April 8, 2025
Vietnam Visa

[Updated 2025] Vietnam Visa on Arrival vs. E-Visa: Which One is Better?

Planning a trip or business visit to Vietnam in 2025? 🌏
You’re probably wondering: “Should I choose a Visa on Arrival or an E-Visa?” These are the two most popular options for international travelers – but they differ in terms of process, convenience, and entry points.

In this guide, we’ll compare Vietnam Visa on Arrival vs. E-Visa, highlighting updated details on validity, ease of entry, and how to apply. Whether you’re flying in for a short getaway or a long-term business trip, this article will help you make the best choice.

🛬 What is Vietnam Visa on Arrival (VOA)?

Visa on Arrival (VOA) is a long-standing and convenient option for travelers who arrive in Vietnam by air.

  • Tourist Visa: 15 or 30 days (Single or Multiple Entry)
  • Business Visa: 30 or 90 days (Single or Multiple Entry)
  • Entry Points: Only available at Vietnam’s international airports
  • Process: Apply online for a pre-approval letter → bring it to the airport → queue at the VOA counter → pay the stamping fee and get your visa.

❗Drawbacks of VOA:

  • You must wait in line at the stamping counter, which can be long during peak travel times.
  • Not valid for land borders or seaports.

🌐 What is Vietnam E-Visa?

The Vietnam E-Visa is a fully online solution that is quickly becoming the most preferred visa type for travelers.

  • Available to most nationalities (same as VOA)
  • Visa Types:
    • Tourist & Business
    • 30 or 90 days, Single or Multiple Entry
  • Entry Points: Valid at all airports, land borders, and seaports
  • Application Process: Fill out the form online, pay once, and receive your visa via email.
  • No queuing at the airport – go straight to immigration!

Why travelers love E-Visa in 2025:

  • No lines or paperwork at arrival
  • More flexibility with entry points
  • Simple one-time payment process
  • Great for both short trips and longer business visits

⚖️ Visa on Arrival vs. E-Visa – A Quick Comparison

FeatureVisa on Arrival (VOA)E-Visa
Who can applyMost nationalitiesMost nationalities
Tourist visa duration15 or 30 days30 or 90 days
Business visa duration30 or 90 days30 or 90 days
Single/Multiple entryBothBoth
Entry pointsAirports onlyAirports, land borders, seaports
Airport processingQueue at VOA stamping counterDirect to immigration
Processing time3–5 working days (urgent available)3–5 working days (urgent available)
PaymentSplit: pay online for letter + stamping fee at airportOne-time online payment, no fee on arrival

💰 Visa Fees: Is There a Big Difference?

Not really! Both visa types are similarly priced, but the payment structure is different.

🔹 Visa on Arrival

  • You pay online first to receive the approval letter
  • Then, you pay a stamping fee at the airport (usually in USD)

🔹 E-Visa

  • You pay once online
  • Your E-Visa is sent directly to your email – just print and present it at immigration

🎯 Pro tip: If you hate queues and want an all-in-one process, E-Visa is the way to go


⚡ Need a Rush Visa? We’ve Got You!

Whether you’re applying for a VOA or an E-Visa, our service offers express processing:

  • Standard: 3–5 working days
  • Urgent: 1–2 working days
  • ⚡⚡ Super Rush: as fast as 2 working hours

📩 Email: info@vietnam-evisa.com
📲 Chat via WhatsApp or WeChat – Scan the QR code below to connect instantly:

🧾 Or apply directly online here: https://www.vietnam-evisa.com/apply


❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I get a Vietnam visa at the airport without applying in advance?

No. For VOA, you must get a pre-approval letter online before flying. Airlines won’t let you board without it.

2. How long does visa processing take?

  • Standard: 3–5 working days
  • Urgent: 1–2 working days
  • Super Rush: as fast as 2 working hours

3. Is E-Visa valid at land borders and sea ports?

Yes! E-Visa is accepted at all international airports, land crossings, and sea ports in Vietnam.

4. Can I apply for a multiple-entry E-Visa?

Yes! In 2025, both 30-day and 90-day E-Visas are available for single or multiple entries.

5. Which visa is better if I’m short on time?

Both types support urgent processing, but E-Visa offers a smoother arrival experience, especially at busy airports.


🏁 Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

SituationBest Option
You want to avoid airport queuesE-Visa
You’re entering Vietnam by land or seaE-Visa
You’re used to VOA and flying by airVOA is still fine
You need a visa urgentlyBoth – contact us!

✨ If you want the most hassle-free experience, E-Visa wins in 2025.


✈️ Apply Today – Stress-Free!

Let us help make your Vietnam trip smooth and unforgettable:
🔗 Apply now: https://www.vietnam-evisa.com/apply
📧 Email us: info@vietnam-evisa.com

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