Vietnam Visa Before you land
- Print your e-visa or approval letter, or keep the PDF on your phone. Some airlines ask for it at check-in.
- Check the entry date: you can't enter before the "valid from" date. See arriving early.
- Check you land at the airport named on your e-visa. Changed plans? Message me before you fly.
With an e-visa
- Follow the "Immigration" or "Arrival" signs. No visa counter needed.
- Queue at the foreigners' immigration lanes. At busy times this can take 30–60 minutes at Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
- Show your passport and e-visa. The officer checks your details and stamps your passport.
- Collect your luggage and go through customs.
With an approval letter (visa on arrival)
- Go to the landing visa counter before immigration (signs say "Landing Visa" or "Visa on Arrival").
- Hand in your passport, approval letter, the entry form and a passport photo.
- Pay the $25 stamping fee in US dollars cash (single entry).
- Wait for your name to be called, collect your passport with the visa stamped, then go through immigration.
More about visa on arrival in 2026.
Skip the queues
With airport fast track, a staff member meets you and takes you through the priority lane, and with an approval letter they handle the visa counter for you. From $29 per person.
FAQ
What do I need at Vietnam immigration with an e-visa?
Your passport and your e-visa, printed or on your phone. Go straight to the immigration lanes; there is no visa counter for e-visa holders.
Where do I get my visa on arrival at the airport?
At the landing visa counter before immigration. Hand in your passport, approval letter, entry form and photo, and pay the $25 stamping fee in cash.
How long does immigration take at Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City airport?
Usually 15–60 minutes, longer at peak times. Airport fast track takes you through the priority lane.
Do I need to print my Vietnam e-visa?
A printed copy is safest, but the PDF on your phone is usually accepted. Keep both if you can.
Related: Airport fast track · Visa on arrival · E-visa airports