Exploring Vietnam Visa on Arrival vs E-Visa: A Comprehensive Guide for International Travelers

Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys, and official sources like vietnam-visa.com, evisa.gov.vn, travel.state.gov, vinpearl.com, and vietnam.travel. Information based on the latest data; verify before travel. Reflects Vietnam’s updated travel regulations.

Travelers, please note: The Visa on Arrival (VOA) program was discontinued in 2022. International travelers must use visa exemptions (if eligible), apply for an e-visa online via evisa.gov.vn, or obtain a visa through a Vietnamese embassy. This guide compares the discontinued VOA with the current e-visa system, details visa requirements, and provides travel tips for a seamless journey into Vietnam.

A Practical, Cultural, and Sustainable Travel Essential

Vietnam, a captivating Southeast Asian destination, is renowned for its cultural landmarks like Hoi An’s ancient town, Ha Long Bay’s limestone karsts, and bustling cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City vinpearl.com. Understanding the differences between the discontinued Visa on Arrival (VOA) and the current e-visa system ensures smooth entry for travelers from all countries, whether joining guided Vietnam Tours or traveling independently. The VOA was convenient but unreliable, while e-visas offer a streamlined online process for 80 nationalities evisa.gov.vn. This guide provides practical visa comparisons, cultural insights, and eco-friendly Vietnam Travel options for international travelers.

Following Vietnam’s updated travel regulations, the country is accessible via 13 international airports, 16 land borders, and 13 seaports, with e-visas facilitating entry for most. This guide blends visa comparisons, application processes, and sustainable Vietnam Travel ideas for a worry-free adventure.

Administrative Note

The Visa on Arrival (VOA) was discontinued in 2022, replaced by e-visas ($25–$50 or 625,000–1,250,000 VND) for up to 90 days or visa exemptions for eligible nationalities. Passports must be valid for at least 6 months with two blank pages. Cultural site entries like Hoi An cost $5–$7 (125,000–175,000 VND); guided tours range from $15–$80 (375,000–2,000,000 VND). Temporary residence registration with local police is required within 24 hours, typically handled by hotels. Verify visa options and requirements via evisa.gov.vn or travel.state.gov.

Visa Options for International Travelers

• Visa on Arrival (VOA) - Discontinued:

  • Purpose: Previously for tourism, business, or leisure; required pre-approval letter and stamping at airports vietnam-visa.com.

  • Eligibility: Available to most nationalities prior to 2022 vietnam-visa.com.

  • Duration: Typically 30–90 days (single or multiple entry) vietnam-visa.com.

  • Cost: Pre-approval letter: $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND); stamping fee: $25–$50 (625,000–1,250,000 VND); non-refundable vietnam-visa.com.

  • Application Process: Apply online for pre-approval letter (3–5 days); present letter and passport at airport immigration for stamping; required passport photo and USD cash for fee vietnam-visa.com.

  • Extension: Extendable for 1–3 months with sponsor; fees varied ($10–$155 or 250,000–3,875,000 VND) vietnam-visa.com.

  • Entry/Exit Points: Limited to airports (e.g., Noi Bai, Tan Son Nhat); not valid for land or sea borders vietnam-visa.com.

  • Discontinued: Program ended in 2022 due to inefficiencies; travelers must use e-visas or embassy visas vietnam-visa.com.

• E-Visa - Current Option:

  • Purpose: Tourism, business, or leisure for stays exceeding exemptions or for non-exempt nationalities.

  • Eligibility: Available to citizens of 80 countries, including the US, Canada, Australia, India, and most EU nations evisa.gov.vn.

  • Duration: Up to 90 days (single or multiple entry) evisa.gov.vn.

  • Cost: $25 (625,000 VND) for single entry; $50 (1,250,000 VND) for multiple entry; non-refundable vietnam-visa.com.

  • Application Process:

    1. Visit evisa.gov.vn, select English, and click “Apply now” evisa.gov.vn.

    2. Review terms and conditions, then confirm to proceed evisa.gov.vn.

    3. Enter personal details (full name, date of birth, nationality), passport details (number, issue/expiry date), travel details (intended entry/exit dates, entry/exit checkpoints), and temporary address in Vietnam (e.g., hotel address) vietnam-visa.com.

    4. Upload a digital passport photo (4x6 cm, white background, no glasses, straight view) and a scan of the passport data page in .jpg format, max 2MB evisa.gov.vn.

