When travelers visit a foreign country, they must obtain permission to enter. Visa on arrival and e-Visa Vietnam are two different options for travelers who want to visit the country. The first one can be obtained at an international airport in Vietnam, while the second must be acquired before the trip. Both visa forms are equally important, each with its advantages and disadvantages.
Visa on arrival is a convenient option for travelers who do not have the time to apply for an e-Visa before they travel. This type can be obtained quickly and easily at any international airport in Vietnam, with no prior application or approval required. However, it can be more expensive than an e-Visa because it incurs additional processing fees.
An online visa is a great way to save money, nerves, and time. You need this document before you travel to Vietnam. Usually, it is a much cheaper option than a visa on arrival. It also requires less paperwork because travelers can simply upload their passports and other essential documents to their e-Visa application without visiting the embassy or consulate. However, the processing time for an e-Visa can be longer.
What is an e-Visa to Vietnam?
An online visa is an electronic document that enables travelers to visit Vietnam. The process of obtaining an e-Visa is done online without visiting the embassy or consulate. You just need to go to the website, click on the ‘Apply Online’ button, fill in the application form, attach the necessary documents, and cover the fee.
You can apply for your Vietnam eVisa on the website, which is a very convenient option. Pay attention to the provided details and avoid mistakes that can lead to delays. Also, check out the list of eligible countries and other requirements before applying for an online visa. After that, wait for the confirmation and your e-Visa in PDF form, which will be sent via email.
What is a Vietnam Visa on Arrival?
Vietnam visa on arrival allows one to travel to the country without obtaining a visa earlier. You just need a valid passport and then apply for a visa at one of the entry points in Vietnam, such as Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi, Tan Son Nhat in Ho Chi Minh City, Danang Airport in Da Nang, Cat Bi Airport in Hai Phong, or Cam Ranh Airport in Nha Trang.
Before you decide to get a visa on arrival, check if your country is on the eligible list. Also, remember that you must get prior approval from the Vietnamese Immigration Department to get this document. To do so, you need to take part in the online process and pay the fee. Also, you should prepare a valid passport, a recent photo of your face on a white background, and a completed entry and exit form.
What are the Differences between Online Visa and Visa on Arrival?
There are several major differences between an online visa and a visa on arrival:
- The application process is different. You need to get an e-Visa before the trip, while a visa on arrival is obtainable at the entry point in the country.
- The price and processing time of the Vietnam e-Visa and visa on arrival vary.
- You will receive your e-Visa in PDF form via email while the visa on arrival is picked up at the entry point.
- Vietnam visa on arrival is available for air travelers from over 150 countries, while e-Visa is designed only for 80 nationalities.
- The validity period of the visa on arrival is up to 1 year, while e-Visa is valid for one month.
- Vietnam e-Visa can be used only for tourism-related purposes, while a visa on arrival is for tourism and business trips.
Pros and cons of e-Visa and Visa on Arrival
Both e-Visa and visa on arrival have their advantages and disadvantages. So, Vietnam e-Visa pros and cons are as follows:
- The process of application is straightforward and convenient. You don’t need to go to the embassy to obtain it.
- Everything is done electronically; you just need a device with an internet connection.
- There is no additional paperwork, and the visa is extendable.
- The processing time usually is very fast, but as it depends on many factors, delays are possible.
- It is valid only temporarily and can be used for tourism-related purposes.
- Not all nationalities are eligible for a Vietnam visa.
When it comes to the visa on arrival, we can assume that:
- You don’t need to focus on it earlier and can get it in the country.
- It is possible to extend this visa type.
- You need to wait in line at the airport to obtain a visa on arrival.
- The points of entry are limited.
- There are more requirements when compared with an e-Visa.
