Arriving at a Vietnamese airport without a visa can be stressful, but it’s actually straightforward if you know the process. This guide explains exactly how to get a Vietnam visa at the airport – covering visa on arrival, e-visa, required documents, costs, and step-by-step instructions. Whether you’re landing in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, or elsewhere, you’ll find everything you need.
Understanding Vietnam’s Airport Visa Options
There are two main ways to get a visa at a Vietnamese airport: the Visa on Arrival (VOA) and the E-Visa. Both allow you to obtain your visa upon landing, but they work differently. The VOA requires a pre-approval letter, while the e-visa is applied online in advance. Here’s a quick comparison:
Visa on Arrival vs. E-Visa at Airport
| Feature | Visa on Arrival (VOA) | E-Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Application | Apply online for pre-approval letter | Apply online (no letter needed) |
| Processing Time | 1-2 business days (urgent available) | 3-5 business days |
| Visa Pickup | At airport immigration counter | Print e-visa at home |
| Validity | 30 days single or multiple entry | 30 days single entry |
| Cost (USD) | $25-$50 (letter) + $25 stamping fee | $25 |
| Eligible Nationalities | Most countries (except some exempt) | 80+ eligible countries |
| Airports | All international airports | All international airports |
What You Need Before You Fly
To get a Vietnam visa at the airport, you must prepare certain documents before your flight. Without them, you may be denied boarding or entry. Here’s your checklist:
1. Valid passport (6+ months validity, 2 blank pages). 2. Pre-approval letter (for VOA) or printed e-visa (for e-visa). 3. Two passport-sized photos (4x6 cm). 4. Stamping fee in cash (USD or VND). 5. Completed entry/exit form (provided on arrival).
Step-by-Step: Visa on Arrival at Airport
The Visa on Arrival is the most common method for travelers who didn’t apply for an e-visa. Here’s the exact process:
Step 1: Get a Pre-Approval Letter Online
Before your flight, you must obtain a visa approval letter from a licensed Vietnam immigration agency (like NamVisa.com). This letter is your ticket to board the plane. You apply online, pay a service fee ($15-$50 depending on urgency), and receive the letter via email in 1-2 business days. Print two copies – one for check-in and one for immigration.
Step 2: Board Your Flight
At the airport, show your approval letter at check-in. Airlines require it to issue your boarding pass. Without it, you won’t be allowed to fly. Keep the letter with your passport.
Step 3: Arrive at Vietnam Airport
After landing, follow signs to immigration. Look for the “Visa on Arrival” counter (often near the main immigration hall). At major airports like Tan Son Nhat (HCMC) or Noi Bai (Hanoi), it’s clearly marked. There may be a queue – be patient.
Step 4: Submit Documents & Pay Stamping Fee
At the counter, present your passport, approval letter, photos, and completed entry form. Pay the stamping fee in cash: $25 for single entry, $50 for multiple entry (USD or VND equivalent). The officer will process your visa and stamp it into your passport.
Step 5: Collect Passport & Proceed to Immigration
Once your visa is stamped, collect your passport and proceed to the immigration queue. Present your passport to the officer, who will verify and stamp you in. Welcome to Vietnam!
To speed up the process, fill out the entry form (NA5) before you land. You can download it from NamVisa.com. Also, have exact cash ready for the stamping fee – change may not be available.
Step-by-Step: E-Visa at Airport
If you applied for an e-visa online, the process is simpler. You don’t need a pre-approval letter. Just follow these steps:
Step 1: Apply for E-Visa Online
Go to the official Vietnam e-visa portal (evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn) or use a service like NamVisa.com. Fill in your details, upload a passport photo and scanned passport page, pay $25, and wait 3-5 business days. You’ll receive a PDF e-visa via email.
Step 2: Print Your E-Visa
Print two copies of the e-visa. One for check-in, one for immigration. Keep it with your passport.
Step 3: At the Airport
At check-in, show your e-visa. Upon arrival, go directly to the immigration counter (no separate VOA counter needed). Present your passport and printed e-visa. The officer will stamp you in. No additional fee required.
Vietnam International Airports & Immigration Offices
Vietnam has several international airports where you can get a visa on arrival or use an e-visa. Each has its own immigration counter setup. Here’s what to expect:
Major Vietnam Airports & Visa Services
| Airport | City | Visa on Arrival Counter | E-Visa Accepted |
|---|---|---|---|
| Noi Bai International (HAN) | Hanoi | Yes (near immigration hall) | Yes |
| Tan Son Nhat (SGN) | Ho Chi Minh City | Yes (dedicated counter) | Yes |
| Da Nang International (DAD) | Da Nang | Yes (clear signage) | Yes |
| Cam Ranh International (CXR) | Nha Trang | Yes (small counter) | Yes |
| Phu Quoc International (PQC) | Phu Quoc | Yes (limited hours) | Yes |
| Cat Bi International (HPH) | Hai Phong | Yes (counter available) | Yes |
Processing Times at Airport Immigration
How long does it take to get a visa at the airport? On average, the VOA process takes 15-30 minutes at the counter, plus immigration queue time (10-20 minutes). E-visa holders skip the VOA counter, so they usually pass through in 5-10 minutes. During peak hours (especially at Tan Son Nhat), wait times can double. Arriving early or during off-peak times (midday or late evening) helps.
