If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam in 2025, you might be asking:
Should I apply for a visa on arrival (VOA) or an e-Visa?
Although both options allow you to enter Vietnam legally, they are very different in terms of process, cost, and convenience.
Let’s break it down clearly so you can choose the right one for your travel needs.
🆚 Key Differences: Visa on Arrival vs E-Visa
Feature | Visa on Arrival (VOA) | E-Visa (Electronic Visa) |
---|---|---|
Application Method | Online pre-approval, then pay & get visa at airport | Online application, receive full visa via email |
Entry Points | Only international airports | Airports, land borders, sea ports |
Eligible Nationalities | Over 160 countries (via agent) | 80 countries (official list) |
Validity | 1–3 months (single or multiple entry) | 30 days (single entry only) |
Processing Time | 2–3 days for approval letter | 3–5 working days |
Documents Required | Passport, approval letter, photos, stamping fee | Passport scan, photo |
Stamping Fee at Airport | Yes ($25–50, cash only) | No (paid online upfront) |
Risk of Scam/Delay | Higher risk at airport queues | Low (official government site) |
✅ When to Choose E-Visa
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You’re eligible (check the official e-Visa list here)
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You enter Vietnam through land border or seaport
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You want a simpler, all-online process
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You’re staying 30 days or less
✅ When to Choose Visa on Arrival
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You need a multiple-entry visa
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You plan to stay more than 30 days
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Your country is not eligible for e-Visa
-
You apply through a trusted agent to handle paperwork
⚠️ Important Notes for 2025:
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E-visa is now accepted at most major ports of entry (airports, land borders, sea ports)
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VOA still requires pre-approval letter from a travel agent—you can’t just show up
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Overstaying or misinformation may lead to fines or denial of entry
💡 Our Recommendation
For most tourists in 2025, the e-Visa is the better option: faster, cheaper, and less hassle—if you’re eligible.
But if you need a longer or multiple-entry stay, VOA via a trusted agent may be worth it.
✈️ Apply Now — Hassle-Free
Don’t risk delays or rejections. Let our visa experts help you choose and apply for the right Vietnam visa.
👉 Apply for a Vietnam Visa Online