Are you an Indian passport holder planning a trip to Vietnam? If yes, then one of the most crucial things that you need to take care of is obtaining a valid visa. Vietnam is a beautiful country with diverse landscapes, rich history, and culture. To explore this Southeast Asian gem, you need to apply for a visa in advance.

In this comprehensive guide, we will answer all your queries related to Indian passport visa for Vietnam. From who needs a visa, when to apply, how to apply, pros and cons, alternatives, step-by-step instructions, compare, tips, to the best ways to make the process smoother – we have got it all covered. So, let’s dive in.

Who Needs a Visa for Vietnam?

As an Indian passport holder, you need a valid visa to enter Vietnam. The only exception is if you are traveling to Phu Quoc Island for up to 30 days. In that case, you can enter and exit the island without a visa as long as you do not travel outside of it. However, if you plan to visit other parts of Vietnam or stay on the island for more than 30 days, you will need a visa.

What Are the Types of Visas Available for Indian Passport Holders?

There are two types of visas available for Indian passport holders – e-visa and embassy visa. Let’s take a closer look at each:

E-Visa

Vietnam introduced the e-visa system in 2017, making it easier for travelers to apply for a visa online. An e-visa is a single-entry visa that allows you to stay in Vietnam for up to 30 days. The application process is entirely online, and you can apply from anywhere in the world as long as you have a stable internet connection.

Pros:

• Convenient and hassle-free application process
• Saves time as you don’t have to visit the embassy
• The processing time is usually 3-5 working days, and you can get the visa via email

Cons:

• Not suitable for travelers who plan to stay in Vietnam for more than 30 days
• E-visa holders cannot extend their visa or change their immigration status
• Limited ports of entry and exit

Embassy Visa

An embassy visa is a traditional visa that you can obtain by visiting the Vietnamese embassy in India. This type of visa allows you to enter and exit Vietnam multiple times, and the duration of your stay depends on the visa type you apply for.

Pros:

• Suitable for travelers who plan to stay in Vietnam for an extended period
• You can choose from different visa types based on your travel plans
• Multiple ports of entry and exit

Cons:

• The application process can be time-consuming and requires you to visit the embassy in person
• Higher fees compared to e-visa
• Longer processing time – usually takes up to a week

When to Apply for a Vietnam Visa?

It’s recommended that you apply for a Vietnam visa at least two weeks before your planned departure date. Keep in mind that the processing time varies based on the type of visa you apply for. If you choose an e-visa, it can take up to five working days to process, while an embassy visa can take up to a week.

How to Apply for a Vietnam Visa?

Now that you know what type of visas are available let’s look at how you can apply.

Applying for an E-Visa

To apply for an e-visa, follow these steps:

1. Visit the official Vietnam e-visa website and fill out the application form.
2. Upload a scanned copy of your passport’s bio page and a passport-size photo.
3. Pay the visa fee using a credit or debit card.
4. Wait for the visa approval via email.
5. Print the e-visa and carry it with you to present at the immigration checkpoint in Vietnam.

Applying for an Embassy Visa

To apply for an embassy visa, follow these steps:

1. Visit the Vietnamese embassy or consulate in India.
2. Fill out the visa application form and provide a passport-size photo.
3. Submit your passport, along with the application fee.
4. Wait for the embassy to process your visa application.
5. Collect your passport with the visa stamp from the embassy or avail courier service if applicable.

Alternatives to Applying for a Vietnam Visa

If you don’t want to go through the hassle of obtaining a visa, there are a few alternatives available for Indian passport holders.

Visa Exemption Agreement

Vietnam has signed a mutual visa exemption agreement with some countries, including India, that allows citizens to enter without a visa for a certain period. Unfortunately, this agreement only applies to diplomatic and official passports, not ordinary ones.

Visa on Arrival

Visa on arrival is an option, but not available to Indian passport holders. It’s essential to note thatvisa on arrival is only available for air travelers, and you need to apply for it through a travel agency or an online service provider.

Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining a Vietnam Visa

Let’s break down the steps involved in obtaining a Vietnam visa:

1. Determine the type of visa you require based on your travel plans.
2. Choose the method of application – e-visa or embassy visa.
3. Fill out the application form and upload the required documents.
4. Pay the visa fee.
5. Wait for the visa approval and receive it via email (e-visa) or collect it from the embassy (embassy visa).
6. Print the visa and carry it with you to present at the immigration checkpoint in Vietnam.

