Vietnam, a country renowned for its captivating landscapes and rich cultural heritage, is a dream destination for many travelers. However, before you start packing your bags, it's crucial to understand the visa requirements for entering Vietnam. A common way to gain entry into the country is through the Vietnam visa approval letter, which we'll explore in detail.
1. What is a Vietnam visa approval letter?
Previously, foreign nationals had to visit the Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate in their home country to apply for a visa, which could be challenging in countries where there is no Vietnamese consular office. However, with the Vietnam visa approval letter, the process has become more efficient, saving time, effort, and money compared to obtaining a regular visa.
The Vietnam visa approval letter allows foreign nationals to enter Vietnam. However, before entry, foreign nationals must show their approval letter and have their visa stamped in their passport by immigration officers at the international border checkpoint. Without the visa stamp in the passport, the Vietnam visa approval letter is not valid for entry to Vietnam.
The Vietnam visa approval letter is an official document issued by the Immigration Department in Vietnam. To obtain the approval letter, foreign nationals must have a qualified legal entity in Vietnam acting as their sponsor or guarantor.
>>> Read more: Vietnam travel requirements: A guide for a seamless trip
2. A sample of Vietnam visa approval letter
The Vietnam visa approval letter for foreign nationals typically includes the following information:
- Information about the sponsor
- Information about the person being sponsored
- Purpose of entry
- The duration of the stay in Vietnam
- The address for receiving the Vietnam visa
The Vietnam visa approval letter is not a visa itself. Foreign nationals must bring a copy of the visa approval letter to the Vietnamese diplomatic mission (Embassy/Consulate) or the international border checkpoint to have their visa stamped.
>>> Or you can find out how to get an e-Visa for Vietnam!
3. Requirements for getting the Vietnam visa approval letter
The process of applying for a Vietnam visa approval letter is as follow:
- Step 1: Prepare the required documents
Depending on the purpose of entry, the required documents for visa approval letter application may vary. The details are provided below.
- Step 2: Submit the visa approval letter application
The sponsoring entity in Vietnam (the applicant) should submit one set of application documents to the Immigration Department in Vietnam. After receiving the application, if all the required documents are complete, the officer will issue a receipt and schedule a date for result collection.
- Step 3: Receive the result
The Immigration Department will inform the applicant about the result on the scheduled date. The visa approval letter will specify the entry date and the location for visa stamping for the foreign national.
- Step 4: Notify the foreign national to receive the visa approval letter and pay the fee
Once the Vietnam visa approval letter is issued, the applicant should inform and send the approval letter to the foreign national via email, fax, or courier.
At the visa stamping location, the foreign national should fill out and submit Form NA1 with a 3x4 photo attached, their passport, a copy of the Vietnam visa approval letter, and a visa stamping fee to enter Vietnam.
>>> Check out the detailed guide on how to get a Vietnamese visa!
4. Documents needed to apply for the Vietnam visa letter of approval
4.1. For foreign nationals
- A completed visa approval letter application (Form NA2) as per the Immigration Department's guidelines
- A scanned copy of their passport with at least 6 months of validity
- Information on the entry date and duration of stay in Vietnam
- Information on the requested location for visa stamping (Tan Son Nhat Airport, Noi Bai Airport, Moc Bai Border Gate, etc.)
4.2. For sponsoring entities
- Business registration certificate/investment license.
- Tax identification number (TIN) registration certificate.
- An introduction letter with the signature and seal of the authorized person of the company.
- An approval letter for visa stamping at an international airport or border gate.
5. Where to apply for the Vietnam visa approval letter?
- In Hanoi: 44-46 Tran Phu Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi.
- In Da Nang: 78 Le Loi Street, Hai Chau District, Da Nang
- In Ho Chi Minh City: 337 Nguyen Trai Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Within 5 - 7 working days, the Immigration Department will review, process, and respond to the applicant. They will also inform the relevant Vietnamese diplomatic mission for visa issuance.
>>> Learn more about the Vietnam embassy for an easier visa application!
6. The fee for applying for the Vietnam visa approval letter
The fee depends on the duration and frequency of entry. Here are the specific details:
- Single entry: $25 USD
- Multiple entries within 3 months: $50 USD
- Multiple entries from 3 to 6 months: $95 USD
- Multiple entries from 6 months to 1 year: $135 USD
- Multiple entries from 1 year to 2 years: $145 USD
- Multiple entries from 2 years to 5 years: $155 USD
- Foreign nationals under 14 years old: $25 USD
>>> Find a detailed breakdown of the cost of visa for Vietnam!
Vietnam is a beautiful country worth visiting. With its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and long-standing history, Vietnam will offer a unique and captivating travel experience in your Asia travel.
The best time to visit Vietnam varies depending on the region. No matter when you come, Vietnam will present something new. Therefore, make sure to mark your calendar for an unforgettable experience!
For those planning a trip to Vietnam, it is highly recommended that you explore iconic urban cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, as well as picturesque coastal destinations such as Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Hoi An, Da Nang, and Ha Long.
To make your journey in these destinations more enjoyable, consider indulging in the luxurious hotels and resorts of Vinpearl. With exceptional amenities and services, you can truly unwind and relax during your stay at Vinpearl.
Additionally, don't miss the chance to discover VinWonders, a system of amusement and theme parks ideal for all ages.
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Before embarking on your Vietnamese adventure, obtaining the Vietnam visa approval letter is a crucial step. It expedites the visa application process and ensures a smooth entry into this beautiful country. After securing your visa approval letter, you can rest assured to explore the wonders of Vietnam and make unforgettable memories in this enchanting land.
