Get updates on how to get a Vietnam visa approval letter in 2023 for a hassle-free visa application. This guide has everything you need for your Vietnam visa approval letter, including updates, requirements, processes, and fees. This will help ensure a smooth travel experience for you.
What is the Vietnam visa approval letter?
The Vietnam Visa approval letter is a document given by the Vietnam Immigration Department for travelers visiting Vietnam. The authorities grant the document holder official permission to board their flight to Vietnam. They can also get their visa stamped on their passport upon arrival at a Vietnam airport.
The Visa approval letter is not a visa, but you need it to obtain a visa on arrival for Vietnam.
What does a Vietnam visa approval letter look like?
A Vietnam visa approval letter includes:
- A statement allowing the holder(s) to enter Vietnam and obtain a visa stamp at the Vietnam airport.
- This letter allows certain people to enter Vietnam. It includes their name, passport number, birthdate, and nationality.
- The approved duration of stay in Vietnam.
- An electronic signature from the Vietnam Immigration Department (no longer the traditional red stamp).
Exemptions from Vietnam visa approval letter
If you’re planning to visit Vietnam, it’s important to understand when you might not need a visa approval letter. The following categories of travelers won’t require a visa approval letter and can enter Vietnam with the following documents:
- A valid Vietnam visa, such as an eVisa.
- A valid Permanent Residence card for Vietnam.
- A valid Vietnam temporary residence card.
- A valid Vietnam 5-year visa exemption certificate.
- A valid APEC Travel Card that includes Vietnam.
Additionally, those entering Vietnam under bilateral or unilateral visa exemption agreements are also exempt.
If you’re unsure about needing a visa approval letter for your Vietnam trip, feel free to contact us. For assistance, please reach out to us at +84 82 736 9120 or email us at vietnamvisalink@gmail.com
Eligibility for Vietnam visa approval letter
To obtain an approval letter for a Vietnam visa, you need to meet the following conditions:
Have sponsorship from a legally established and operational company in Vietnam, which can be any of the following:
- A foreign-invested company,
- A State-owned company,
- A representative office of a foreign trader,
- A tour company in Vietnam, and more.
You must not include it on the Vietnam Immigration Blacklist.
Types of Vietnam visa approval letter
Vietnam offers various types of visa approval letters tailored for different purposes, simplifying the selection process for your trip. These types include:
Purpose-Based Vietnam Visa Approval Letters:
- Tourist Visa Approval Letter
- Business Visa Approval Letter
- Family Visit Visa Approval Letter
Location-Based Vietnam Visa Approval Letters:
- Visa on Arrival Approval Letter
- Embassy Visa Approval Letter
How long is the validity of a Vietnam visa approval letter?
Vietnam visa approval letter lasts 10-90 days, depending on your purpose (tourism or business) and travel plans.
How much does a Vietnam visa approval letter cost?
Issuing the visa approval letter itself does not incur any charges. However, the sponsoring company in Vietnam will handle the expenses associated with:
- Preparing the necessary documents for applying for the visa approval letter.
- Completing the visa approval letter procedure.
As a visa approval letter holder, you must pay the visa stamping fee.
- The cost for a single-entry visa is US $25.
- The cost for a multiple entry visa with a validity of up to 90 days is US $50.
Documents needed for Vietnam visa approval letter
The required documents for obtaining a Vietnam visa approval letter can vary depending on the purpose of your visit. Below, we’ve outlined the specific documents you’ll need:
For Vietnam business visa approval letter:
- A certified copy of the Business Registration Certificate.
- The Vietnam entry application form, known as Form NA2.
- An introduction form with sample signature and seal of the sponsoring company (Form NA16).
- A copy of the foreigner’s passport.
- They may request any other documents.
For Vietnam tourist visa approval letter:
- A certified copy of the Business Registration Certificate.
- The application form for entry into Vietnam (Form NA2).
- An introduction form with sample signature and seal of the sponsoring company (Form NA16).
- A photocopy of the visitor’s passport.
- We require a passport copy of a family member with a valid residence permit in Vietnam.
- Any additional documents requested.
For Vietnam family visit visa approval letter:
- A certified copy of the Business Registration Certificate.
- The Vietnam entry application form, designated as Form NA2.
- An introduction form with sample signature and seal of the sponsoring company (Form NA16).
- A copy of the foreigner’s passport.
- A detailed itinerary for the visit in Vietnam.
- Any other documents requested.
How to obtain a Vietnam visa approval letter
Getting a Vietnam visa approval letter is easier now. You can do it online through your company’s account on the Ministry of Public Security’s Public Service Portal.
If you’re planning a vacation in Vietnam and don’t have a sponsor company, or if your sponsor company is unsure where to begin, feel free to get in touch with us for help.
Approval letter processing time
The processing time for your Vietnam visa approval letter depends on the type of visa and your urgency.
For a Vietnam tourist visa on arrival letter:
- The standard processing time typically ranges from 7 to 10 working days.
- For urgent situations, we can speed up the process. Choose between 3 to 5 working days or same-day processing, based on your needs.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Vietnam visa approval letter legitimate or a scam?
This is entirely legitimate. Vietnam Immigration Department gives visa approval letters through authorized travel agencies, not the one you’re using. With a valid approval letter, you can confidently have your visa stamped upon your arrival at the Vietnam airport.
Can I obtain a Vietnam visa on arrival without an approval letter?
Cambodia allows you to obtain visas at the border without prior planning. However, Vietnam only grants visas on arrival if you possess a valid visa approval letter. Without this letter, you won’t be able to board your flight to Vietnam, let alone get your visa stamped.
Can I get the Vietnam visa approval letter stamped at an embassy/consulate?
Certainly, you can. You can choose to get your visa stamped at a Vietnam embassy or consulate using the approval letter.
It’s essential to understand that the letter for getting a visa stamp at a Vietnam embassy or consulate is not the same as the one needed for obtaining a visa upon arrival at the Vietnam airport. You will receive a Reference Letter from the Vietnam Immigration Department. This letter will ask the Embassy/Consulate to stamp your visa. The visa will accompany the Reference Letter.
If you intend to obtain a Vietnam visa using this method, please inform us. We will then coordinate with the Vietnam Immigration Department to handle the required letter on your behalf.