Vietnam Visa on Arrival for Indians: Truth, Process & Mistakes

Vietnam Visa on Arrival for Indians: Truth, Process & Mistakes

Vietnam is rapidly becoming a favourite destination for Indian travellers, but one topic continues to create confusion, panic, and even denied boarding — Vietnam Visa on Arrival. Apply Here: Vietnam Visa on Arrival- Invitation Letter

Many travellers believe they can simply land in Vietnam and get a visa at the airport. Others think Visa on Arrival is risky or unofficial. Some even board flights with incorrect or incomplete documents, only to face serious trouble at the airport.

The truth lies somewhere in between.

Vietnam Visa on Arrival is a legal and valid immigration process, but it works only when travellers understand how it functions, when it should be used, and when it should be avoided. Vietnam Visa on Arrival- Invitation Letter

What Is Vietnam Visa on Arrival?

Vietnam Visa on Arrival is a pre-approved visa system, not an on-the-spot visa.

Indian passport holders must obtain an official approval letter before travelling. This letter allows the traveller to collect the visa stamp after landing in Vietnam.

Without this approval letter, airlines may refuse boarding, and immigration authorities will not issue a visa. Apply Here: Vietnam Visa on Arrival- Invitation Letter

Vietnam Visa Approval Letter Explained

The approval letter is an official document issued by Vietnamese immigration authorities through authorised travel agencies.

Why the Approval Letter Is Mandatory

• It confirms immigration pre-approval

• It allows visa stamping at arrival airports

• It is checked before boarding the flight

Travellers cannot apply for Visa on Arrival directly at the airport without this letter.

Apply Here: Vietnam Visa on Arrival- Invitation Letter 

Documents Required for Vietnam Visa on Arrival

Indian travellers need to submit basic but accurate information to obtain the approval letter.

Required Details

• Passport scan (valid for at least six months)

• Travel dates and entry airport

• Passport personal details

• Visa type (single or multiple entry)

Any mismatch between submitted details and passport information can lead to rejection.

Validity and Entry Restrictions

Vietnam Visa on Arrival comes with clear limitations.

Important Rules

• Valid for short stays, usually up to 30 days

• Allowed only for air entry

• Not valid for land or sea borders

Travellers entering Vietnam by road or cruise must use alternative visa options.

What Happens at the Vietnam Airport?

Once travellers land in Vietnam, the visa process continues at the airport.

Step-by-Step Airport Process

• Proceed to the Visa on Arrival counter

• Submit passport, approval letter, and photos

• Pay the visa stamping fee

• Receive visa stamp in passport

• Clear immigration

The process is straightforward when documents are complete.

Vietnam Visa Fees: What You Need to Pay

There are two separate payments involved.

Fee Breakdown

• Before travel: Service fee paid online to obtain the approval letter

• At the airport: Visa stamping fee, usually payable in USD cash

Travellers should carry exact cash to avoid delays.

Common Mistakes Indian Travellers Make

Many problems arise due to misunderstandings about Visa on Arrival.

Mistakes to Avoid

• Flying without an approval letter

• Assuming visa is issued automatically on arrival

• Carrying no cash or wrong currency

• Using Visa on Arrival for land border entry

These mistakes often result in denied boarding or immigration refusal.

Expert Tips for First-Time Vietnam Travellers

• Always secure the approval letter before booking flights

• Carry passport-size photos and USD cash

• If unsure, choose Vietnam e-Visa instead of Visa on Arrival

Planning correctly ensures a smooth entry experience.

Why You Should Watch the Full Video

This topic is best understood visually and with real-world insights.

In the video, a Vietnam-based visa expert joins directly from Vietnam to explain the actual ground reality — including airport procedures, common traveller errors, and practical advice rarely found online.

Watching this video before flying to Vietnam can save you from stress, delays, and financial loss.  Apply Here: Vietnam Visa on Arrival- Invitation Letter