    5. Pay the fee ($25 or $50) via credit/debit card (American Express not accepted); note the verification code vietnam-visa.com.

    6. Check status at evisa.gov.vn/e-visa/search using registration code, email, and date of birth; download and print the e-visa PDF evisa.gov.vn.

    7. Present printed e-visa and passport at the entry checkpoint; ensure details match exactly to avoid entry issues travel.state.gov.

  • Processing Time: 3–7 working days; expedited processing (1–2 days) available through agencies for additional fees ($10–$30 or 250,000–750,000 VND) vietnam-visa.com.

  • Extension: Non-extendable; requires exit and re-entry with a new e-visa (visa run) vietnam-visa.com.

  • Entry/Exit Points: Valid at 13 airports (e.g., Noi Bai, Tan Son Nhat, Da Nang), 16 land borders (e.g., Moc Bai, Lao Cai, Mong Cai), and 13 seaports (e.g., Nha Trang, Da Nang) evisa.gov.vn.

• Key Differences Between VOA and E-Visa:

  • Availability: VOA discontinued in 2022; e-visa is the current online option vietnam-visa.com.

  • Application: VOA required pre-approval letter and airport stamping; e-visa is fully online with printable approval evisa.gov.vn.

  • Entry Points: VOA limited to airports; e-visa valid at airports, land borders, and seaports evisa.gov.vn.

  • Cost and Processing: VOA: $10–$20 letter + $25–$50 stamping (3–5 days); e-visa: $25–$50 (3–7 days) vietnam-visa.com.

  • Extension: Both non-extendable without sponsor; e-visa is more flexible for visa runs vietnam-visa.com.

• Key Requirements for International Travelers

• Passport: Valid for at least 6 months from entry date with two blank pages travel.state.gov.

• E-Visa Application: Requires digital passport photo (4x6 cm, white background, no glasses), passport data page scan, and payment; ensure details match passport evisa.gov.vn.

• Residence Registration: Mandatory within 24 hours, typically handled by hotels; carry proof of registration travel.state.gov.

• Proof of Onward Travel: Required for Phu Quoc exemption; recommended for standard exemption vietnam.travel.

Respecting Vietnam’s Cultural Heritage

Cultural etiquette ensures a respectful experience during Vietnam Tours. Here’s your guide, based on current norms:

• Greetings: Offer a “xin chào” (hello) with a slight nod; use both hands for transactions to show respect, especially at temples or markets like Hanoi’s Old Quarter culturetrip.com.

• Dress: Wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees for temple visits (e.g., Temple of Literature in Hanoi); a lightweight scarf ($1 or 25,000 VND) aligns with local norms vinpearl.com.

• Behaviour: Maintain a calm demeanor at cultural sites; ask permission before photographing locals or rituals; carry passport or e-visa securely to verify status. Avoid public criticism of the Vietnamese government (penalties apply). A guest shared: “Respecting Vietnamese customs made our visa-prepared trip seamless.” culturetrip.com

• Customs: Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated ($0.20–$1 or 5,000–25,000 VND); avoid littering at cultural sites like Ha Long Bay or Hoi An; complete residence registration within 24 hours travel.state.gov.

• Tip: Say “cảm ơn” (thank you) to locals or guides; use eco-friendly practices like reusable water bottles ($2 or 50,000 VND) to support sustainable Vietnam Travel; keep passport handy for checks. Tony Bùi notes: “In 20 years guiding, I’ve seen travelers thrive in Vietnam’s vibrant culture.”

General Tips:

• Language: Carry a phrase card ($1 or 25,000 VND) for Vietnamese basics like “cảm ơn”; English is widely spoken in tourist areas like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, but translation apps are useful culturetrip.com.

• Respect: Follow temple rules (avoid touching sacred items); respect local vendors with fair purchases in markets.

• Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) for cities like Hanoi or Hoi An; carry PassApp for ride-hailing nomadicmatt.com.

• Eco-Tip: Opt for bicycles ($1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND/day) or motorbike taxis ($0.50–$2 or 12,500–50,000 VND) to reduce emissions vietnam.travel.

Below is a curated list of tour options to enhance your visa-prepared journey, based on the latest data from vietnam-visa.com, evisa.gov.vn, travel.state.gov, vinpearl.com, and vietnam.travel. Confirm schedules and prices before booking.

