Vietnam Visa for British (UK): A Detailed Application Guide

For British citizens, applying for a visa to travel or work in Vietnam can be quite straightforward if you are aware of the requirements and procedures. While UK citizens do not need a visa for short trips of up to 45 days, if you plan to stay longer or engage in specific activities, you will need to apply for a visa.

In this article, Your Vietnam Travel will provide you with detailed information about the types of visas, the application process, the necessary requirements, and important tips to prepare for your journey to Vietnam.

Do British citizens need a visa to enter Vietnam?

British citizens do not require a visa for short visits to Vietnam. UK passport holders can stay in the country for up to 45 days without a visa. However, if the stay exceeds this period or involves specific activities, a visa is necessary.

A visa is required for:

• Stays longer than 45 days
• Work or employment purposes
• Investment-related activities or projects
• Journalism or media work

For visits exceeding 45 days, British citizens have a couple of options:

• Leave Vietnam for a neighboring country and return to receive another 45-day visa exemption.
• Apply for a 90-day eVisa for extended stays.

UK citizens can stay in Vietnam for 45 days without a visa (Source: Collected)

Vietnam visa requirements for UK citizens

For UK citizens planning to visit Vietnam, obtaining a visa is a critical part of the process, especially for stays longer than 45 days. Here's what you need to know about the visa requirements and essential travel details.

Vietnam eVisa for British Citizens

British citizens who plan to stay in Vietnam for more than 45 days, whether for business or tourism, are required to obtain a visa. For these trips, the most efficient option is the Vietnam eVisa, which is processed quickly online. After application, travelers receive an electronic eVisa confirmation once it is approved.

• Single Entry eVisa: For stays beyond 45 days, travelers must apply for a single-entry eVisa. This visa allows one entry into Vietnam and is valid for the specified duration of stay. It's a simple and fast option to secure a visa for longer visits.
• Multiple Entry eVisa: For those requiring multiple entries within the same trip, a multiple-entry eVisa is available. This option also applies to trips longer than 45 days. It offers flexibility by allowing multiple entries without needing a new visa for each entry. Travelers should ensure their eVisa is valid for the entire duration of their trip, as it is necessary to board the flight. The eVisa is valid for entry at 13 airports, 16 land borders, and 13 seaports in Vietnam. Any discrepancies with the passport details or expired visas may prevent boarding.

Learn more: Vietnam Multiple Entry Visa: Step-by-Step Guide

Passport validity for entry

To enter Vietnam, UK citizens must ensure their passport is valid for at least six months after their arrival date. This requirement is mandatory to prevent any issues at immigration and ensure smooth entry into the country.

Additional visa requirements for UK citizens

Regardless of whether you're applying for a business, tourist, or other type of visa, the essential documentation includes:

• A valid British passport that must remain valid for a minimum of six months from your arrival date in Vietnam.
• A completed Vietnam visa application form, which includes personal details like your passport number and address.
• Two passport-sized photographs.
• Visa service fee, which must be submitted at the Vietnamese embassy. Please note that this service fee is non-refundable.

Make sure to place all visa documents, including your passport, visa application form, photographs, and any other necessary paperwork, into a single envelope when submitting your application. If submitting by mail, ensure that your address is correctly noted to receive your passport and valid visa at the correct location.

Vietnam visa requirements for UK citizens (Source: Collected)

How to apply for a Vietnam visa for British citizens

There are several visa options available, including the Vietnam e-visa, applying at a Vietnamese embassy, and visa on arrival. Each method has its own set of requirements and processing times. Here's a breakdown of the three most popular options.

Vietnam E-Visa

British citizens can easily obtain a Vietnam e-visa, making it the most convenient option for UK travelers. This online visa application process eliminates the need to visit an embassy, providing a fast and straightforward solution for obtaining a visa to Vietnam.

• Validity: The Vietnam e-visa is valid for stays of up to 90 days. It allows for either a single entry or multiple entries, depending on the type of visa selected.
• Processing Time and Fee: The e-visa processing time typically ranges from 3 to 7 business days. The application fee is $25 for a single entry visa and $50 for a multiple entry visa.
• How to Apply: British citizens can apply for a Vietnam e-visa directly through the official government website at evisa.gov.vn. Alternatively, applications can be submitted via a visa agency for added convenience.

Visa on arrival

British citizens are eligible for a visa on arrival (VOA) when traveling to Vietnam. However, it is important to note that you must first obtain a pre-approved visa letter before boarding your flight. This approval letter is required to be presented along with your passport upon arrival at a Vietnamese airport, where you will receive your visa stamp to enter the country.

• Validity: The Vietnam visa on arrival is valid for up to 30 days, and you can choose between a single entry or multiple entry visa, depending on your travel plans.
• Processing Time and Fee: The processing time for the approval letter is typically 3 to 5 business days. The fee for a single entry visa is $25, while a multiple entry visa costs $50. In addition to the visa fee, you will also need to pay for the visa approval letter service.
• How to Apply: To apply for a Vietnam visa on arrival, you need to go through a visa agency online. The process involves filling out the application form with essential details such as your full name, passport number, passport expiry date, date of birth, and intended entry and exit dates. After submitting the form, you will need to make the payment for the service fee.

