Vietnam is an incredible and diverse country, from the limestone rocks of Ninh Binh to the historic city of Ho Chi Minh. Vietnam offers something for everyone, whether you spending 2 weeks in Vietnam or spending months travelling, but do you need a Visa for Vietnam from the UK?
This post will break down all you need to know regarding Visas for travelling to Vietnam and show you the most simple way to obtain one.
Do you need a Visa for Vietnam when arriving from the UK?
The answer varies depending on how long you intend to visit Vietnam from the UK.
- If a United Kingdom citizen’s length of stay in Vietnam is LESS THAN 15 days, they do not need a visa to travel.
- If a United Kingdom citizen’s length of stay in Vietnam is LONGER THAN 15 days, a Vietnam Visa is required.
In either case, the traveller’s passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Vietnam.
If you are visiting Vietnam for less than 15 days then you need to be able to show proof of your exit out of Vietnam. For example, your booked flight confirmation for departure.
Once you have established that you will need a Visa, there are different types depending on the type of trip you have planned.
All about Vietnam Visas for UK Travellers
If you are planning to visit Vietnam as a tourist (therefore, not intending to work) you will need to apply for an E-Visa or a Visa on Arrival.
The type of Visa you apply for will depend on the following:
- How long you intend to visit Vietnam for
- Whether you plan to stay in Vietnam the whole time vs entering and exiting multiple times
- How fast you need to authorisation of entry approved
Do I need an E-Visa to visit Vietnam from the UK?
An E-Visa is appropriate if you plan to visit Vietnam for between 15-30 days and only intend to stay in Vietnam during this time. With this type of Visa, you are not allowed to cross the border into another country and then re-enter.
This type is most likely suitable for holidaymakers or those with a set backpacking route and have a confirmed exit date.
If you are planning to stay for more than 30 days (up to 90 days in total) or you plan to cross the border during your stay you will need to apply for a Visa on arrival.
How long does it take for get a Vietnamese Visa?
The process is relatively straight forward if you ensure you give all of the correct information, the quickest and easiest way of doing this is through a trusted site such as Byevisa. Their current service takes 5 business days, however, they do have a more rapid service available soon.
What documents are needed to apply for a Vietnam Visa from the UK?
E-Visa also known as an Electronic Visa
- The traveller’s passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Vietnam
- A scan of the main Passport pages
- The authorisation will be sent via E-mail however, you will also need to bring a printed version of this with you when travelling
Visa on Arrival
- The traveller’s passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Vietnam
- A Vietnam Visa Approval Letter
- 2 Passport Photos
What do I need to take with me to the airport?
All documentation will be required when you reach immigration at your port of entry into Vietnam.
For the E-Visa you will need to show proof that it has been authorised. You will receive this via email, however, it is essential you carry a printed version of this on you as well. You will not gain entry without showing a valid Visa.
If you are obtaining a Visa On Arrival for Vietnam from the UK, you will need to ensure you have a Vietnam Visa Approval letter as well as two passport photos.
It is also worth noting that a Visa on Arrival is only available when arriving by air and only from the following international airports:
- Cam Ranh (Nha Trang)
- Cat Bi (Hai Phong)
- Danang (Da Nang)
- Noi Bai (Hanoi)
- Tan Son Nhat (Ho Chi Minh City)
How much does a UK to Vietnam Visa cost?
The current fee for a E-Visa for Uk residents is $25.00 ( + processing fee when using an authorised company). A Visa on Arrival roughly costs $70.00 (+ processing fee for the approval letter)
What is the benefit of using an authorised Visa company?
The main benefit of using a company, such as Byevisa, when applying for a foreign visa is the lack of stress. These companies are especially useful for newer travellers or those not as confident when visiting further afield destinations.
The company will ensure you have given all the correct information and that your Visa is 100% approved before leaving the UK. You will quickly have access to whether your Visa has been approved or rejected as well as when it is valid to and from.
Essentially, it takes away unnecessary stress and allows you to get on with the fun stuff, like planning your epic trip around Vietnam.
Click here for more useful information to help you plan your trip to Vietnam