How to Get a Vietnam Business Visa Quickly
The fastest way to get a Vietnam business visa is through the e-visa system, which takes 3 business days and costs $25. For same-day processing, use the visa on arrival option if you're flying into major airports, or apply at a Vietnamese consulate in person with expedited service.
- Choose your application method. E-visa (3 business days, $25) is fastest for most travelers. Visa on arrival (same day, $25 plus $25 stamping fee) works only if flying into Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or Da Nang airports. Embassy/consulate (1-5 days, $70-120) offers same-day service in major cities.
- Gather required documents. You need: passport valid for 6+ months, digital passport photo, business invitation letter from Vietnamese company (with company registration certificate), or conference registration if attending events. Hotel booking and return flight ticket as supporting documents.
- Apply for e-visa online. Go to evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn (official site only). Fill application, upload documents, pay $25 by card. Processing takes exactly 3 business days. Print the approved e-visa - immigration won't accept mobile versions.
- Alternative: Get approval letter for visa on arrival. Use reputable agencies like Vietnam Visa Choice or Vietnam-Visa.org. Pay $25 for approval letter (2 business days), then $25 stamping fee at airport. Faster agencies offer 4-hour rush service for $45 extra.
- Arrive and collect your visa. With e-visa, proceed directly to immigration. With visa on arrival, go to 'Landing Visa' counter first, pay stamping fee, get visa pasted in passport, then proceed to immigration queue.
- Can I convert a tourist visa to business visa in Vietnam?
- No, you cannot convert visa types inside Vietnam. You must exit the country and apply for a business visa from outside, or apply for a new business visa before your tourist visa expires.
- What if my business invitation letter is rejected?
- Common rejection reasons: company not properly registered, invitation letter missing required details, or passport name mismatch. Get a corrected letter and reapply - there's no appeal process.
- How long can I stay on a business visa?
- Single-entry business visas allow 30 days. Multiple-entry versions allow 30 days per entry over 3-month validity period. Extensions require applying through Vietnamese immigration office.
- Can I use visa on arrival at land borders?
- No, visa on arrival only works at international airports. Land border crossings require e-visa or embassy-issued visa obtained in advance.