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.

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.