Once you receive the visa approval letter, bring it along with your passport when you travel to Vietnam. Upon arrival at any of Vietnam’s international airports, you will present these documents to the immigration officer, who will then provide you with your visa stamp.

Applying for a visa at a Vietnamese embassy

British citizens can apply for a visa to Vietnam in person or by mail at the nearest Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate. Each embassy may have slightly different document requirements, so it’s essential to contact the embassy directly for the most up-to-date and specific information.

For those based in the United Kingdom, the Vietnamese Embassy in London is the primary point of contact for visa applications. The embassy provides services for both tourist and business visas, along with other visa types.

Vietnamese Embassy in London:

• Address: 12-14 Victoria Road, London W8 5Rd
• Tel: +44-2079371912 / 2075652214 / +44-2079375628
• Fax: +44-207565385
• Email: vanphong@vietnamembassy.org.uk
• Website: https://vnembassy-london.mofa.gov.vn

Embassy office hours may vary during Vietnamese and UK public holidays. It is recommended to contact the consular office in advance to confirm the opening times and ensure all necessary documents are prepared.

There are 3 ways for British citizens to apply for a Vietnam visa (Source: Collected)

Vietnam visa fees and processing time for British citizens

British citizens can choose from three main visa options: e-visa, embassy visa, and visa on arrival. Here's a quick overview of the fees and processing times for each.

E-Visa:

• Fee: $25 (single entry), $50 (multiple entry)
• Processing Time: 3-7 business days

Visa on Arrival:

• Approval Letter Fee: Varies by agency
• Stamping Fee: $25 (single entry), $50 (multiple entry)
• Processing Time: 3-5 business days for approval letter

Vietnamese Embassy Visa:

• Fee: Varies by visa type
• Processing Time: Several business days (varies by embassy)

Tips for a fast Vietnam visa application for British citizens

To expedite your Vietnam visa application and avoid unnecessary delays, follow these essential tips for a smoother process:

• Apply early: Submit your application at least two weeks before your planned departure to allow ample time for processing and to account for any unexpected issues.
• Review requirements carefully: Before applying, ensure that you understand and meet all the visa requirements. Failing to do so could lead to delays or rejection of your application.
• Verify information: Double-check all details in your application form, making sure they exactly match the information in your passport. This will help avoid errors that could delay processing.
• Submit complete documents: Follow the visa guidelines closely and submit all required documents. Incomplete applications are a common cause of delays.
• Pay the visa fee upfront: Ensure that you pay the required visa fee at the time of application. Applications without payment will not be processed.
• Track your application: If applying directly through the government website, monitor the status of your application regularly. Be prepared to submit additional documentation if requested.

FAQs about Vietnam visas for British citizens

How long can British citizens stay in Vietnam without a visa?

British citizens can stay in Vietnam for up to 45 days without needing a visa. This exemption applies to both tourism and business visits. However, if the stay exceeds 45 days or involves activities such as work, investment, or media work, a visa will be required.

What documents are required for a Vietnam visa for British citizens?

The required documents for a Vietnam visa for British citizens typically include:

• A valid UK passport with at least six months of validity remaining from the arrival date in Vietnam.
• A completed Vietnam visa application form with personal details such as your passport number, full name, and address.
• Two passport-sized photographs that meet the embassy's specifications.
• Payment for the visa processing fee, which is non-refundable.
• Additional documents may be required depending on the type of visa being applied for (tourist, business, or other).

Are multiple-entry Vietnam visas available for British citizens?

Yes, multiple-entry visas are available for British citizens. Both the Vietnam eVisa and visa on arrival offer a multiple-entry option. This allows travelers to enter and exit Vietnam multiple times within the visa's validity period without needing to apply for a new visa each time.

What are common mistakes British citizens should avoid when applying for a Vietnam visa?

To avoid delays or rejections, British citizens should ensure the following:

• Double-check all personal details in the application to ensure accuracy, especially passport information.
• Submit all required documents as per the application guidelines.
• Apply well in advance, ideally two weeks before the planned departure date, to allow sufficient processing time.
• Ensure the passport is valid for at least six months from the arrival date in Vietnam.
• Pay the visa fee upfront to avoid delays in processing.

Do British children need a visa to enter Vietnam?

Yes, British children traveling to Vietnam need a visa if they are staying for more than 45 days or if they are traveling for specific activities like work or media work. If their stay is within the 45-day visa exemption period, they do not require a visa. However, they must have a valid passport, and all visa application rules for minors should be followed.

Conclusion

British citizens visiting Vietnam should ensure they apply for the appropriate visa based on their stay's duration and purpose. Whether applying for an eVisa, visa on arrival, or through the embassy, it's crucial to prepare the necessary documents, verify all details, and apply early to avoid delays. Following these steps will ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to Vietnam.

For expert guidance and personalized assistance with your Vietnam travel plans and visa application, reach out to Your VietnamTravel today! Our dedicated team is ready to simplify the process, ensure all your travel requirements are met, and help you experience a seamless, hassle-free trip to Vietnam. Contact us now and let us take care of the details for you!