Vietnam Visa Requirements for New Zealand passport

New Zealand passport holders going on a trip to Vietnam must apply for a visa before departure, as visa-free entry is not available.

This process is essential for ensuring you can legally enter and stay in the country.

Vietnam offers several visa options for New Zealand citizens, including the e-Visa, so it's important to choose the right one.

Understanding the requirements in advance will help you prepare the necessary documents and ensure a smooth application process.

Vietnam Visa Types for New Zealand Citizens

Vietnam provides New Zealand passport holders with a variety of visa options to accommodate different travel purposes and lengths of stay.

Whether you're visiting for tourism, business, or other reasons, it's important to understand the appropriate visa category for your trip.

Each visa type comes with specific requirements and conditions, so careful preparation is essential before applying.

E-Visa

The Vietnam e-Visa is the most convenient option for tourists.

It allows you to stay in Vietnam for up to 90 days and can be applied for entirely online.

The Electronic Visa is valid for single or multiple entries, making it ideal for travelers who plan to visit neighboring countries and return to Vietnam.

Visa on Arrival

Visa on Arrival is another popular choice, particularly for those traveling by air.

With this option, you receive a pre-approval letter online, which you present upon arrival at one of Vietnam's international airports.

You'll complete the visa process at the airport immigration counter.

Note that this option is only available if you're flying into Vietnam and not entering by land or sea.

Regular Visa

If you prefer a traditional method or need a visa for purposes other than tourism (such as employment or long-term stays), you can apply for a visa through the Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate in New Zealand.

This option typically takes longer but may be necessary depending on your travel plans.

Vietnam Visa Requirements

Before you apply for a Vietnam e-Visa as a New Zealand national, make sure you have the following ready:

• Passport: Your document must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended date of entry into Vietnam.
• Face photo: A recent digital passport-sized photo with a white background.
• Travel details: Your intended entry and exit dates, as well as the port of entry.
• Email address: You'll receive your e-Visa approval via email, so ensure the address you provide is correct.
• Payment method: A valid credit or debit card to pay the visa fee.

For other visa types, additional documents may be required depending on the purpose of your visit.

For example, if you're pursuing business or work purposes, you may need a letter of invitation or sponsorship from a company or organization in Vietnam.

How to Apply for a Vietnam e-Visa

Getting a Vietnam e-Visa is quick and easy when following these steps to complete your application:

1. Fill out the application form: Complete the online form with your personal details, passport information, and travel plans. Double-check all information for accuracy, as errors can delay your application or result in rejection.
2. Upload required documents: Attach a scanned copy of your passport's biographical page and a recent passport photo, ensuring both files meet the size and format requirements.
3. Pay the visa fee: Use a credit or debit card to cover the e-Visa fee. Once payment is confirmed, you'll receive a reference code to track your application.

The Electronic Visa to Vietnam will be processed within 5 business days.

New Zealand passport holders will receive an email with the approved e-Visa. It's necessary to print a copy to present at immigration in Vietnam.

For a Regular Visa, applicants need to visit the Vietnamese Embassy to submit their application, while for a Visa on Arrival, they must obtain an approval letter and collect the visa upon arrival.

Processing Time

The standard processing time for a Vietnam e-Visa is 5 business days.

However, it's best to apply at least one week before your departure date to account for any potential delays or issues with your application.

If you're applying for a visa through the Vietnamese Embassy or opting for a Visa on Arrival, processing times may vary.

Regular Visas can take up to 2 weeks, so plan accordingly if you choose this route.

Entry Ports Supporting E-Visas in Vietnam

Vietnam allows travelers holding e-Visas to enter and exit only through one of the designated ports.

Airports:

• Cam Ranh Airport (Khanh Hoa)
• Can Tho Airport
• Cat Bi Airport (Hai Phong)
• Da Nang Airport
• Lien Khuong Airport (Lam Dong)
• Noi Bai Airport (Ha Noi)
• Phu Bai Airport
• Phu Quoc Airport
• Tân S?n Nh?t Airport (Ho Chi Minh City)
• Van Don Airport (Quang Ninh)

Land Border Gates:

• Bo Y
• Cau Treo
• Cha Lo
• Ha Tien
• Huu Nghi
• La Lay
• Lao Bao
• Lao Cai
• Moc Bai
• Mong Cai
• Na Meo
• Nam Can
• Song Tien
• Tay Trang
• Tinh Bien
• Xa Mat

Seaports:

• Cam Pha
• Chan May
• Da Nang
• Dung Quat
• Duong Dong
• Hai Phong
• Ho Chi Minh City
• Hon Gai
• Nghi Son
• Nha Trang
• Quy Nhon
• Vung Ang
• Vung Tau

Make sure to confirm the permitted entry port on your e-Visa approval and plan your travel accordingly. Always cross-check entries with updated government guidelines, as policies may change.

Frequently Asked Questions about a Vietnam Visa

• Can I extend my Vietnam visa?
  Yes, you can. You'll need to contact the Vietnam Immigration Department Office to extend its validity and pay any extra fees.
• What if my Vietnam visa application is rejected?
  If your application is rejected, you'll need to reapply and pay the fee again.
• Do I need a visa if I'm only transiting through Vietnam?
  Not if you stay in the international terminal at a Vietnamese airport. However, you will need one if your layover requires you to go through immigration.
• Can I apply for a Vietnam e-Visa if I have dual citizenship?
  Yes, but you must use the same passport for your e-Visa application that you'll use to enter Vietnam. This passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your entry date.

Conclusion

New Zealand passport holders must have a visa to travel to Vietnam. However, applying for an e-Visa is simple and can be done entirely online in just a few steps.

Start your application early to avoid any last-minute stress, and make sure all your documents are in order.

Once your e-Visa is approved, make a paper copy and ensure you enter Vietnam via the eligible port.