If you’re a Kiwi planning a trip to Vietnam in 2025, you’re in for an exciting adventure. From bustling city streets to tranquil beaches, this Southeast Asian gem offers a …
Vietnam is becoming an increasingly popular destination for Kiwis looking for a culturally rich, affordable, and scenic getaway. But before you book your flight to Hanoi, Hoi An, or Ho Chi Minh City, you need to make sure your visa is sorted. Many travellers from New Zealand experience delays—or even rejections—due to avoidable errors in the visa process. This up-to-date guide gives you a step-by-step breakdown of how to apply correctly, avoid the pitfalls, and get your Vietnam tourist visa approved smoothly.
It might come as a surprise, but even minor mistakes in your visa application can lead to serious setbacks. For instance, inputting your name incorrectly, choosing the wrong visa category, or submitting low-quality passport photos can trigger a rejection. These are easy-to-make but costly errors.
Another common issue involves dates that don’t match travel plans. If your visa start date doesn’t align with your flight, or your itinerary suggests multiple entries but you apply for a single-entry visa, immigration officers might deny your entry upon arrival.
Some travellers also overlook the importance of submitting clear, legible copies of their passport’s data page. Smudged or cut-off scans can cause delays or make your application invalid, especially when processed through automated systems.
New Zealand passport holders have two main visa options for visiting Vietnam: the E-Visa and the Visa on Arrival (VOA). Each option caters to different types of travellers and preferences.
The E-Visa is an all-online process. It allows a single or multiple entry and is valid for up to 90 days. You can enter Vietnam through airports, land borders, and seaports. This option is ideal for travellers who like everything confirmed in advance and want to avoid long queues at immigration counters.
Meanwhile, Visa on Arrival is available exclusively for those entering Vietnam by air. You must apply for an approval letter online before departure. Once you land at a Vietnamese airport, present the letter, your passport photo, and the required form to get the visa stamped. It’s a good option for those booking last-minute trips and flying directly into Vietnam.
While both options are safe and effective, the E-Visa is often preferred by New Zealanders for its simplicity and flexibility.
Start by selecting the visa type that best matches your travel plans. Next, collect the essential documents: your valid New Zealand passport (with at least six months validity), a recent passport photo with a white background, and a clear scan of the passport’s biographical page.
For E-Visa applications, go to the official Vietnam Immigration portal or a reputable visa processing service such as Vietnam Immigration. Complete the form carefully, upload your documents, pay the fee with a valid card, and wait for your visa to be emailed to you—usually within 3–5 business days, or within hours for express processing.
If you’re applying for a Visa on Arrival, you’ll first need to get a pre-approval letter through a trusted platform like Vietnam Immigration. Once received, print it and bring it with you. Upon arrival at a Vietnamese airport, go to the VOA counter, present your documents, and pay the stamping fee to receive your visa.
Following this checklist ensures you’re fully prepared and less likely to experience issues at the border.
Although applying independently is possible, many New Zealand travellers opt for visa support services to make the process faster and error-free. Services like Vietnam Immigration offer expert document checking, around-the-clock support, and expedited processing.
You’ll also gain access to features like document verification before submission and a 100% visa approval guarantee. This is especially helpful for first-time travellers or those with tight timelines.
Professional services offer peace of mind, minimise the chance of rejection, and help ensure your visa is ready well ahead of your flight date. For the small extra fee, many Kiwis feel the added confidence is well worth it.
👉 Start your visa application now with Vietnam Immigration
Getting a Vietnam tourist visa as a New Zealand citizen in 2025 doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right preparation, a solid understanding of your visa options, and reliable assistance, you can ensure a smooth and successful application process. Let the adventure begin—with your visa secured and your travel plans ready to go.
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