1. Self-Guided Visa-Prepared Exploration

• Details: Explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Hoi An’s ancient town, or Ha Long Bay independently after obtaining your e-visa or exemption; suitable for travelers with valid visa options; low to moderate difficulty vietnam.travel.

• Visa Tips: Use exemptions (if eligible) or e-visas ($25–$50); carry a printed e-visa or passport photocopy; register temporary residence at hotels evisa.gov.vn.

• Schedule: Daily; Hoi An ancient town open 8:00 AM–5:00 PM ($5–$7 or 125,000–175,000 VND); Temple of Literature open 8:00 AM–5:00 PM ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND); Ha Long Bay cruises available daily.

• Cost: Entry: free (markets); Hoi An: $5–$7 (125,000–175,000 VND); Temple of Literature: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND); transport (bicycle: $1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND/day; motorbike taxi: $0.50–$2 or 12,500–50,000 VND); local purchases: $0.20–$10 (5,000–250,000 VND).

• Location: Hanoi, Hoi An, Ha Long Bay, Vietnam.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Use bicycles or walk to reduce emissions; avoid littering at cultural sites.

• Tip: Confirm exemption eligibility or apply for e-visas early; check evisa.gov.vn; a guest noted: “Self-guided exploration was seamless with the e-visa.”

2. Legend Travel Group (Group Visa-Prepared Cultural Tour)

• Details: 1-day group tour visiting Hanoi’s Old Quarter and Temple of Literature; includes English-speaking guide, transport from Hanoi hotels, lunch, and entry fees; low difficulty.

• Visa Tips: Ensure valid exemption or e-visa; carry a printed e-visa or passport photocopy; guides assist with residence registration travel.state.gov.

• Schedule: Daily; departs 7:00 AM from Hanoi hotels; returns by 4:00 PM.

• Cost: $25–$40/person (625,000–1,000,000 VND, includes transport and entry).

• Pick-up/Drop-off: Hotels in Hanoi.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Group transport with fuel-efficient vehicles minimizes impact; supports local communities.

• Tip: Book via legendtravelgroup.com; a guest noted: “Legend’s tour ensured visa compliance and cultural immersion.”

3. Local Vietnam (Combo Visa-Prepared Cultural and Adventure Tour)

• Details: 1-day guided tour visiting Hoi An’s ancient town and a cycling tour; includes English-speaking guide, transport from Hoi An, lunch, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty.

• Visa Tips: Use a multiple-entry e-visa or exemption for multi-city travel; carry a printed e-visa or passport photocopy; confirm eligibility vietnam-visa.com.

• Schedule: Daily; departs 6:30 AM from Hoi An hotels; returns by 4:00 PM.

• Cost: $30–$50/person (750,000–1,250,000 VND, includes entry).

• Pick-up/Drop-off: Hotels in Hoi An.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Small groups and cycling reduce environmental impact; supports local communities.

• Tip: Book via localvietnam.com; a guest noted: “The combo tour was visa-ready and enriching.”

4. Multi-Day Visa-Prepared Cultural and Adventure Tour (Legend Travel Group)

• Details: 2–3 day tour combining Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, and Hoi An; includes English-speaking guide, transport, accommodation, meals, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty.

• Visa Tips: Use a multiple-entry e-visa for multi-city travel; carry a printed e-visa or passport photocopy; confirm temporary residence registration travel.state.gov.

• Schedule: Daily; departs from Hanoi hotels; returns after 2–3 days.

• Cost: $80–$200/person (2,000,000–5,000,000 VND, includes entries).

• Pick-up/Drop-off: Hotels or custom locations in Hanoi.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Uses eco-lodges and fuel-efficient transport; supports local communities.

• Tip: Book Vietnam Tours via legendtravelgroup.com or WhatsApp (+84 825862222); a guest noted: “The multi-day tour was a visa-smart cultural journey.”

• Self-Guided Exploration: Flexible and cost-effective, ideal for travelers with visa exemptions or e-visas.

• Group Cultural Tours: Affordable and guided, perfect for visa-compliant cultural insights.

• Combo Cultural and Adventure Tours: Blend cultural visits with eco-friendly activities for a comprehensive journey.

