E-Visa vs. Visa on Arrival: Which is Easier for Your Vietnam Trip? (2025 Guide)

Planning your Vietnam adventure is exciting, but navigating the visa options can sometimes feel confusing. Two of the most common choices for international travelers are the Vietnam E-Visa and the Visa on Arrival (VOA). Both will get you into the country, but they work very differently.

Which one is truly easier, faster, and more convenient for your trip in 2025? Let’s break down the pros and cons of each to help you make the best decision. At VietnamVisaEasy.com, we want your journey to start smoothly!

What is a Vietnam E-Visa? The Online Advantage

As we covered previously (What is E-visa?), the Vietnam E-Visa is a fully electronic visa obtained entirely online before you travel.

• How it works: Apply online, upload documents, pay the fee, and receive your approved visa (PDF) via email.

• Arrival: Print the e-visa, show it with your passport at the regular immigration counter, and you’re good to go. No extra steps at the airport.

• Key Benefit: Maximum convenience and minimal hassle upon arrival.

What is Visa on Arrival (VOA)? The Airport Process

Visa on Arrival involves getting your visa stamped into your passport after you land at one of Vietnam’s international airports. Crucially, you still need to apply online beforehand for an “Approval Letter” from a sponsoring agency.

• How it works:

  1. Apply online for a VOA Approval Letter (usually through a visa agent).

  2. Receive the letter via email and print it.

  3. Upon arrival in Vietnam, go to the dedicated “Visa on Arrival” counter.

  4. Submit your passport, approval letter, completed entry/exit form, and passport photos.

  5. Pay the stamping fee in cash (USD or VND).

  6. Wait for the visa sticker to be placed in your passport.

  7. Proceed to the regular immigration counter.

• Key Consideration: Requires extra steps and waiting time at the airport.

E-Visa vs. VOA: Head-to-Head Comparison

Let’s compare them based on what matters most to travelers:

$25-$

When Should You Choose E-Visa?

The E-Visa is generally the easier and recommended option if:

• ✅ Your nationality is on the eligible list. 

• ✅ You want the simplest, fastest arrival process with no airport queues or extra fees.

• ✅ You are entering Vietnam via an airport, land border, or seaport that accepts e-visas. 

• ✅ You prefer paying everything online beforehand.

• ✅ You need a visa for up to 90 days (single or multiple entry).

When Might Visa on Arrival Be Necessary?

VOA might be your only option (or a consideration) if:

• ❌ Your nationality is not eligible for the e-visa.

• 🛫 You are only arriving by air at a major international airport (Hanoi, HCMC, Da Nang, etc.).

• ⏳ You need a visa type not currently covered by the e-visa system (though this is becoming rarer with the 90-day multiple entry e-visa).

• 🏃 You forgot to apply for an e-visa and need an approval letter extremely quickly (though urgent e-visa services are often just as fast now).

Remember: Even with VOA, you must arrange the approval letter online before flying. You cannot simply show up and get a visa.

E-Visa is the Winner for Ease and Convenience

For the vast majority of travelers in 2025, the Vietnam E-Visa is the clear winner when it comes to ease, speed, and convenience. It eliminates airport stress, allows entry through more ports, and simplifies the entire process. Why wait in line when you can walk straight through?

Make your Vietnam entry effortless with an E-Visa!

Apply through VietnamVisaEasy.com for a streamlined process, expert review, and options for urgent approval if needed.

👉 Apply for Your Hassle-Free Vietnam E-Visa Today!

Still unsure? Read our Vietnam E-Visa FAQ. Let us help you choose the easy way!