With Vietnam opening its doors wider to global travelers, obtaining a visa has never been easier. However, the choice between an E-visa and a traditional visa can be perplexing for first-time visitors.
1. Understanding the Vietnam E-Visa
Introduced to streamline entry for international visitors, the Vietnam E-visa is an electronic visa that can be applied for online, without needing to visit an embassy or consulate. Available for citizens of over 80 countries, the E-visa is valid for a single-entry stay of up to 90 days.
The process to obtain an E-visa is simple:
– Travelers apply online through Vietnam’s official E-visa portal.
– After providing personal details, travel information, and a scanned passport copy, applicants pay a non-refundable fee of $25.
– Approval typically takes about 3 working days, and once granted, the E-visa is sent via email.
This method is ideal for tourists looking for convenience. All steps are completed from the comfort of your home, making the E-visa a hassle-free option for short-term travelers. However, the E-visa comes with limitations, such as its single-entry nature, which might not suit visitors planning multiple entries within 90 days.
Advantages of the E-Visa:
– Completely online application process.
– Fixed, transparent fees.
– No need to visit a Vietnamese embassy or consulate.
Disadvantages of the E-Visa:
– Limited to single-entry stays.
– Not available to all nationalities.
– Can only be used at selected ports of entry.
2. What you need to know about the traditional Vietnam Visa
While the E-visa has revolutionized the way travelers enter Vietnam, traditional visas still serve a significant purpose, especially for those with specific travel needs. Traditional visas are obtained directly through Vietnamese embassies or consulates, and they offer greater flexibility in terms of entry options, duration of stay, and visa types.
There are several types of traditional visas, including:
– Single-entry visas: Valid for one entry within a set period.
– Multiple-entry visas: Allows for multiple entries over several months.
– Business visas: For professionals and business travelers requiring longer stays.
The traditional visa process is more involved, requiring in-person or mail-in applications. Applicants must provide necessary documents, such as their passport and visa approval letter, and may face varying fees depending on the embassy or consulate.
For travelers planning longer trips or multiple entries, the traditional visa is often the better option. It provides greater flexibility in terms of duration, and you can choose from various entry types to match your travel itinerary.
Advantages of the Traditional Visa:
– Allows for multiple entries.
– More options for long-term stays.
– Suitable for business travelers and frequent visitors.
Disadvantages of the Traditional Visa:
– Requires more documentation.
– Can take longer to process.
– Higher and variable fees compared to the E-visa.
3. Key differences between Vietnam E-Visa and traditional visa
To decide which visa option suits your travel needs, it’s essential to understand the key differences between the E-visa and traditional visa.
Application process
The E-visa can be applied for entirely online
The application process is one of the most significant differences. The E-visa can be applied for entirely online through an official government portal, making it incredibly convenient for tourists who want to avoid visiting an embassy or consulate. In contrast, traditional visas require a more involved process, where travelers must either visit a Vietnamese embassy or send documents through the mail.
Cost
When it comes to cost, the E-visa has a fixed price of $25, regardless of nationality. This transparency makes it a great option for budget-conscious travelers. Traditional visas, on the other hand, can have varying fees depending on the visa type, length of stay, and the embassy issuing the visa. Some travelers may also have to pay for additional documentation, such as visa approval letters, which adds to the overall cost.
Processing time
The processing time for an E-visa is typically around 3-5 working days. However, traditional visas may take longer, often ranging between five to seven days or more depending on the specific consulate’s workload and the complexity of your application.
Entries allowed
Another major difference is the entry type. The E-visa is limited to single entries, meaning you can only enter Vietnam once within the visa’s validity. If you leave the country, you’ll need a new visa to re-enter. Traditional visas, however, offer both single-entry and multiple-entry options, making them ideal for travelers who plan to visit neighboring countries during their trip or for business people needing frequent access to Vietnam.
Duration of stay
In terms of the duration of stay, the E-visa allows for up to 90 days per visit, which is generally sufficient for most tourists. Traditional visas, however, offer more flexibility, with options ranging from one month to 12 months, depending on the type of visa requested.
Choosing between these two visa types comes down to your specific travel needs. The E-visa is a convenient, affordable solution for most tourists visiting Vietnam for short periods. However, if your trip requires multiple entries or an extended stay, the traditional visa will offer the flexibility you need.
In general, both the Vietnam E-visa and the traditional visa have their benefits and challenges, and choosing the right one for your travel plans depends on factors like duration, entry type, and convenience. For short-term tourists, the E-visa offers an unbeatable combination of affordability and ease, while the traditional visa is the go-to for those needing more flexibility and longer stays.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Phone: (+84)86 686 5000 – (+84)86 686 5000
Email: support@vietnamvisaexpress.com
Address: Do Son Ventures Office, 8th Floor, Pearl Plaza Building, 561A Dien Bien Phu Street, Ward 25, Binh Thanh District, Ho Chi Minh City.