• Multi-Day Cultural and Adventure Tours: Offer in-depth exploration with visa-smart itineraries.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Group and multi-day tours use fuel-efficient transport or bicycles, supporting Vietnam’s green tourism goals.

Key visa-prepared travel opportunities include:

• Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year): Typically late January to February, vibrant with temple ceremonies and family traditions; warm and dry (18–28°C); check dates at vietnam.travel.

• Hung Kings Festival: Typically March to April, honoring Vietnam’s founders; warm and dry (24–32°C); check dates at vietnam.travel.

• Mid-Autumn Festival: Typically September, festive with lantern parades; warm and wet (24–31°C); check dates at vietnam.travel.

• Cultural Site Visits: Dry season (January–August) for comfortable weather; February for optimal conditions vinpearl.com.

Dry season (January–August, 18–33°C) is ideal for visa-prepared travel and cultural visits. Hot period (April–August, 24–33°C) suits early morning outings. Wet season (September–December, 24–31°C) is best for budget travelers and indoor experiences. Morning visits (6:00 AM–10:00 AM) avoid crowds and heat. Verify forecasts via weather.com.

• Visa Tips: Note VOA discontinuation; use e-visas ($25–$50) for convenience over embassy visas; apply 3–7 days early; use exemptions for eligible nationalities vietnam-visa.com.

• Etiquette: Use “xin chào”; dress modestly for temples; respect local customs; avoid littering at cultural sites.

• Access: Choose self-guided exploration for flexibility, group tours for visa-compliant insights, or multi-day tours for immersion.

• Schedules: Cultural sites open 8:00 AM–5:00 PM; markets open 6:00 AM–6:00 PM; peak crowds in dry season (January–August); book early for festivals.

• Sustainability: Use bicycles or motorbike taxis; carry reusable items; support local vendors with fair purchases.

• Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) for cities like Hanoi or Hoi An.

• Weather: Dry season (Jan–Aug, 18–33°C) ideal; hot period (Apr–Aug, 24–33°C) suits early mornings; wet season (Sep–Dec, 24–31°C) requires rain gear; check forecasts via weather.com.

• Safety Note: Secure valuables with a money belt ($2 or 50,000 VND); beware of pickpocketing in markets or nightlife areas; carry emergency numbers (Police: 113, Medical: 115).

• Is Visa on Arrival still available in Vietnam? No, discontinued in 2022; use e-visas or embassy visas vietnam-visa.com.

• What is the difference between VOA and E-Visa? VOA (discontinued) required airport stamping with pre-approval; e-visa is fully online with printable approval evisa.gov.vn.

• How much does an E-Visa cost? $25 (single entry) or $50 (multiple entry); non-refundable vietnam-visa.com.

• Can E-Visas be extended? No, requires exit and re-entry with a new e-visa vietnam-visa.com.

• What are the penalties for overstaying? Fines of 500,000 VND/day ($20/day); potential exit bans or deportation travel.state.gov.

• Where can I enter Vietnam with an E-Visa? 13 airports, 16 land borders, and 13 seaports evisa.gov.vn.

Enhance your visa-prepared Vietnam journey with eco-conscious tours from Legend Travel Group:

• Vietnam Cultural Eco-Tour ($25–$40/person, 1 day): Guided temple and market tour with sustainable practices.

• Vietnam Cultural and Adventure Trail ($80–$150/person, 2 days): Explore cultural sites and eco-friendly activities.

• Vietnam Explorer ($150–$250/person, 3 days): Multi-site adventure with eco-lodges and community-focused activities. Prices include guides, transport, and entry fees; group discounts available. Explore options at legendtravelgroup.com or contact sales@legendtravelgroup.com / WhatsApp (+84825862222) for your Vietnam Travel plans.

Mastering Vietnam Visa on Arrival vs E-Visa with cultural etiquette—modest attire, polite greetings like “xin chào,” and visa-smart planning—unlocks a vibrant, eco-friendly journey through this Southeast Asian gem. With tour costs from $15–$200, sustainable Vietnam Tours, and attractions like Hoi An and Ha Long Bay, this trip offers adventure and sustainability. Whether choosing a self-guided or guided experience with Vietnam Travel, use e-visas for convenience since VOA is discontinued, and respect local customs for the best experience. Safe travels!

Sources:

• vietnam-visa.com

• evisa.gov.vn

• travel.state.gov

• vinpearl.com

• vietnam.travel