Cost Breakdown: Vietnam Visa at Airport
Understanding the costs upfront prevents surprises. Here’s the full breakdown for 2025:
Visa Costs at Airport (USD)
| Service | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| VOA pre-approval letter (standard) | $15-$25 | 1-2 business days |
| VOA pre-approval letter (urgent) | $30-$50 | 4-8 hours |
| Stamping fee (single entry) | $25 | Paid at airport in cash |
| Stamping fee (multiple entry) | $50 | Paid at airport in cash |
| E-visa fee | $25 | Paid online, no extra charge |
| Photo service (if needed) | $5-$10 | Available at airport counters |
| Total VOA (standard single) | $40-$50 | Letter + stamping fee |
| Total E-visa | $25 | All inclusive |
The stamping fee at the airport must be paid in cash. USD is widely accepted, but bring small bills ($1, $5, $10) for exact change. VND is also fine. Credit cards are not accepted at the VOA counter.
Common Issues & How to Avoid Them
Many travelers face problems when getting a visa at the airport. Here are the most common issues and solutions:
Missing Pre-Approval Letter
Without a valid approval letter, you cannot get a VOA. Ensure you print it before flying. If you lose it, contact your agency for a reprint (they can email a new copy to a nearby internet café).
Wrong Photo Size or Quality
Photos must be 4x6 cm, white background, no glasses. If yours don’t meet requirements, the airport has photo booths ($5-$10). Save time by bringing correct photos.
Passport Expiry or Blank Pages
Your passport must have at least 6 months validity from your arrival date and two blank visa pages. Airlines check this before boarding. If not, you’ll be denied.
Long Queues at Peak Times
Arrive at the airport during off-peak hours (e.g., 10 AM-2 PM or after 9 PM). Avoid early morning (6-9 AM) and late afternoon (4-7 PM) when multiple flights arrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a Vietnam visa at the airport without a pre-approval letter?
No. For Visa on Arrival, you must have a pre-approval letter issued by a licensed agency. For e-visa, you need the printed e-visa. Neither can be obtained at the airport without prior application.
How long does it take to get a visa at the airport?
The VOA process takes 15-30 minutes at the counter, plus immigration queue. E-visa holders pass through in 5-10 minutes. Total time can be 20-60 minutes depending on crowds.
What if my flight arrives at 2 AM? Is the visa counter open?
Yes. Major airports like Tan Son Nhat and Noi Bai operate 24/7 for immigration. Smaller airports may have limited hours, but they accommodate all arriving flights.
Can I pay the stamping fee with a credit card?
No. The stamping fee must be paid in cash (USD or VND). Bring exact change to avoid issues.
Do I need a visa if I’m just transiting?
If you stay in the international transit area and don’t pass immigration, you don’t need a visa. But if you leave the airport, you need a visa (VOA or e-visa).
What if my e-visa is rejected?
E-visa rejections are rare. If rejected, you can apply for a VOA pre-approval letter instead. NamVisa.com offers assistance for both options.
Can I extend my visa after arrival?
Yes. You can extend your visa at an immigration office in Vietnam (e.g., in Hanoi or HCMC). Extensions cost $10-$20 and take 3-5 business days.
How NamVisa.com Can Help
Navigating visa processes can be confusing, but NamVisa.com simplifies it. We offer fast, reliable pre-approval letters for VOA and e-visa application assistance. Our team ensures your documents are correct, and we provide 24/7 support. With NamVisa, you get a 99.9% approval rate and instant email delivery. Whether you need a standard letter or urgent processing, we’ve got you covered. Plus, our website has detailed guides, sample forms, and cost calculators.
Ready to Get Your Vietnam Visa?
Don’t let visa stress ruin your trip. Apply now with NamVisa.com for a hassle-free experience. Get your pre-approval letter in as little as 4 hours!
Apply for Vietnam Visa NowFinal Tips for a Smooth Airport Visa Experience
To wrap up, here are key takeaways: 1. Always apply for your visa (VOA or e-visa) at least 3-5 days before travel. 2. Print all documents and carry extra copies. 3. Bring cash in USD for stamping fees. 4. Arrive early to allow for queues. 5. Double-check your passport validity and photo requirements. 6. Use a trusted agency like NamVisa.com to avoid scams. With this guide, you’ll get your Vietnam visa at the airport without any trouble. Safe travels!