If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, one of the first things you need to think about is the visa. Many travelers wonder, “How long does it take to get a Vietnamese visa?” The answer depends on a few things: your nationality, the type of visa you need, how you apply, and sometimes even the time of year.
This guide explains everything you need to know in plain, easy-to-follow language. Whether you are traveling for tourism, business, work, or visiting family, this article will help you understand how long you might have to wait.
Different Ways to Apply for a Vietnamese Visa
There are three main ways to apply for a Vietnamese visa. Each option has different processing times.
a) Apply at the Embassy or Consulate
You can apply for a visa by going to a Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your country. This is a common way to apply if you’re staying in Vietnam for a long time or need a specific visa type.
Processing time:
Usually takes about 5 to 7 working days. However, it can take longer during busy seasons or holidays.
What affects the time?
How quickly you submit all your documents
Whether there are any national holidays in your country or in Vietnam
How busy the embassy or consulate is
Sometimes, express services are available, but you usually have to pay extra.
b) E-visa (Electronic Visa)
Vietnam now offers an e-visa for citizens of over 80 countries. You can apply online and receive your visa through email.
Processing time:
Normally, an e-visa takes about 3 working days to process. But during holidays or high travel seasons, it may take up to 5 working days.
How does it work?
Fill out an online application
Upload a passport photo and passport page
Pay the visa fee online
Wait for an email confirmation with your visa
This is one of the fastest and easiest ways to get a Vietnamese visa if your country is eligible.
c) Visa on Arrival (VOA)
This option is for people flying into Vietnam. You apply online first to get an approval letter, then receive the actual visa at the airport in Vietnam.
Processing time for the approval letter:
Normal service: 2 to 4 working days
Urgent service: 1 working day
Super urgent: Sometimes within a few hours (extra fees apply)
Processing time at the airport:
Once you land, the process to get your visa stamped usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, but it can be longer if the airport is busy.
Type of Visa Matters
The kind of visa you need also affects how long it takes to get it.
a) Tourist Visa
A tourist visa is the most common and usually the easiest to get.
E-visa:
Takes about 3 working days
Embassy visa:
Takes around 5 to 7 working days
Visa on Arrival:
Letter: 2 to 4 working days
Stamping: 15 to 30 minutes at the airport
b) Business Visa
Business visas may take a bit longer, especially if you need to submit extra documents like an invitation letter from a Vietnamese company.
Processing time:
Around 5 to 10 working days, depending on how you apply and the company you’re working with
c) Work Visa
A work visa usually takes more time. You’ll need documents from your employer in Vietnam, and sometimes approval from Vietnamese authorities.
Processing time:
Usually takes 10 to 15 working days, but it can take longer if documents are missing or delayed
Factors That Can Delay Your Visa
Even though there are standard processing times, delays do happen. Here are some common reasons why your visa might take longer:
a) Incomplete Application
If your application is missing information or documents, the processing time will be delayed. Always double-check before submitting.
b) Public Holidays
Vietnam has several public holidays, and embassies or immigration offices close during these times. This can delay your visa even if you apply online.
c) High Travel Seasons
During peak tourist seasons (like summer or Tet, the Vietnamese New Year), visa applications go up. That means longer wait times.
d) Technical Issues
Sometimes, online systems have problems, especially during updates or high traffic. This can slow down e-visa processing or VOA approval letters.
e) Security Checks
In some cases, visas may be delayed due to background checks or extra reviews for certain travelers or nationalities.
Tips to Get Your Visa Faster
Want to make sure you get your Vietnamese visa quickly? Here are some tips:
Apply early. Don’t wait until the last minute. Apply at least two weeks before your trip, even if you choose the e-visa.
Use express services. If you’re in a hurry, many embassies and online services offer faster processing for an extra fee.
Have all documents ready. Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months, and prepare your photos and forms correctly.
Avoid holidays. Try not to apply during national holidays in Vietnam or in your own country.
Double-check your info. A small mistake, like a typo in your name or passport number, can slow things down or even cause rejection.
What If You Need to Extend Your Stay?
Sometimes people want to stay longer in Vietnam than their visa allows. You can apply for a visa extension or visa renewal while you’re in the country.
Visa extension:
Lets you stay longer without leaving Vietnam. You must apply before your visa expires. The process can take 5 to 10 working days.
Visa renewal:
This gives you a new visa. It usually takes 7 to 10 working days, and you might need to leave the country and come back.
You’ll need help from a local travel agent or immigration expert to do this, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the process.
Summary: How Long It Really Takes
Here’s a quick overview of the average times:
E-visa: 3 to 5 working days
Visa at embassy: 5 to 7 working days
Visa on arrival approval letter: 1 to 4 working days
Stamping at airport: 15 to 30 minutes
Work visa: 10 to 15 working days
Business visa: 5 to 10 working days
Visa extension or renewal: 5 to 10 working days
Always apply early to avoid problems. Plan ahead, especially if your trip is during a busy season.
Conclusion
Getting a Vietnamese visa is usually quick and easy if you prepare well. E-visas are fast and convenient. Visa on arrival works well for air travelers. And if you’re staying longer or working in Vietnam, just allow more time for processing.
Now that you know how long it takes to get a Vietnamese visa, you can plan your trip with more confidence. Don’t forget to double-check your passport, collect your documents early, and apply in advance. Safe travels!
Related topics:
- How Much Does a 30-Day Visa for Vietnam Cost?
- Do Vietnamese Citizens Need a Visa to Visit Thailand?
- How Much Does a Vietnam E-Visa Really Cost?
