Can I get a Vietnam visa on arrival without pre-approval?

No. Vietnam requires an approval letter obtained online before travel. True 'visa on arrival' without pre-approval doesn't exist for Vietnam.

Which airports accept visa on arrival?

Only Ho Chi Minh City (SGN), Hanoi (HAN), and Da Nang (DAD) airports. Not available at land borders or other Vietnamese airports.

What if my approval letter has other people's names?

This is normal. Agents group applications together on one letter to save costs. Just ensure your details are correct.

Do I need exact change for the stamping fee?

Yes, bring exact USD amounts. Immigration doesn't provide change and only accepts US dollars in good condition.

How long does airport processing take?

Usually 15-30 minutes at the visa counter, plus normal immigration queues. Budget 45-60 minutes total during busy periods.

How to Get a Vietnam Visa on Arrival

Vietnam visa on arrival requires pre-approval through an online agent, costs $25-50 for the approval letter plus $25 stamping fee at the airport, and takes 2-3 business days to process. You'll need your passport, photos, and cash for the stamping fee when you land.

Apply for pre-approval online. Choose a reputable visa agent (Vietnam-visa.com, vietnamvisapro.com, or myvietnamvisa.com work well). Submit your passport details, travel dates, and entry points. Single entry costs $15-25, multiple entry $25-50. Pay by credit card and expect 2-3 business days processing.
Receive your approval letter. Download the approval letter PDF from your email. Print 2 copies - one for immigration, one backup. Check all details match your passport exactly. The letter covers your group, so you might see other travelers' names listed.
Prepare required documents. Bring your passport (6+ months validity), printed approval letter, 2 passport photos (4x6cm), completed entry/exit form (download from agent or get at airport), and exact cash for stamping fee - $25 USD for single entry, $50 for multiple entry.
Complete the process at arrival. At Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, or Da Nang airport, go to the 'Visa on Arrival' counter first. Submit documents and pay stamping fee in USD cash only. Wait 15-30 minutes for processing. Collect your passport with visa stamp, then proceed to immigration.

Can I get a Vietnam visa on arrival without pre-approval?: No. Vietnam requires an approval letter obtained online before travel. True 'visa on arrival' without pre-approval doesn't exist for Vietnam.
Which airports accept visa on arrival?: Only Ho Chi Minh City (SGN), Hanoi (HAN), and Da Nang (DAD) airports. Not available at land borders or other Vietnamese airports.
What if my approval letter has other people's names?: This is normal. Agents group applications together on one letter to save costs. Just ensure your details are correct.
Do I need exact change for the stamping fee?: Yes, bring exact USD amounts. Immigration doesn't provide change and only accepts US dollars in good condition.
How long does airport processing take?: Usually 15-30 minutes at the visa counter, plus normal immigration queues. Budget 45-60 minutes total during busy periods.