Navigating the immigration process in Hanoi can be straightforward if you know where to go and what to expect. This guide covers the Hanoi Immigration Office (also known as the Vietnam Immigration Department's Hanoi branch), visa services, e-visa procedures, processing times, costs, and practical tips to help you save time and avoid common pitfalls.
Where Is the Hanoi Immigration Office?
The main Hanoi Immigration Office is located at:
- Address: 69 Mac Thai To Street, Yen Hoa Ward, Hanoi (the department moved here from Tran Phu Street in June 2026, and files are handed in at Gate 2 on Nguyen Quoc Tri Street)
- Phone: +84 24 3825 7941
- Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM and 1:30 PM to 4:00 PM, and Saturday morning 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM
Two Counters Handle Hanoi Files
Hanoi has two immigration counters and they do not do the same work. The Immigration Department at 69 Mac Thai To takes national-level files, including applications filed by companies and sponsors based from Quang Nam northward. The Hanoi City Police immigration division at 44 Pham Ngoc Thach, Dong Da, takes extensions, temporary residence cards and other residence paperwork for people staying in the city, and it runs a second counter at 6 Quang Trung, Ha Dong. If you are not sure which counter your case belongs to, call the division on 0692 191 515 before you travel, because turning up at the wrong one costs you a day.
Services Provided by the Hanoi Immigration Office
The office handles a wide range of immigration services, including:
- Visa issuance and extension (tourist, business, work, student, etc.)
- Temporary residence registration and confirmation
- Permanent residence applications
- Visa exemption certificates
- Passport replacement or renewal for foreigners
- Exit visa processing
- Work permit and temporary residence card related services
Important: The Hanoi Immigration Office does not process e-visa applications. E-visas are applied online via the official Vietnam e-visa portal. However, you may visit this office for visa extensions, visa type changes, or to resolve e-visa issues.
Vietnam Visa Types Available Through Hanoi Immigration
Depending on your purpose of visit, you can apply for or extend these visa types:
- Tourist Visa (DL): 1 month single/multiple entry, extendable up to 3 months
- Business Visa (DN1/DN2): 3 months to 1 year, multiple entries
- Work Visa (LD1/LD2): 1 to 2 years, requires work permit
- Student Visa (DH): Valid for course duration
- Visa Exemption Certificate: For visa-free entry under bilateral agreements
- Temporary Residence Card: 1 to 5 years, for long-term stays
E-Visa Process for Hanoi (2026)
Vietnam's e-visa system is available for citizens of 80+ countries. Here's how to apply:
- Step 1: Visit the official Vietnam e-visa portal (https://evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn)
- Step 2: Fill out the online application form with personal details, passport info, and travel dates
- Step 3: Upload a passport photo (white background) and a scanned passport data page
- Step 4: Pay the fee online (single entry: $25 USD, multiple entry: $50 USD)
- Step 5: Receive e-visa via email within 3 working days (processing can take up to 5-7 days during peak times)
- Step 6: Print the e-visa and present it upon arrival at Hanoi's Noi Bai International Airport
Tip: If you need a visa urgently, consider using a visa agency like NamVisa.com for faster processing (often 1-2 business days) and support with documents.
Processing Times at Hanoi Immigration Office
Processing times vary by service:
- Visa extension: 5-7 working days (standard), 1-3 days (urgent, extra fee)
- Visa renewal: 5-10 working days
- Temporary residence card: 7-15 working days
- Visa exemption certificate: 5-7 working days
- Work permit related: 7-10 working days
- Urgent processing: Available for an additional fee (usually 50-100% of standard fee)
Costs for Visa Services (USD)
Fees are subject to change. Below are approximate costs:
- E-visa (single entry): $25 USD
- E-visa (multiple entry): $50 USD
- Visa extension (1 month): $10-20 USD
- Visa renewal: $15-30 USD
- Temporary residence card: $30-50 USD
- Urgent processing surcharge: $20-50 USD per service
- Visa agency fee (via NamVisa): $10-30 USD per application
Visa Service Fees at Hanoi Immigration Office
| Service | Standard Fee (USD) | Urgent Fee (USD) | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| E-visa (single entry) | 25 | N/A (online only) | 3-5 days |
| E-visa (multiple entry) | 50 | N/A (online only) | 3-5 days |
| Visa extension (1 month) | 10 | 20 | 5-7 days |
| Visa renewal (3 months) | 15 | 30 | 5-10 days |
| Temporary residence card (1 year) | 30 | 50 | 7-15 days |
| Visa exemption certificate | 15 | 25 | 5-7 days |
How to Get to the Hanoi Immigration Office
The office is in Yen Hoa ward, about 9 km west of Hoan Kiem Lake. Here are transportation options:
- Taxi/Grab: 15 to 25 minutes from Hoan Kiem Lake depending on traffic, and longer in the morning rush
- Bus: plan the route before you set out; the office sits on Mac Thai To at the corner with Nguyen Quoc Tri
- Motorbike: parking on the surrounding side streets (small fee)
Tips for a Smooth Visit to Hanoi Immigration Office
Follow these tips to avoid delays and frustration:
- Arrive early (before 8:30 AM) to avoid long queues
- Bring original passport and photocopies of all relevant pages
- Fill out forms in advance (download from the immigration website or NamVisa.com)
- Carry passport photos (4x6 cm, white background, at least 2 copies)
- Have cash (Vietnamese Dong) for fees. Cards are not always accepted
- Dress modestly and professionally (office is a government building)
- Be patient. Staff may speak limited English; consider hiring a translator or using NamVisa's support
- Check public holidays (e.g., Tet, National Day) as the office is closed
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a visa on arrival at Hanoi Immigration Office?
No, visa on arrival is only available at international airports (like Noi Bai) with a pre-approval letter. The Hanoi Immigration Office handles extensions and other services.
How long does it take to extend my visa in Hanoi?
Standard processing takes 5-7 working days. Urgent processing (1-3 days) is available for an extra fee.
Can I apply for a work visa at the Hanoi Immigration Office?
Yes, but you need a valid work permit first. The office processes work visa applications and temporary residence cards for employees.
What if my visa expires while I'm in Hanoi?
You must apply for an extension before the expiry date. Overstaying can result in fines (up to $500 USD) and possible deportation. Contact the immigration office immediately.
Do I need an appointment to visit the Hanoi Immigration Office?
No appointment is needed, but you may have to wait in line. Some services (like work permits) may require prior online registration.
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