For many New Zealanders planning a trip to Vietnam, understanding the visa process can feel a bit more involved than expected. With rules that vary by travel purpose and frequent …
For many travellers from New Zealand, Vietnam’s Visa on Arrival (VOA) option appears to be an easy and flexible way to enter the country. However, the VOA system is often misunderstood, and arriving without the correct paperwork can cause significant inconvenience. Some Kiwi travellers have been surprised at check-in when airlines ask to see the mandatory approval letter, while others arrive in Vietnam only to find they cannot complete the visa process because a required document is missing. To help you avoid these issues, this guide outlines everything New Zealand visitors need to know—from eligibility and pre-travel requirements to the documents you must bring and detailed airport procedures—to ensure a smooth and stress-free arrival in Vietnam.
New Zealand citizens are eligible to obtain a Visa on Arrival when travelling to Vietnam, but the process is not handled directly at the airport unless you have organised the approval letter beforehand. This letter is issued by the Vietnam Immigration Department and serves as formal authorisation for your visa to be printed and stamped upon arrival. Without it, airlines may refuse to let you board, and immigration officers at the airport will not be able to process your visa.
The VOA system supports a range of travel purposes, including tourism, business activities, and visiting family or friends. Kiwi travellers who appreciate flexibility in their travel schedule often choose this option, particularly if they require a multiple-entry visa or plan trips with short notice. The key is preparing everything in advance so there are no surprises on arrival.
If you fly into Vietnam without the required approval letter, immigration staff cannot issue your VOA under any circumstance. The policy is strict, and exceptions are rarely, if ever, made. This is why airlines enforce document checks before departure, with New Zealand travellers often asked to show their approval letter when checking in luggage or collecting their boarding pass.
Although e-visas are another popular choice, the VOA remains a strong option for New Zealand travellers who want more flexibility. As long as you follow the correct steps before departure, it is a straightforward and reliable process.
New Zealand passport holders must ensure their passports are valid for at least six months beyond their intended date of entry into Vietnam. This requirement is enforced strictly by both airlines and Vietnamese immigration officials. Your passport must also contain at least two blank pages, as the visa sticker and stamping process require dedicated space.
Another essential requirement is the visa approval letter, which must be arranged before you leave New Zealand. The information on the approval letter must match your passport exactly, including your full legal name, passport number, and expected date of arrival. Bringing printed copies is strongly recommended, as airport staff typically require physical documentation.
Travellers may also be asked to show proof of onward travel, such as a return ticket or itinerary detailing their next destination. Accommodation details, such as hotel bookings or booking confirmations, are also sometimes requested, especially during busy travel periods or when further verification is needed.
New Zealanders must also adhere to Vietnam’s ongoing entry rules, which may include health requirements, customs declarations, and border regulations. These can vary depending on the season, public health conditions, or policy updates, so checking the latest information before travelling is a smart idea.
When you arrive in Vietnam, you must present a printed copy of your visa approval letter, which is the foundation of the VOA process. Electronic files stored on your phone may not be accepted, and relying solely on digital versions can lead to unnecessary delays. Printed, legible copies are the safest option.
New Zealand travellers must also complete the NA1 entry/exit form. While this form is available at the airport, filling it out in advance is more convenient and helps you avoid holding up the line. Along with the form, you must provide two passport-sized photos (4 × 6 cm), taken recently and meeting the official photo requirements.
Your passport will be handed to immigration officers while they process the visa sticker. During this time, you will need to pay the VOA stamping fee in USD cash. The current fees are $25 USD for single-entry visas and $50 USD for multiple-entry visas. Since other currencies and card payments are rarely accepted, having exact USD cash ready will save time.
You may also be asked to show supporting documents such as your accommodation details or travel plans. Keeping printed copies of these documents helps ensure a smoother process, especially if you arrive during peak travel seasons.
Before leaving New Zealand, apply for your visa approval letter through a reputable service provider. A trusted platform such as VietnamImmigration.com can help you review your information, submit your application, and receive your approval letter quickly. Once approved, print the letter, prepare two photos, and complete the NA1 form so everything is ready for your arrival.
When your flight lands 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 to the Visa on Arrival counter before entering the main immigration hall. Submit your approval letter, NA1 form, photos, and passport, then pay the visa stamping fee in USD cash.
The processing time usually ranges from 10 to 25 minutes, depending on the number of passengers arriving at the same time. Immigration staff will verify your approval letter, check your documents, and place the visa sticker inside your passport. Once complete, your passport will be returned with the visa attached.
After collecting your passport from the VOA counter, head to the main immigration area to complete the entry process. Once cleared, you may proceed to baggage claim and continue to customs.
The visa approval letter must be arranged before flying to Vietnam and cannot be obtained at the airport. This document is issued by the Vietnam Immigration Department and confirms that you are authorised to collect your visa through the VOA system.
New Zealand travellers can apply for the approval letter through licensed agencies such as VietnamImmigration.com, which handle document verification and application submission. Using an experienced service ensures your information is accurate and minimises errors that can lead to delays at the airport.
Applicants must provide passport details, planned travel dates, arrival airport, and visa type (tourist or business). Once the application is processed, the approval letter will be emailed to you as a PDF. You must print it before travelling, and having backup printed copies is recommended.
Common errors include mismatched dates, incorrect passport numbers, or misspelled names. Reviewing your details before submitting ensures a smoother and quicker arrival in Vietnam.
Standard processing typically takes three to five business days, making it suitable for travellers who plan their trips ahead of time. New Zealand travellers who need the approval letter urgently may select express processing services, which can deliver the letter in 2 to 8 hours, depending on availability and timing. Same-day processing is also possible for travellers with time-sensitive schedules.
Processing may take longer during Vietnamese public holidays or peak travel seasons. Incomplete or inaccurate information can also cause delays, so ensuring everything is correct when submitting your details is helpful.
To avoid last-minute stress, it is recommended that New Zealand travellers apply for their approval letter at least one week before their flight, giving enough time for corrections if needed.
Before departing, ensure your passport is free of damage, stains, or loose pages. Vietnamese immigration officers are strict about passport condition, and travellers with damaged passports may be denied entry. Carrying printed versions of all essential documents—especially the approval letter—is the safest approach.
Many delays occur because travellers forget to bring USD cash, present photos that don’t meet requirements, or arrive at the airport without a completed entry form. Preparing everything in advance not only saves time but also reduces stress after a long international flight.
Vietnam’s immigration and customs rules can change throughout the year. Travellers arriving during busy seasons, major holidays, or periods of increased health screening should expect possible additional checks.
By organising your documents, carrying the correct currency, and reviewing entry rules before departure, you’ll enjoy a much smoother arrival process and begin your trip in Vietnam with confidence.
Vietnam’s Visa on Arrival is a flexible and convenient entry option for New Zealand travellers, provided the required steps are completed before boarding your flight. The approval letter is essential, and having printed documents, passport photos, and USD cash ensures a simple process when you arrive. By using a reliable visa service such as VietnamImmigration.com, New Zealand travellers can obtain their approval letter quickly and begin their journey with peace of mind.
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