Vietnam has become a popular travel destination for Indian travelers, from exploring bustling Hanoi to relaxing on the beaches of Da Nang. However, understanding the Vietnam Visa Indian passport holders is essential for a smooth entry. Indian citizens traveling to Vietnam must obtain a visa in advance. Thankfully, Vietnam provides multiple options for visa applications, allowing flexibility and choice for every traveler’s need.
Vietnam Visa Indian passport
If you are holding an Indian passport and planning a trip to Vietnam, you have three main visa options: the Vietnam e-visa, the Visa on Arrival (VOA), and the embassy visa. Each of these visa types varies in terms of application process, fees, and processing time, so it’s helpful to choose the one that best fits your travel plans and meets Vietnam Visa Indian passport requirements.
Vietnam E-Visa for Indian passport holders
The Vietnam e-visa is one of the most convenient options for Indian passport holders. This single-entry visa allows Indian travelers to stay in Vietnam for up to 30 days and is suitable for both tourism and business visits.
- Application process: Indian travelers can apply for the Vietnam Visa Indian passport entirely online through Vietnam’s official immigration website. You will need a scanned copy of your passport and a passport-sized photo.
- Processing time: The Vietnam Visa Indian passport application for an e-visa usually takes about 3–5 working days to process.
- Cost: The Vietnam e-visa fee is around $25, which is non-refundable.
Vietnam Visa on Arrival (VOA) for Indian citizens
Another popular visa option for Indian passport holders traveling to Vietnam is the Visa on Arrival (VOA). This type of visa is available for those who arrive at certain Vietnamese international airports and allows for longer stays and multiple entries. However, it requires a prior application for an “Approval Letter” to meet the Vietnam Visa Indian passport criteria.
- Application process: Indian travelers need to apply online for an Approval Letter, which is provided by an authorized Vietnamese travel agency. With this letter, travelers can then obtain their VOA at the airport by presenting it along with a completed visa application form and passport-sized photos.
- Fees: The VOA costs include a service fee (for the approval letter) and a stamping fee, which ranges from $25–$50 depending on the visa type.
- Validity Options: VOA visas are available as 1-month or 3-month single-entry or multiple-entry visas, providing flexibility for Vietnam Visa Indian passport needs.
Embassy Visa for Indian passport holders
For those who prefer obtaining a visa in advance, applying directly at the Vietnamese Embassy in India is an option. The embassy visa provides the most flexibility in terms of entry types and stay duration, which is ideal for business travelers or those planning to stay in Vietnam for extended periods under the Vietnam Visa Indian passport scheme.
- Application process: Indian citizens must submit a completed visa application form, passport, photos, and required documents at the Vietnamese Embassy in India. Processing time for this visa type is typically around 5–7 business days.
- Cost: Fees vary depending on the duration and type of visa requested.
Step-by-step guide to applying for a Vietnam Visa as an Indian citizen
To successfully obtain a Vietnam Visa Indian passport, follow these steps:
- Choose the appropriate Visa type
Decide between an e-visa, VOA, or embassy visa based on your travel needs, intended length of stay, and frequency of entry under the Vietnam Visa for Indian Passport program.
- Collect required documents
Gather essential documents including a passport valid for at least six months from the intended date of entry, recent passport-sized photos, and any additional paperwork required by the Vietnam Visa Indian Passport process.
- Submit the Application
- E-Visa: Apply directly through the Vietnam Immigration website under Vietnam Visa Indian Passport requirements.
- Visa on Arrival: Obtain an approval letter from a Vietnamese agency, which allows visa issuance at the airport.
- Embassy Visa: Apply directly to the Vietnamese Embassy in India.
- Receive Your Visa Approval: E-visa and VOA approval letters are generally sent electronically, while embassy visas are issued directly at the consulate.
Vietnam Visa cost and processing times for Indian citizens
For Indian passport holders, the visa fees and processing times vary depending on the chosen visa type. Here’s a breakdown under the Vietnam Visa Indian Passport guidelines:
- E-Visa: The fee is $25 for a 30-day single entry visa, and processing takes 3–5 working days.
