Vietnam Visa on Arrival (VOA) – Complete 2025 Guide

Everything you need to know about getting a visa on arrival in Vietnam

1. What is Vietnam Visa on Arrival (VOA)?

Vietnam Visa on Arrival (VOA) allows travelers to pick up their visa directly at a Vietnam international airport, after obtaining a pre-approval letter from the Vietnam Immigration Department.

👉 It is only available for air travelers (not land or sea entry).

2. Who Can Apply for VOA?

  • Citizens from countries not eligible for visa exemption.

  • Travelers eligible for visa approval letter issued by Vietnam Immigration.

  • Passengers entering Vietnam by international flights only.

📌 Note: If you’re arriving by land or cruise → You must apply for an e-Visa instead.

3. How Vietnam VOA Works (Step by Step)

  1. Apply online for a pre-approval letter (via Vietnam Entry Visa).

  2. Receive approval letter by email (PDF).

  3. Print letter & prepare documents (passport, photos, stamping fee in cash).

  4. Present documents at VOA counter (airport arrival hall).

  5. Pay stamping fee & collect visa stamped in your passport.

4. Required Documents for VOA

  • Passport valid for 6+ months (2 blank pages)

  • 2x passport photos (4×6 cm, white background)

  • Printed visa approval letter

  • Completed entry/exit form (provided on plane or at airport)

  • Stamping fee in cash: USD 25 (single entry) / USD 50 (multiple entries)

5. Processing Time for VOA Approval Letter

  • Standard: 3–5 working days

  • Urgent: 1-Day Service

  • Super Urgent: Same-Day Service

  • Holiday Service available (weekends & public holidays)

6. Where Can You Get VOA in Vietnam?

VOA is available at major international airports:

  • Noi Bai (Hanoi – HAN)

  • Tan Son Nhat (Ho Chi Minh City – SGN)

  • Da Nang (DAD)

  • Cam Ranh (Nha Trang – CXR)

  • Phu Quoc (PQC)

7. VOA vs. Vietnam E-Visa

Feature Visa on Arrival (VOA) Vietnam E-Visa
Application process Pre-approval letter + airport pickup 100% online, email delivery
Entry points Airports only Airports, land borders, seaports
Processing time 1–5 working days (letter) + airport stamping 3–5 working days, directly valid
Extra steps Airport stamping queue + cash fee Directly used at immigration

👉 For most travelers, the Vietnam e-Visa is faster & simpler. VOA is mainly used when urgent approvals are needed.

8. FAQ – Vietnam Visa on Arrival

Q: Can I get VOA without pre-approval?
No. Airlines will not allow boarding without a valid approval letter.

Q: What if I arrive by land border?
VOA is not available. You must apply for an e-Visa.

Q: Is VOA still valid in 2025?
Yes, VOA remains valid at airports, but e-Visa is recommended for most travelers.

Why Apply with Vietnam Entry Visa?

  • ✅ Trusted since 2010 (Nguyen Adventure brand)

  • ✅ Secure & fast approval letter processing

  • ✅ 24/7 urgent service — even on weekends & holidays

👉 Start your VOA approval letter now → Apply for Vietnam Visa Online