You’ve booked your flight to Vietnam, maybe even found that dreamy beach in Da Nang you want to visit. But suddenly, reality hits — do you need a visa? If …
If you’re an Australian planning a trip to Vietnam—whether it’s to sample street food in Ho Chi Minh City, unwind on the beaches of Da Nang, or explore the heritage of Hanoi—you’ll need a visa to enter. Thankfully, Vietnam offers a convenient Landing Visa option for Aussie passport holders. With the right preparation, this visa type can make your arrival smooth and stress-free. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process, outline what’s required, and share tips to make sure your journey to Vietnam starts on the right foot.
A Vietnam Landing Visa, sometimes referred to as a Visa on Arrival, allows travellers to collect their visa when they land at one of Vietnam’s international airports. This option is available to citizens from certain countries, including Australia, provided they’ve applied online for a visa approval letter before arriving.
This visa type is ideal for those who don’t have easy access to a Vietnamese embassy or who are booking travel on short notice. Once your approval letter is issued, you can fly to Vietnam, present your documents, and receive your visa stamp at the airport.
It’s important to remember that this isn’t an automatic visa granted on arrival. It requires a bit of planning, and the approval letter is a mandatory part of the process. Still, it’s an efficient alternative to traditional consulate applications.
Aussie travellers intending to obtain a Landing Visa should ensure they have the following documents ready:
Although the process is relatively simple, don’t leave things to the last minute. Missing paperwork can result in delays or even denial of entry. Many travellers find it helpful to also bring a completed NA1 visa form to save time on arrival.
Make sure your passport is in good condition and that your personal details are entered correctly when applying online, as discrepancies can lead to issues upon landing.
The Landing Visa is available at specific airports only. If you’re flying from Australia, you’ll need to arrive at one of the following international airports to make use of this service:
Be aware that this visa option isn’t available at border crossings or seaports. If you’re planning to enter Vietnam overland, you’ll need to arrange a different type of visa ahead of time.
Don’t assume you can board your flight without the approval letter—many airlines will ask to see it during check-in. Not having it could result in being denied boarding.
It’s also smart to arrive earlier in the day if possible. Queues at the visa desk can be long, particularly during busy travel periods or late-night arrivals.
If you’re travelling with kids, elderly family members, or just want to get through the process quicker, consider using a Fast Track service at the airport. This can make a big difference if you’re short on time or patience.
Lastly, double-check every detail on your approval letter. Even a small error in your name or passport number could cause major delays at immigration.
While you can certainly apply for the visa approval letter yourself, using a reliable visa support provider like Vietnam Immigration Services can save time and ensure accuracy. Here’s what they offer:
Using a professional service not only gives you peace of mind but also helps avoid surprises when you land. It’s a smart move, especially for first-time visitors.
For Australians travelling to Vietnam in 2025, the Landing Visa offers a straightforward and flexible entry option. By applying online in advance and arriving with the right paperwork, you’ll avoid the red tape and get straight into enjoying your trip. Whether you’re going for business, leisure, or something in between, securing your visa through a trusted service makes the whole process easier.
You’ve booked your flight to Vietnam, maybe even found that dreamy beach in Da Nang you want to visit. But suddenly, reality hits — do you need a visa? If …
