Vietnam is a beautiful country known for its stunning beaches, vibrant cities, rich history, and delicious cuisine. If you’re an Indian citizen planning to visit Vietnam, you’ll need to understand the visa requirements. This blog will guide you through the process of obtaining a Vietnam visa for Indians, the types of visas available, the necessary documents, and more. We’ll break everything down into simple steps to make it easy for you.
Also Read: How Long Does It Take To Get A Green Card? |
How Many Types of Vietnam Visas?
There are several types of visas available for Indians traveling to Vietnam. The main types are:
- Tourist Visa
- Business Visa
- Visa on Arrival
- E-visa
Let’s explore each type in detail.
Tourist Visa
A tourist visa is for those who want to visit Vietnam for leisure, sightseeing, or visiting friends and family. Here’s what you need to know about the tourist visa:
Documents Required
- Valid Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your entry date into Vietnam.
- Visa Application Form: Download the form from the Vietnamese embassy’s website or complete it online.
- Passport-Sized Photograph: A recent photograph with a white background (size 4×6 cm).
- Return Flight Ticket: Proof of a confirmed return flight ticket.
- Hotel Accommodation: Proof of hotel bookings or accommodation arrangements.
- Bank Statement: A document from your bank showing your financial status over the past three months.
Processing Time
The processing time for a tourist visa from Delhi, India, is typically 10 to 12 working days. From other locations, it might take a day or two longer.
Example
Suppose you plan to visit Vietnam for a vacation in July. You should apply for your visa in early June to ensure you receive it on time.
Business Visa
A business visa is for people who plan to go to Vietnam for work reasons like meetings, conferences, or exploring business chances.
Documents Required
- Valid Passport: Your passport needs to be valid for at least six months when you enter Vietnam.
- Visa Application Form: Fill out the form online or download it from the embassy’s website.
- Passport-Sized Photograph: A recent photograph with a white background (size 4×6 cm).
- Return Flight Ticket: Proof of a confirmed return flight ticket.
- Hotel Accommodation: Proof of hotel bookings or accommodation arrangements.
- Bank Statement: You need to show your bank account details for the past three months.
- Approval Letter: An approval letter from the Vietnam Immigration Office or your business partner in Vietnam.
Processing Time
The processing time for a business visa is similar to that of a tourist visa, usually 10 to 12 working days.
Visa on Arrival
Visa on Arrival (VOA) is an option where you can apply for your visa online and collect it upon arrival at one of Vietnam’s international airports. This is a convenient option for many travelers.
How to Apply for Visa on Arrival
- Apply Online: Fill out the online application form on a trusted visa service website.
- Pay the Fee: Pay the service fee online.
- Receive Approval Letter: You will receive an approval letter via email within 2 business days.
- Get Your Visa: Present the approval letter, passport, passport-size photo, and the stamping fee at the VOA counter at the airport in Vietnam.
Documents Required
- Approval Letter: This letter is sent to you via email after applying online.
- Passport: Your passport needs to remain valid for at least six months starting from when you enter the country.
- Passport-Sized Photograph: A recent photograph with a white background (size 4×6 cm).
- Stamping Fee: Payable in cash at the airport.
E-visa
The E-visa is an electronic visa that allows you to enter Vietnam for tourism, business, or transit purposes. It is valid for up to 30 days with a single entry.
How to Apply for E-visa
- Visit the Official Website: Go to the Vietnam Immigration Department’s official website.
- Fill Out the Application: Complete the online application form with your details.
- Upload Photo and Passport Scan: Upload a recent small photo of your face and a scanned copy of your passport.
- Pay the Fee: Pay the visa fee online using a credit or debit card.
- Receive E-visa: You will receive your e-visa via email within 3 business days. Print it out and carry it with you.
Documents Required
- Passport: Your passport needs to remain valid for at least six months starting from the day you enter the country.
- Passport-Sized Photograph: A recent photograph with a white background (size 4×6 cm).
- Scanned Copy of Passport: The biographical page of your passport.
Visa Exemption
Your passport needs to remain valid for at least six months starting from the day you enter the country.
Countries with Visa Exemption
Here’s a table of some countries with visa exemption:
Country | Duration of Stay |
Japan | 45 days |
Russia | 45 days |
South Korea | 45 days |
Denmark | 45 days |
Norway | 45 days |
Finland | 45 days |
Sweden | 45 days |
Belarus | 45 days |
United Kingdom | 45 days |
France | 45 days |
Germany | 45 days |
Italy | 45 days |
Spain | 45 days |
How to Track Your Visa Application For Vietnam Visa for Indians?
Once you have submitted your visa application, you can track its progress online. Here’s how you can do it:
- Receive Confirmation: After submitting your application, you will receive a confirmation email and SMS with a reference number.
- Visit the Website: Go to the Vietnam Visa Application
Centre’s website. - Enter Reference Number: Use the reference number to track your application status.
Vietnam Visa Extension and Renewal
If you wish to stay longer in Vietnam than your visa allows, you can apply for a visa extension or renewal.
Visa Extension
A visa extension allows you to extend your stay in Vietnam without leaving the country. The extension duration must be at least as long as your current visa.
Example
If you have a one-month visa, you can extend it for another month. For a three-month visa, you can extend it for another three months.
Visa Renewal
Visa renewal involves getting a new visa stamp and sticker on your passport. This option is suitable if your current visa does not meet the extension requirements or if you wish to change the visa type (e.g., from single entry to multiple entry).
Example
If you enter Vietnam on a visa exemption and want to stay longer, you can apply for a visa renewal to get a new visa for up to three months.
Tips for a Smooth Visa Application Process
Here are some tips to ensure a smooth visa application process:
- Apply Early: Start your visa application process well in advance to avoid any last-minute issues.
- Double-Check Documents: Make sure all your documents are complete and accurate before submitting your application.
- Follow Instructions: Carefully follow the instructions provided on the visa application form and the official websites.
- Keep Copies: Keep copies of all documents and receipts for your records.
- Be Prepared: If you’re applying for a VOA, have all necessary documents and fees ready upon arrival at the airport.
Conclusion
Obtaining a Vietnam visa for Indians is a straightforward process if you follow the steps and guidelines provided. Whether you’re visiting for tourism, business, or other purposes, knowing the requirements and preparing in advance will make your trip to Vietnam hassle-free.
Enjoy the beautiful landscapes, rich culture, and delicious food that Vietnam has to offer! Safe travels!
By understanding these steps and tips, you can easily navigate the visa application process and focus on enjoying your trip to this fascinating Southeast Asian country.