Getting a visa can sometimes feel like navigating a maze of paperwork and ever-changing regulations—especially when you’re heading to a country like Vietnam, where immigration policies are regularly updated. But …
Heading to Vietnam from New Zealand in 2025? Whether you’re planning a cultural escape, a foodie adventure, or a backpacking journey, there’s one important detail to get sorted before your departure—your visa. For Kiwis arriving at Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport, Vietnam’s visa on arrival system is a simple and efficient solution. However, you’ll need to prepare in advance. In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to get your visa, what documents to bring, and how to breeze through the airport with no surprises.
Yes, New Zealand citizens are eligible to apply for a visa on arrival (VOA) when flying into Vietnam, including through Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi. This option is available for air arrivals only—not land or sea entries—and is widely used by Kiwi travellers each year.
That said, the term “visa on arrival” can be misleading. You’re not able to just turn up and apply at the airport. Instead, you’ll need to request a visa approval letter online before your flight. This letter is issued by Vietnam’s Immigration Department and acts as permission for you to receive your visa once you land.
Without this approval letter, you’ll likely be refused boarding by the airline. So, while the final step takes place at the airport, the groundwork must be completed well ahead of time.
To make your arrival in Hanoi as smooth as possible, there are a few important items to get sorted before leaving New Zealand.
The most critical document is your visa approval letter. This can be obtained online via a reputable provider such as Vietnam Immigration. Their platform is easy to use, and they typically deliver the approval letter within 2 to 8 hours, depending on the processing time you choose.
In addition to that, you’ll need two passport-sized photos (4cm x 6cm), taken within the last six months, with a white background. These are required for your visa application upon landing. Don’t forget to double-check the size requirements, as incorrect photos may not be accepted.
You’ll also need to complete a Vietnam Entry and Exit Form (NA1). This form is available online, and filling it out before your trip can save time when you arrive. Some travellers wait until arrival, but that often leads to delays at busy hours.
Finally, have cash ready to pay the stamping fee. For 2025, the fees are USD $25 for single entry or USD $50 for multiple entries. Payment must be made in cash—either in US dollars or Vietnamese dong. Card payments are not accepted at the visa desk.
After you land at Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi, your first stop won’t be immigration—it’ll be the Visa on Arrival counter, usually located before the passport control area. There are signs directing you there, and staff are available if you’re unsure where to go.
At the counter, hand over your printed visa approval letter, completed NA1 form, passport, passport photos, and the visa fee. An officer will review everything and then ask you to wait briefly while your visa is processed.
Depending on the time of day and number of arrivals, the wait can range from 15 to 45 minutes. Once your name is called, you’ll receive your passport with the visa sticker inside. Always double-check the details on your visa to make sure there are no errors.
With your visa ready, you can then proceed to the regular immigration line to get officially stamped in. After that, pick up your luggage, and you’re all set to begin your Vietnam journey.
While the process is straightforward, there are some common mistakes that can lead to unnecessary delays—or even denial of entry. Here’s what to watch out for:
Avoiding these issues will ensure your arrival in Hanoi goes off without a hitch.
Don’t want to worry about paperwork? You’re not alone. Many New Zealanders opt to use a professional visa service to handle everything ahead of time. Vietnam Immigration is one of the most trusted platforms for this.
Here’s what they offer:
With this kind of support, you can focus on the fun part—planning your trip.
For Kiwis flying into Vietnam in 2025, the visa on arrival is a flexible and traveller-friendly option—as long as you’re organised. From getting your approval letter in advance to carrying the right documents and cash, a little preparation goes a long way.
Rather skip the paperwork altogether? Use a reputable service like Vietnam Immigration and travel with confidence, knowing everything is sorted before you even board the plane.
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