⚡ VISA QUICK TIP
How to Get a Vietnam Visa on Arrival Approval Letter
⚡ Quick Answer
Apply through a licensed online visa agent ($10–30 USD) to receive the approval letter by email within 1–3 days, then pay the stamp fee in cash ($25–50 USD) at the airport.
Unlike the e-visa which you receive as a complete document, Visa on Arrival (VOA) is a two-step process: get the approval letter first, then pay the stamp fee at the airport.
Step by Step
- Choose a licensed Vietnam visa agent online and pay the letter fee ($10–30 USD)
- Submit your details: passport number, nationality, arrival date, and airport
- Receive the approval letter by email within 1–3 business days — print it out
- At the Vietnam airport, go to the “Landing Visa” counter (separate from regular immigration)
- Show letter + passport + 1 passport photo, then pay the stamp fee in cash USD
| VOA Type | Stamp Fee (USD) |
|---|---|
| 1 month, single entry | $25 |
| 1 month, multiple entry | $50 |
| 3 months, multiple entry | $50 |
⚠️ Bring cash USD. Most airport stamp fee counters do not accept cards. Exact change is preferred.
Is e-visa or VOA better?
E-visa almost always wins: same or lower total cost ($25 vs $35–80), approved before you travel, no airport queue, 90-day validity. Only use VOA if you genuinely need same-day processing.
How long is the VOA queue at the airport?
At SGN (HCMC): up to 3 hours peak. At HAN (Hanoi): 15–30 minutes. Budget this time on top of regular immigration queuing.
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