However, as of December 2025, the landscape has changed significantly with the expansion of the Vietnam e-visa system.
The Vietnam e-visa—fully online, up to 90 days validity, available to all nationalities, and accepted at 83 ports (including airports, land borders, and seaports)—has become the primary and recommended method for most visitors. Visa on arrival is now limited and mainly used for urgent or emergency cases.
Is Vietnam Visa on Arrival Still Available in 2026?
Yes, but with restrictions:
- Primarily for emergency/urgent travel or special cases (e.g., last-minute business, tour groups organized by licensed operators).
- Requires a pre-approval letter from the Vietnam Immigration Department, arranged through authorized agencies.
- Only for air arrivals at major international airports.
- Not a standard option for regular tourists—most are directed to the e-visa.
Many agencies still offer “emergency VOA” with approvals in 1-4 hours (even weekends/holidays), but for planned trips, the e-visa is faster, cheaper, and hassle-free.
Eligible Airports for Visa on Arrival (2026)
VOA is processed at these international airports:
- Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi)
- Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Ho Chi Minh City)
- Da Nang International Airport (Da Nang)
- Cam Ranh International Airport (Nha Trang)
- Cat Bi International Airport (Hai Phong)
- Others may be added, but confirm with your agency.
Important: No VOA at land borders or seaports—use e-visa for those.
How Vietnam Visa on Arrival Works (If Eligible)
1. Apply for Pre-Approval Letter: Through a licensed agency (not official portal). Provide passport details, arrival date, and flight info.
2. Receive Approval Letter: Via email (standard 2-5 days; urgent 1-4 hours possible).
3. Board Your Flight: Show the letter to airline check-in.
4. At the Airport:
- Go to “Visa on Arrival” or “Landing Visa” counter.
- Submit approval letter, passport, 2 passport photos (4x6cm), completed entry/exit form (NA1).
- Pay stamping fee in cash (USD preferred): $25 single-entry / $50 multiple-entry.
- Wait for visa stamp (15-60 minutes, longer during peaks).
5. Proceed to immigration.
Costs for Vietnam Visa on Arrival
- Service Fee (to agency for approval letter): Varies ($15–$120+ depending on urgency/group size).
- Stamping Fee (paid at airport): Fixed government fee—$25 (single) / $50 (multiple).
- Total often higher than e-visa due to agency charges.
Pros & Cons of Visa on Arrival vs. E-Visa
| Aspect | Visa on Arrival (VOA) | Vietnam E-Visa (Recommended) |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | Limited (urgent/special cases only) | All nationalities, standard option |
| Application | Through agencies (pre-approval letter) | Fully online (official portal) |
| Processing Time | 1-5 days (urgent hours) | 3-5 working days (no official urgent) |
| Entry Ports | Airports only | 83 ports (air, land, sea) |
| Fees | Service + stamping (~$50–$100+) | Fixed $25/$50 (government only) |
| Convenience | Queues & cash payment at airport | No queues—print & go |
| Risk | Potential delays/rejections | Lower risk, direct approval |
In 2025, 90% of travelers choose e-visa for simplicity.
Why Choose E-Visa Instead?
- No airport waiting or cash payments.
- Multiple entries, 90-day validity.
- Apply anytime from anywhere.
For urgent needs, our premium Vietnam evisa services provide expert checks, support, and alternatives if VOA is required.
Plan ahead—apply for your Vietnam visa today to avoid last-minute stress!