Compare E-Visa vs. Embassy Visa

To help you make an informed decision, let’s compare the two types of visas available for Indian passport holders:

	E-Visa	Embassy Visa
Application	Online	In-person visit to the embassy
Duration	Single entry, up to 30 days	Multiple entry, up to 1 year
Processing Time	Usually 3-5 working days	Usually up to a week
Cost	Cheaper	More expensive than e-visa
Convenience	Hassle-free, no embassy visit	Requires a visit to the embassy
Ports of Entry	Limited	Multiple

Tips to Make the Visa Process Smoother

Here are some tips that can help you make the visa process smoother:

• Double-check the visa requirements and ensure that you have all the necessary documents before applying.
• Apply for the visa well in advance to avoid any delays or last-minute complications.
• If you are applying for an embassy visa, book an appointment with the embassy in advance to save time.
• Make sure your passport has a validity of at least six months from the date of entry into Vietnam.
• Carry a few passport-size photos with you as they may be required for visa applications or other official purposes.

The Best Way to Obtain a Vietnam Visa

The best way to obtain a Vietnam visa depends on your travel plans and preferences. If you are planning a short stay in Vietnam, an e-visa can be a convenient and affordable option. However, if you plan to stay for an extended period or require a multiple-entry visa, then an embassy visa would be more suitable.

Conclusion

Obtaining a Vietnam visa is a crucial aspect of planning your trip to this beautiful country. As an Indian passport holder, you have two types of visas available – e-visa and embassy visa. While the e-visa is convenient and hassle-free, an embassy visa offers more flexibility and is suitable for long-term stays. No matter which option you choose, ensure that you apply well in advance and have all the necessary documents to make the process smoother.

FAQs

1. Is it possible to extend my e-visa or embassy visa once I arrive in Vietnam?
   No, both e-visa and embassy visa cannot be extended or changed once you arrive in Vietnam.

2. Can I apply for a Vietnam visa upon arrival at the airport?
   Visa on arrival is not available for Indian passport holders. You need to apply for a visa in advance.

3. Do I need to provide proof of onward travel while applying for a Vietnam visa?
   It depends on the type of visa you apply for. An embassy visa requires you to provide proof of onward travel, while an e-visa does not.

4. How long does it take to get an e-visa for Vietnam?
   The processing time for an e-visa is usually between 3-5 working days.

5. Is it possible to apply for a Vietnam visa through a travel agency?
   Yes, you can apply for an embassy visa through a travel agency or an online service provider. However, it is important to ensure that the agency or service provider is legitimate and authorized by the Vietnamese government to process visa applications.

Thank you for reading our comprehensive guide on obtaining a Vietnam visa as an Indian passport holder. We hope that this article has provided you with all the information you need to plan your trip to Vietnam without any visa-related hassles. If you have any further questions or concerns, feel free to consult the FAQs section or seek assistance from the Vietnamese embassy or a trusted travel agency.

FAQs:

1. Is it safe to travel to Vietnam as an Indian passport holder?
   Vietnam is generally considered a safe country for tourists, including Indian passport holders. However, like any other destination, it is important to take basic safety precautions such as avoiding unsafe areas and being aware of your surroundings.

2. What is the best time to visit Vietnam?
   The best time to visit Vietnam depends on your preferences and the regions you plan to visit. Generally, the months from November to April are considered the peak season and offer pleasant weather conditions in most parts of the country.

3. Do I need to get any vaccinations before traveling to Vietnam?
   It is recommended to get vaccinated against common illnesses like hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and tetanus before traveling to Vietnam. Consult a healthcare professional or a travel clinic for detailed advice based on your specific health condition.

4. Are there any restrictions on the items I can bring into Vietnam?
   Yes, there are certain restrictions on items that you can bring into Vietnam, including drugs, weapons, and pornographic materials. Check the official website of the Vietnamese customs department for detailed information.

5. What is the currency used in Vietnam?
   The currency used in Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). It is advisable to exchange your currency at authorized exchange counters or banks for the best rates.