Home Arrow FAQ Arrow Can I apply for a Visa on Arrival if I enter Vietnam by land?

Can I apply for a Visa on Arrival if I enter Vietnam by land?

No. Vietnam visa on arrival is only granted to those who travel to Vietnam by air. Regardless of your transportation method, whether land or sea, you must get a fully allowed visa before your trip to Vietnam. Unlike visas on arrival in other countries, which may be obtained directly at the entrance border gate, Vietnam does require a visa approval letter beforehand. This is for the immigration officer to stamp their visa once travelers arrive at one of the international airports in Vietnam.

Vietnam visa on arrival is divided into two categories based on your travel purpose:

  • A tourist visa on arrival is a single entry visa with a validity of 30 days. This type of visa is used for engaging in tourist activities in Vietnam and cannot be extended.

  • A business visa on arrival is issued for either one or multiple entries and is valid for up to three months. To apply for this visa, you must have a sponsor company in Vietnam, where you will work once you arrive. A business visa on arrival can be extended once if you are sponsored by the same company. 

Here is a step-by-step instruction to apply for a Vietnam visa upon arrival: 

  • Complete the online application selecting the approval letter

  • Make payment for the service charge

  • Download and print the approval letter we sent you via email. Prepare the entry-and-exit application form (also known as the Vietnamese visa application form), your valid passport, two passport-sized (4x6 cm) photos, and cash for the stamping cost. 

  • To obtain your VISA stamped on your passport, show the officer at the Landing VISA (VOA) Counter at the international airport in Vietnam the prepared documents listed above.

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