- Visa on Arrival: Expect to pay a service fee (for the approval letter) and a stamping fee of $25–$50, with processing for the approval letter taking about 2–3 business days.
- Embassy Visa: Costs vary depending on visa duration and type, usually ranging from $50 to $100, with processing times between 5–7 business days.
Tips for a smooth Vietnam Visa application for Indian citizens
1. Apply Early: Preparing your Vietnam Visa for Indian Passport in advance
It’s recommended for Indian passport holders to start the visa application process at least 1–2 weeks before the planned departure date. Early application provides a buffer to address any issues that may arise during processing, such as additional documentation requests or delays in verification. This is especially important for travelers using the Vietnam e-visa option, where processing times can vary. If applying through an embassy, begin the process even earlier, as consulate appointments, document processing, and visa issuance can require additional time.
For those planning to obtain a Visa on Arrival (VOA), early preparation involves applying for an Approval Letter in advance. Once approved, this letter will allow you to receive your VOA at Vietnamese airports upon arrival. Although the VOA process may seem quicker, obtaining this approval letter ahead of time ensures a smooth experience upon landing.
2. Use official sources for your Vietnam Visa application
It’s essential to rely on official channels, such as the Vietnam Immigration Department’s official website or trusted, authorized visa agencies, to ensure transparency and to avoid any hidden or inflated fees. The Vietnam e-visa application, for example, can be completed directly through the Vietnam Immigration Department’s portal. This approach not only prevents possible fraud but also ensures that your personal data remains secure.
For Visa on Arrival applicants, verify that the travel agency providing your Approval Letter is reputable. Checking for reviews, service history, and their presence on official Vietnamese tourism or government websites can add confidence in their services. Embassy applicants should refer directly to the Vietnamese Embassy in India to get accurate details on requirements, fees, and appointment booking.
3. Check passport validity and other documentation requirements
Vietnam requires that Indian passports are valid for at least six months from the date of entry. This rule applies to all types of Vietnam visas, including the e-visa, Visa on Arrival, and embassy visas. Checking the expiration date early ensures that you’ll have time to renew the passport if needed.
Beyond passport validity, make sure to prepare any additional required documents:
- Passport-sized photos: Requirements may vary slightly between visa types. For instance, Visa on Arrival often requires two recent passport-sized photos.
- Application forms and Visa fee receipts: For e-visas and embassy visas, complete the official application forms accurately and retain a copy of any fee receipts.
- Visa approval letter (for VOA): As part of the VOA process, you must present the approval letter at your point of entry in Vietnam.
4. Prepare for entry and exit procedures at Vietnamese Airports
Indian travelers using a Visa on Arrival need to prepare for the procedures at Vietnamese airports, where the VOA is issued. Upon arrival, present your Approval Letter, along with passport-sized photos and your completed visa application form at the VOA counter. Having these documents readily accessible can help expedite the process.
E-visa holders, on the other hand, should print a copy of their e-visa approval document to present to immigration authorities upon entry. Embassy visa holders will already have the visa affixed to their passports and can proceed directly to the standard immigration process.
5. Understand the visa fees and prepare for payment
Visa fees for Indian passport holders vary depending on the visa type:
- E-visa: A flat fee of $25 is required when submitting the online application.
- Visa on Arrival: Fees include an initial service fee for the approval letter (paid online) and a stamping fee upon arrival, which ranges from $25 to $50 depending on the visa’s duration and entry type.
- Embassy Visa: Fees vary by the Vietnamese Embassy’s specific rates and the visa type requested.
Preparing for these fees in advance, especially the stamping fee for VOA, which is often paid in cash (USD or VND) at the airport, ensures there are no last-minute delays.
Extending your stay in Vietnam
For Indian travelers with a Vietnam Visa Indian passport wishing to extend their stay, the Vietnam Immigration Department offers options to help you stay beyond the original visa’s expiry date. Here’s a detailed guide to the extension process, available options, and important steps to ensure a smooth extension.
1. Understanding Visa extension vs Visa renewal
Before proceeding, it’s helpful to distinguish between visa extensions and visa renewals:
- Visa extension: This allows travelers to remain in Vietnam without leaving the country. It does not change the visa type but simply extends the original stay.
