Planning your next trip from India to Vietnam and wondering how long the e-visa will take? You’re not alone. Many Indian travellers face confusion or last-minute stress when it comes …
For many Indian travellers planning a journey to Vietnam, understanding the visa process often becomes one of the most important tasks before departure. With different rules for different types of trips, and online information that is frequently outdated or unclear, many Indian tourists and business travellers face confusion while preparing their travel documents. Some assume that Vietnam provides an on-the-spot visa at the airport without any advance paperwork, only to be stopped at the airline counter because they don’t have the mandatory pre-approval letter. Others realise too late that Vietnam follows a regulated system where certain nationalities, including Indians, must secure prior clearance before boarding. This comprehensive guide has been written specifically for Indian passport holders. It explains the purpose of the pre-approval letter, eligibility criteria, required documents, application steps, processing times, and what to expect at the Vietnamese airport. With proper preparation, Indian travellers can enjoy a smooth entry process and begin their Vietnam trip without any last-minute complications.
Vietnam does not offer visa-free entry to Indian passport holders, which means that Indians must organise either a visa in advance or a pre-approval letter that allows them to receive a visa at the airport. For travellers planning to obtain a visa on arrival, the pre-approval letter is a compulsory document. Airlines are instructed to verify this letter before check-in, and Indian passengers who do not have it may be denied boarding regardless of their travel plans.
A common misunderstanding among Indian travellers is that Vietnam offers a traditional “walk-in” visa on arrival. In reality, Vietnam uses a pre-clearance method in which travellers must be screened by the immigration authorities before they fly. Only after the application is approved will they be permitted to collect their visa at the airport. The pre-approval letter represents this prior screening, giving Indian travellers official confirmation that their details have been checked and authorised in advance.
Having the pre-approval letter in hand is also crucial from a risk-prevention perspective. Many Indian travellers have had their flights disrupted because they were unaware of the requirement. Airlines across India and abroad strictly follow Vietnam’s immigration rules and will not check in passengers without the correct documentation. With the pre-approval letter ready, travellers can feel confident that the arrival process will proceed smoothly.
The Vietnam visa pre-approval letter is a formal immigration document issued by the Vietnam Immigration Department. It is not a simple travel confirmation or a routine letter; it is an official clearance stating that the traveller has been authorised to receive a visa upon arrival. The approval is issued only after immigration officers review the submitted details through an authorised visa agency that communicates directly with the government.
This letter is an essential part of Vietnam’s border control system. By reviewing Indian travellers before they arrive, immigration officers can ensure that the individuals meet basic entry requirements and do not pose any legal or administrative issues. When travellers present the pre-approval letter at the airport, officers can quickly match the information with their internal records and proceed with issuing the visa.
Legally, the pre-approval letter functions as a pre-entry authorisation. For Indian citizens, this document is compulsory when choosing the visa-on-arrival method. Without this approval, travellers cannot rely on airport-issued visas and must instead apply for a different visa type prior to their journey. Therefore, the pre-approval letter plays a vital role in ensuring compliance with Vietnam’s immigration laws.
Indian passport holders are eligible to apply for the Vietnam visa pre-approval letter through an online process. The first requirement is that the passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of arrival. A damaged passport or one nearing expiry could result in delays or rejection, as Vietnam adheres to strict documentation rules.
Immigration officials may also check whether the traveller has previously overstayed in Vietnam or violated immigration regulations. Most Indian travellers, however, do not face such issues, as they typically have clean travel records. The system is designed to verify identity and ensure that travellers meet basic entry standards before receiving approval.
The documentation required is minimal. Indian applicants only need a clear scanned copy of the passport’s information page and essential travel details such as the intended arrival date and the airport of entry. A confirmed return ticket is not required, but providing accurate itinerary details helps reduce the chance of mistakes that might slow down processing. Overall, the requirements are simple and easily manageable.
Step 1: Prepare your documents and travel details
Before starting the application, ensure you have a scanned copy of your passport’s information page. You will also need to know your planned arrival date and the Vietnamese international airport where you intend to land. These details must be accurate to avoid delays.
Step 2: Submit the online form through VietnamImmigration.com
This website provides a structured application form that matches the requirements used by Vietnamese immigration authorities. Indian travellers simply need to fill in their personal information, travel plans and visa type before submitting the request for review.
Step 3: Wait for immigration processing
After the application is submitted, it will be reviewed by the Vietnam Immigration Department. Processing times vary depending on whether you choose standard or urgent service, as well as the current workload. Once approved, the pre-approval letter will be issued.
Step 4: Receive and print your letter
The approved letter will be sent to your email inbox. You must print a physical copy—a black-and-white printout is completely acceptable—and keep it with your travel documents. Airlines require this letter for check-in, and Vietnamese immigration officers will verify it on arrival.
Most Indian travellers receive their pre-approval letters within three to five business days under standard processing. This allows immigration officers to verify passport information, identity details and planned travel dates. However, during busy travel seasons, applying early is recommended.
For travellers in a hurry, urgent processing is available. Under urgent service, approval may be completed within two to eight hours, depending on the time of submission and the workload of immigration officials. Although urgent processing comes with higher fees, it is extremely helpful for Indian travellers with tight schedules.
Urgent service is ideal for Indians who:
• have a flight scheduled in the next few days
• need immediate confirmation for airline requirements
• made sudden changes to their travel dates
• previously submitted incorrect information and need fast re-approval
Choosing the right processing speed ensures your travel plans remain uninterrupted.
Upon landing in Vietnam, travellers who have the pre-approval letter must follow the visa-on-arrival procedure. This process is designed for individuals whose details have already been cleared by immigration authorities, which helps shorten processing time at the airport.
Documents required include:
• Printed copy of the pre-approval letter
• Completed entry/exit form
• Two passport-sized photographs (4 x 6 cm)
• Original Indian passport
• Cash for the visa stamping fee (INR, USD or VND accepted, though USD is recommended)
After landing, proceed to the Visa on Arrival counter before joining the immigration queue. Submit your documents, pay the stamping fee and wait as your visa is prepared. The typical processing time ranges from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the number of travellers.
Visa stamping fees must be paid in cash, as credit cards are not accepted. Many Indian travellers find it easier to carry USD for this purpose, as it ensures smooth handling at the counter. Once the visa is affixed to your passport, you can continue to immigration for final entry clearance.
How long can Indian travellers stay in Vietnam with a visa issued through the pre-approval letter?
Tourist visas normally allow a stay of 15 to 30 days. Business, work or long-term visas may provide validity ranging from three months to two years, depending on documentation.
Can Indian travellers extend their Vietnam visa after arriving?
Tourist visas generally cannot be extended within Vietnam. Certain long-term or business-related visas may qualify for extensions through the Vietnam Immigration Department.
Do Indian travellers need a return ticket to apply for the pre-approval letter?
A return ticket is not necessary when applying. However, travellers must provide their planned arrival date, departure date and entry point. Airlines may request proof of onward travel during check-in.
How early should Indian travellers apply for the pre-approval letter?
You may apply well in advance—weeks or even months before travelling. If your dates are not finalised, wait until your schedule is confirmed. To avoid delays, Indian travellers should apply at least ten days before travel.
Does the pre-approval letter act as a visa for Indian citizens?
No. The pre-approval letter is not the visa itself. It simply authorises you to receive your visa at the airport. The visa becomes valid only after it is stamped into your passport.
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