Vietnam is one of Southeast Asia’s most popular travel destinations, offering a rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, one of the key things you need to know is the Vietnam visa requirements for Indians. In this article, we will take you through the various types of Vietnam visa for Indians, the process of applying for a Vietnam visa, and the associated Vietnam visa cost.
Types of Vietnam Visa for Indians
Indians planning to visit Vietnam must secure a visa before their arrival. There are several ways to obtain a Vietnam visa. Let’s explore the options available:
1. Vietnam E-Visa for Indians
One of the easiest ways for Indian travellers to obtain a visa for Vietnam is through the Vietnam E-Visa system. Introduced in 2017, the Vietnam E-Visa is an electronic visa that allows Indian citizens to apply for a visa online. The process is quick and convenient, and you don’t need to visit the embassy or consulate.
Key points about the Vietnam E-Visa:
- Validity: The e-visa is valid for 30 days, a single entry.
- Processing Time: It generally takes about 3 to 5 business days to process.
- Application Process: You can apply online by filling out the application form, uploading your photo and passport copy, and paying the visa fee. Once approved, the e-visa is sent to your email, and you can print it out for use at the airport.
- Entry Points: The e-visa is valid for entry through 33 international airports, seaports, and land borders in Vietnam.
While the Vietnam E-Visa is a convenient option for Indian travellers, it is important to check if your entry point accepts this type of visa, as not all border crossings do.
2. Vietnam Visa on Arrival for Indians
Another option available for Indians is the Vietnam visa on arrival. This visa is processed through an online pre-approval system and can be obtained upon arrival at one of Vietnam’s international airports, such as Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Ho Chi Minh City) or Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi).
Steps for Vietnam Visa on Arrival for Indians:
- Step 1: Apply for a visa approval letter through a licensed travel agency in Vietnam. You will need to provide your passport details and travel information. The agency will process your visa approval and send you the approval letter by email.
- Step 2: Once you receive the approval letter, print it out and bring it with you to Vietnam, along with two passport-sized photos, the visa stamping fee, and your passport.
- Step 3: On arrival in Vietnam, proceed to the Visa on Arrival counter, where the visa will be stamped into your passport.
Vietnam Visa on Arrival Fees:
- Processing Fee: This varies depending on the type of visa (single or multiple entry). You will pay the processing fee to the agency when you apply for the approval letter.
- Stamping Fee: You’ll pay the stamping fee at the airport when you arrive in Vietnam. This fee varies based on the type of visa you have been granted (single entry or multiple entry) and typically ranges from $25 to $50 USD.
The Vietnam visa on arrival is a great option for travellers who prefer to obtain a visa after arriving in Vietnam, but note that it is only available for air travel.
3. Vietnam Visa for Indians via Embassy or Consulate
The third option is to apply for a Vietnam visa through the nearest Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate. This process involves filling out a visa application form, submitting your passport, passport-sized photographs, and other required documents, and paying the Vietnam visa fee.
Key points about obtaining a visa through the embassy:
- Validity: You can apply for both single-entry or multiple-entry visas, depending on your travel plans.
- Processing Time: Typically, the processing time ranges from 3 to 5 business days.
- Required Documents: Passport (valid for at least 6 months), passport-sized photographs, application form, and visa fee.
4. Vietnam Visa-Free Countries: Does India Qualify?
Currently, Vietnam does not offer visa-free access for Indian passport holders. However, several countries around the world are eligible for visa-free entry to Vietnam, including Japan, South Korea, Denmark, Finland, and several others. Indian travelers are not on this list, meaning a Vietnam visa for Indians is a mandatory requirement.
Vietnam Visa Cost for Indians
The Vietnam visa fee for Indians varies depending on the type of visa you choose, whether it’s an e-visa, visa on arrival, or embassy visa.
- Vietnam E-Visa Fee:
- The Vietnam e-visa cost for Indian citizens is generally around $25 USD.
- This is a one-time fee for a single-entry visa and covers the processing cost.
- Vietnam Visa on Arrival Fee:
- The stamping fee for a Vietnam visa on arrival is generally around $25 to $50 USD, depending on the type of visa (single-entry or multiple-entry).
- The approval letter processing fee varies by the travel agency but generally ranges from $10 to $20 USD.
- Vietnam Embassy Visa Fee:
- The Vietnam embassy visa fee for Indian nationals typically ranges from $50 to $100 USD, depending on the type of visa (single or multiple-entry), the duration of stay, and the country where you apply.
- The fees may also vary depending on the processing time (standard or expedited).
Vietnam Visa Free for Indian Citizens
As of now, Vietnam does not offer visa-free entry for Indian passport holders. However, certain nationalities do enjoy visa exemptions for short stays. For Indian travelers, a visa is necessary for all types of travel.
Tips for Indian Travelers Applying for a Vietnam Visa
- Check the Visa Requirements: Before applying for your visa, make sure to check the specific requirements based on the type of visa you need and the entry point into Vietnam.
- Apply Early: Apply for your Vietnam visa well in advance of your trip to avoid last-minute issues.
- Verify Fees: Ensure you are aware of all the applicable fees, including processing and stamping fees, when applying for your Vietnam visa.
- Travel Agency Assistance: Consider using a reliable travel agency for assistance with your Vietnam visa application, especially for visa-on-arrival or expedited processes.
Conclusion
In summary, Indian travellers need a Vietnam visa to visit the country, and there are several options available, including the Vietnam e-visa, Vietnam visa on arrival, and embassy/consulate visa. Each option comes with different processing times, costs, and entry requirements, so it’s essential to choose the one that best suits your travel plans. With this guide, you now have all the information you need to successfully apply for a Vietnam visa for Indians and enjoy your trip to this beautiful and culturally rich country. Safe travels!