- Visa renewal: This process issues a new visa for a different validity period and may require the traveler to leave and re-enter the country. Visa renewal is often used by travelers whose visa types are non-extendable under current regulations.
2. Eligibility for visa extension on Vietnam Visa Indian passport
Indian passport holders who initially entered on a Vietnam Tourist Visa, Vietnam e-visa, or a Visa on Arrival can generally apply for an extension. The eligibility and duration of an extension depend on the original visa type, current regulations, and the applicant’s travel history in Vietnam. Tourist visas are typically extendable for up to 30 days, while longer extensions may apply for certain business visas.
The Vietnam Immigration Department may approve an extension on the following bases:
- Tourist Visa holders: Eligible for a one-time extension of up to 30 days.
- Business Visa holders: Extensions can range from 1–3 months.
- E-Visa holders: May receive a 30-day extension depending on approval from immigration authorities.
3. Steps to apply for a Visa extension in Vietnam
If you’re planning to extend your stay, follow these steps to navigate the visa extension process smoothly:
- Visit the Vietnam Immigration Department: It’s recommended to visit in person or work with a reliable, approved visa agency. The Department has offices in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang, each offering visa services.
- Gather Necessary Documents:
- Original Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months.
- Visa extension application form: This can be obtained at the immigration office.
- Original Vietnam Visa Indian passport: You’ll need a valid visa and entry stamp in your passport.
- Submit the application and pay the fee: After completing the application, submit it along with the required fees. Fees can vary widely based on visa type, extension duration, and location. Generally, visa extension fees range from $50 to $150.
- Await processing: Processing times vary; it can take 5 to 7 working days for regular processing, or longer if there are additional checks. Approved agencies may offer expedited services if required.
4. Considerations for using an approved travel agency
For Indian travelers who may find the visa extension process challenging, consulting a reliable travel agency or visa service provider can simplify the process. Authorized agencies work directly with immigration on behalf of the traveler, handling documentation, processing, and fees. If you’re in a time crunch or need a specific type of extension, agencies often provide more flexible options, but they charge service fees on top of government fees.
5. Alternative: Visa run options
If an extension or renewal is not feasible, Indian passport holders can opt for a visa run:
- Visa runs to neighboring countries: Cambodia, Laos, and Thailand are popular destinations. After leaving Vietnam, you can apply for a new visa to re-enter. Many travelers use this opportunity to explore nearby countries and then return on a fresh visa.
- E-Visa reapplication: Reapply for a new Vietnam e-visa online before returning, provided that your original visa has expired.
6. Special Considerations: COVID-19 and changing policies
Due to fluctuating travel regulations and policies, some extensions or renewals may be temporarily restricted. Indian citizens are advised to stay updated on current regulations by checking with the Vietnam Immigration Department or consulting a professional visa service.
7. Plan your stay wisely
Indian passport holders should begin their visa extension or renewal process well in advance of their original visa expiry date to avoid any last-minute issues. Consulting with immigration or trusted agencies early ensures you have the best options available and minimizes the risk of overstaying penalties.
8. Contact information for further assistance
For more detailed guidance or urgent inquiries, the Vietnam Immigration Department offers direct support. Consider contacting their offices or a reputable visa agency for any specific concerns about the Vietnam Visa Indian passport extension process.
Vietnamese Embassy in India: Contact information
For those applying for an embassy visa under Vietnam Visa Indian passport guidelines, here are the contact details:
- Address: Vietnamese Embassy, 20 Kautilya Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi, Delhi 110021
- Phone: +91-11-2687-9852
- Email: vnemb.in@mofa.gov.vn
- Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Monday – Friday
Trustvisa.vn is a reputable platform specializing in providing Vietnam visa services to travelers worldwide. It offers an easy and secure way to apply for various types of visas, including tourist, business, and e-visas, for visitors looking to enter Vietnam. The site emphasizes transparency, convenience, and speed, helping applicants navigate the application process with clear instructions and reliable customer support. Trustvisa.vn is especially popular among travelers seeking efficient, trustworthy visa services and is known for its customer-centric approach, ensuring each application is handled smoothly from start to finish.
Read more: Guide to Vietnam Visa application UK