For many travellers from India, Vietnam has become an exciting and increasingly accessible destination. Among the different visa options available, the Vietnam Visa on Arrival (VOA) is often considered the most flexible. However, the VOA system has important rules that Indian visitors must understand before beginning their journey. Without the required approval letter or the proper documents printed in advance, travellers may face delays, confusion at the airport, or even risk being denied entry. This guide has been prepared specifically for Indian travellers to help you navigate the process smoothly, understand the eligibility criteria, prepare the right documents, and complete the airport procedures confidently.
Indian passport holders are indeed eligible to obtain a Vietnam Visa on Arrival, but the service is not an instant or on-the-spot visa that you can request after landing. The VOA process only works if you already have a visa approval letter issued by the Vietnam Immigration Department. Airlines flying from India to Vietnam often check this letter before allowing passengers to board, as travellers without it will not be accepted for VOA processing in Vietnam.
VOA is available for various travel purposes, such as leisure trips, business visits, or meeting family and friends in Vietnam. Many Indian travellers choose this option because it offers more flexibility, especially when planning trips at short notice or when requiring specific visa durations. But the convenience of VOA depends entirely on whether the traveller has completed the required steps before departure.
Arriving in Vietnam without the approval letter will result in the traveller being turned away at the VOA counter. The immigration officers at Vietnamese airports follow strict guidelines, and exceptions are not made under any circumstances. For this reason, Indian travellers must ensure that the document is printed clearly and carried in hand with other essential travel papers.
While Vietnam also offers an e-visa system, the VOA remains a suitable choice for Indian travellers needing flexible travel arrangements. With proper preparation, the VOA process is straightforward and efficient.
Indian travellers need to ensure that their passports are valid for at least six months beyond the date they plan to arrive in Vietnam. This rule is enforced strictly by both immigration officers and airline staff. The passport should also contain a minimum of two blank pages for the visa sticker and entry stamps that will be added at the airport.
A visa approval letter is mandatory for VOA. This letter must be arranged before travelling and must accurately match your passport details, including your full name, passport number, nationality, and date of arrival. Carrying printed copies is essential, as electronic versions are not accepted at the VOA counter.
Indian travellers may also be asked to show proof of onward travel, such as a return ticket, to confirm their intention to leave Vietnam within the permitted time. Accommodation bookings or hotel confirmations may also be requested, especially during busy seasons or when documentation needs verification.
Additionally, travellers must comply with Vietnam’s health and customs requirements. These regulations can vary depending on seasonal travel conditions or government advisories, so it is recommended to check updated guidelines before starting your journey from India.
When you arrive in Vietnam, the most important document you must carry is the printed visa approval letter. This document authorises the immigration officers to issue your VOA stamp. Electronic copies stored on mobile devices are usually not accepted, which makes carrying a printed version crucial.
You will also need to submit a completed NA1 entry/exit form. Although this form is available at the airport, Indian travellers can save time by completing it before departure. Along with the form, two recent passport-sized photos (4 × 6 cm) are required. Immigration officers are strict about photo specifications, so bringing the correct size is essential to avoid delays.
Your original Indian passport will be checked and held temporarily while your visa sticker is issued. During this process, you must pay the VOA stamping fee in USD cash. The fee is $25 USD for a single-entry visa and $50 USD for a multiple-entry visa. Since card payments and INR are not accepted, carrying the exact amount in cash is highly recommended.
You may also be asked to show your hotel booking, itinerary, or contact details in Vietnam. Having printed copies of all such documents makes the arrival process much quicker and helps avoid unnecessary complications.
Indian travellers must apply for the visa approval letter through an authorised visa service. Trusted platforms such as VietnamImmigration.com assist with verifying the details, submitting the application to the Vietnam Immigration Department, and delivering the approval letter by email. Once you receive the letter, print it clearly, prepare two photos, and complete the NA1 form before your flight.
When your flight from India arrives at Noi Bai International Airport, Da Nang International Airport, Tan Son Nhat International Airport, Cam Ranh International Airport, Phu Quoc International Airport, Cat Bi International Airport, or Lien Khuong International Airport, proceed directly to the Visa on Arrival counter before entering the main immigration area. Submit your approval letter, passport, photos, and NA1 form, then pay the stamping fee in USD cash.
The processing time typically ranges from 10 to 25 minutes, depending on the number of travellers arriving at the same time. Immigration staff will verify all your documents, confirm your approval letter, and place the visa sticker inside your passport. After the verification is complete, your passport will be returned to you along with the visa.
Once your passport is returned, proceed to the immigration counters for the final entry check. After clearing immigration, you can move forward to collect your luggage and continue to customs.
The approval letter must be arranged before leaving India, and it cannot be issued at the airport. It is an official document provided by the Vietnam Immigration Department and is necessary for issuing the VOA.
Indian travellers can apply for the approval letter through licensed visa agencies such as VietnamImmigration.com, which specialise in checking details, preparing applications, and coordinating with immigration authorities. Using a reliable service helps avoid mistakes that can cause delays or rejections.
Travellers need to provide basic passport information, intended arrival dates, visa type (tourist or business), and the chosen airport of arrival. Once approved, the letter will be sent via email, and it must be printed for use. It is advisable to carry multiple copies in case one is misplaced.
Common mistakes include spelling errors, incorrect passport numbers, or mismatched dates. Checking the details carefully before submitting the application ensures a smooth, trouble-free entry into Vietnam.
The approval letter typically takes three to five working days for standard processing. This timeline suits most Indian travellers who plan their trips ahead. However, those with urgent travel needs can choose express processing options, which deliver approval within 2 to 8 hours depending on the service level. Same-day and two-day services are also available.
Processing may take longer during major Vietnamese holidays, peak travel seasons, or if the submitted information has inconsistencies. Indian travellers should be prepared for potential delays during these periods.
To avoid unexpected issues, it is recommended that Indian travellers request the approval letter at least one week before the travel date, giving sufficient time for any corrections or follow-up steps.
Before departure, Indian travellers must ensure their passports are in good condition. Torn, damaged, or altered passports can lead to denied entry upon arrival. Printed copies of all documents are necessary, especially the approval letter, as digital copies are often not accepted at the VOA counter.
Many travellers from India experience delays due to incorrect photo sizes, missing forms, or insufficient USD cash for the stamping fee. Preparing everything in advance will reduce waiting time and help you pass through the airport efficiently.
Vietnam’s immigration and customs regulations may change depending on travel season or government updates. Travellers arriving during festivals, public holidays, or peak periods should expect possible additional checks or longer processing times.
Having your documents organised, carrying USD cash, and understanding the VOA process in advance will make your arrival experience smooth and comfortable, allowing you to begin your Vietnam journey without stress.
Vietnam’s Visa on Arrival is a convenient and flexible option for Indian travellers, provided all required steps are completed before the trip. The approval letter is essential, and carrying printed documents, appropriate photos, and USD cash ensures a straightforward entry process. Using a reliable visa agency such as VietnamImmigration.com helps Indian travellers obtain their approval letter efficiently and enjoy a smooth arrival in Vietnam.
