Do Indian passport holders need a visa for Vietnam?
As an Indian citizen, you will need a valid visa to enter Vietnam for any purpose, including tourism, business, or visiting family and friends. Vietnam has different types of visas available, each with its own requirements and application process. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the various options for Indian passport holders to obtain a Vietnamese visa, the fees involved, and some helpful travel tips to make your trip to Vietnam a smooth and enjoyable experience.
How to apply for a Vietnamese visa on an Indian passport
General information
To visit Vietnam, Indian passport holders are required to obtain a valid visa. There are several ways to apply for a Vietnamese visa, and the process can vary depending on your specific needs and travel plans.
The main options for Indian citizens to obtain a Vietnamese visa include:
- Applying for a visa through the Vietnam Embassy or Consulate in India
- Applying for an e-visa online
- Obtaining a visa upon arrival at a Vietnamese international airport
Each of these options has its own set of requirements, processing times, and fees, so it’s important to carefully consider which one best suits your travel plans and preferences.
Visa at the Vietnam Embassy or Consulate in India
To apply for a visa at the Vietnam Embassy or Consulate in India, you’ll need to follow these steps:
- Prepare the required documents:
- A scanned copy of your valid Indian passport with at least 6 months of validity remaining
- Your original passport
- Two passport-sized photographs
- Any other documents required, such as a letter of invitation or proof of accommodation
- Fill out and submit the visa application form.
- Pay the visa fee.
- Wait for your visa to be processed and either collect it in person or have it delivered to you.
The processing time for a visa application at the Vietnam Embassy or Consulate can take several business days, so it’s important to plan ahead and apply well in advance of your intended travel dates.
Apply for e-visa online
Indian residents can also apply for a Vietnam e-visa, which is a convenient option for those traveling to Vietnam for tourism, business, or transit purposes. The e-visa allows for stays of up to 30 days and is valid for single entry only.
Here’s how to apply for a Vietnam e-visa:
- Visit the official Vietnam immigration website (https://evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn) and fill out the online application form.
- Provide your personal information, passport details, and travel details.
- Upload a recent passport-sized photograph and a scanned copy of your valid Indian passport.
- Pay the e-visa fee, which is currently USD 25 (around INR 2,066).
- Wait for 3-5 working days to receive your e-visa via email.
- Print out the e-visa and present it to immigration officials upon arrival in Vietnam.
The e-visa option is a convenient and efficient way for Indian citizens to obtain a Vietnamese visa without having to visit the embassy or consulate in person.
How much is the visa fee for Indian passports?
The cost of a Vietnamese visa for Indian passport holders can vary depending on the type of visa and the method of application.
Vietnam e-Visa Fees
- Standard Fee: The cost for the e-Visa is generally $25 USD or $50 USD (non-refundable), regardless of your nationality. This fee applies for a single-entry or multiple-entries visa, valid for 90 days.
- Payment Method: You can pay the e-Visa fee online via credit card, debit card, or other available electronic payment methods through the official Vietnam e-Visa portal.
Processing Time
Processing time of about 4-6 working days. If you require expedited processing, some visa services may offer quicker processing, but these will come at an additional cost, which is handled through our visa services and not the official government portal.
Travel tips for Indian citizens visiting Vietnam
How to get there
Traveling from India to Vietnam is relatively straightforward, with several airlines offering direct and indirect flights between the two countries.
Some of the popular flight routes and estimated prices (per passenger, one-way) include:
| Flight routes | Airlines | Estimated prices |
|---|---|---|
| New Delhi to Ho Chi Minh City | VietJet Air (direct flight) | INR 21,785 |
| IndiGo Airlines | INR 8,432 | |
| Mumbai to Ho Chi Minh City | IndiGo Airlines | INR 10,189 and INR 12,649 |
| New Delhi to Hanoi | IndiGo Airlines | INR 11,243 |
| Vietnam Airlines | INR 30,218 | |
| Mumbai to Hanoi | VietJet Air | INR 19,676 |
| IndiGo Airlines | INR 12,298 |
It’s important to note that flight prices can fluctuate based on the season, airline, and booking timeframe, so it’s always a good idea to compare prices and book well in advance to get the best deals.
Weather information
Vietnam and India have different climates, with Vietnam generally experiencing a tropical monsoon climate and India having a more diverse range of climates, including tropical, subtropical, and temperate zones.
Climate:
- Vietnam has a tropical monsoon climate, with two distinct seasons: a rainy season from May to October and a dry season from November to April.
- India has a varied climate, with tropical, subtropical, and temperate zones depending on the region. The country experiences distinct seasons, including a monsoon season, winter, and summer.
Temperature:
- Vietnam’s average temperature ranges from 25°C to 28°C throughout the year.
- India’s average temperature varies widely, ranging from around 24°C to 30°C, depending on the location and time of year.
Rainfall:
- Vietnam experiences significant rainfall during the monsoon season, with high humidity levels.
- India’s rainfall patterns are more varied, with some regions receiving heavy monsoon rains and others remaining relatively dry.
Humidity:
- Vietnam generally has higher humidity levels, ranging from 75% to 85% on average.
- India’s humidity levels can vary more widely, from around 60% to 90%, depending on the region and time of year.
Knowing the weather patterns and climate differences between India and Vietnam can help you plan your trip more effectively, ensuring you pack the right clothing and are prepared for the conditions you’ll encounter during your stay.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Indian passport holders do require a valid visa to enter Vietnam, regardless of the purpose of their visit. The visa application process can be navigated through various options, including applying at the Vietnam Embassy or Consulate, obtaining an e-visa online, or applying for a visa upon arrival.
Each method has its own set of requirements, processing times, and fees, so it’s important to carefully consider which option best suits your travel plans and preferences. Additionally, understanding the weather and climate differences between India and Vietnam can help you plan a more comfortable and enjoyable trip.
By following the guidelines and tips outlined in this comprehensive guide, Indian citizens can successfully obtain a Vietnamese visa and embark on a memorable and enriching journey to this vibrant Southeast Asian destination.