Are you an Indian citizen planning to explore the pristine beaches of Da Nang, the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City, or the ancient charm of Hanoi? But then …
The Vietnam landing visa permit has become one of the most commonly searched travel documents among international visitors. With entry regulations being updated frequently and online information often inconsistent, many travellers are unsure how the landing visa system actually works. Some believe they can simply fly to Vietnam and obtain a visa directly at the airport, while others discover only at check-in that advance approval is required. To avoid confusion and ensure a smooth arrival, it is essential to understand what the landing visa permit is, how it works, and the correct steps to obtain it. This guide explains everything clearly—from eligibility and required documents to processing times and the exact procedures you will follow at the airport.
A Vietnam landing visa permit (often called an “approval letter”) is an official document issued by the Vietnam Immigration Department. It serves as advance authorisation allowing a traveller to collect a visa on arrival at a Vietnamese international airport. Without this permit, airlines are not allowed to check passengers in for Vietnam-bound flights, as the country does not provide a direct walk-in visa on arrival.
The purpose of the permit is to complete pre-arrival immigration screening. Vietnam reviews the traveller’s identity, passport validity and basic travel information before approving the request. Once approved, the traveller receives a permit that must be printed and carried during the journey.
Although it is not the visa itself, the landing visa permit functions as the legal prerequisite for obtaining the visa stamp after landing. It ensures that airport immigration officers can process the visa quickly, without re-checking documents from scratch.
The landing visa permit is available to most travellers visiting Vietnam for tourism, business meetings, family visits and short-term activities. The process is simple, and the document requirements minimal:
• A valid passport (at least six months remaining)
• A clear scan of the passport information page
• Proposed arrival date and intended airport of entry
• Basic travel information for pre-screening
A confirmed return ticket is not required, but accurate travel details reduce the chance of processing errors.
Step 1: Prepare your passport scan and travel information
Make sure your passport is valid and your intended arrival information is accurate.
Step 2: Submit the online application through VietnamImmigration.com
Travellers complete an application form through VietnamImmigration.com, which provides the official format required for submission to the Vietnam Immigration Department.
Step 3: Immigration processing
Your information is reviewed by Vietnam’s immigration officers. Depending on the service selected (standard or urgent), processing time may vary from several days to just a few hours.
Step 4: Receive the landing visa permit
Once approved, the permit will be emailed to you. You must print the document—a black-and-white copy is acceptable—and carry it with your travel documents.
Typical processing durations include:
• Standard service: 3–5 business days
• Urgent service: 2–8 hours
Urgent options are ideal for last-minute travel or unexpected changes in itinerary.
Upon arrival at a Vietnamese international airport, follow these steps:
Is the permit the same as the visa?
No. The permit is pre-approval; the visa is issued on arrival.
How long can travellers stay?
Most landing visas allow 15–30 days, depending on visa type.
Is a return ticket required?
Not for the permit application, but some airlines may request onward travel documentation.
Can the landing visa be extended?
Tourist landing visas usually cannot be extended, while some business visas may qualify for extension.
Which airports accept landing visas?
Major airports including Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang.
Are you an Indian citizen planning to explore the pristine beaches of Da Nang, the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City, or the ancient charm of Hanoi? But then …
