In this guide, I will explain everything you need to know about Vietnam visa for Filipinos; types, requirements, cost, how to apply, and extra travel tips.
As a Filipino traveller, Vietnam is honestly one of my favourite destinations in the world. Not only it’s so close to the Philippines, it’s also super affordable, more budget-friendly than the Philippines, and it offers a very unique experience.
I have been to Vietnam so many times since I started travelling in 2015. It’s even the place I stayed in during the pandemic, which means I was there for nearly two years. It’s the #1 place I recommend to my Filipino friends and readers who are looking for a fun first destination outside the country.
BASIC INFORMATION ON VIETNAM VISA
Before we get into more details, there are a few things you should be familiar with about the Vietnam visa such as how easy it is, the cost, processing time, and more. Here are some tips:
Visa difficulty
Getting a Vietnam visa is very easy for Philippines passport holders. For one, there’s already a visa-free scheme that Vietnam offers to Filipino travellers which allows us to stay for up to 21 days.
If you plan to stay longer, you can apply for an evisa for a fee which has a stay validity of 30 days and 90 days. We have a complete list of visa-free countries for Filipino passport holders.
How much does a Vietnam visa cost
If you’re availing the visa-free, it doesn’t cost anything. You will receive the visa stamp when you land and enter Vietnam.
On the other hand, for those looking at evisa, the price varies. The cost depends if you’re looking at a single entry ($25) or multiple entries ($50). Then, another fee if you want a 30-day stay or 90-day stay.
One thing to remember, you can only pay with a bank card for a Vietnam visa, then cash for the sticker.
How long does a Vietnam visa take to process
The free visa doesn’t take any time to process. When you arrive in Vietnam, you will be asked a few questions at the immigration then you will get the stamp on your passport.
For evisa, you must apply this as soon as you know the dates you plan to be in Vietnam. I highly recommend that you apply no later than two weeks before you land.
The visa process usually takes 5-7 business days, so leaving this at the last minute is not a good idea.
Not to mention when you’re visiting during the major local holiday, which is the TET holiday (Lunar New Year). This public holiday doesn’t have a specific date, but it’s usually between the end of January and the beginning of March.
During TET, the offices, even public offices are not operating. This means that if you apply for an evisa during this time, it won’t be processed until after TET.
You should also lodge your evisa application in advance, at least three weeks before TET.
Where to apply for a Vietnam visa
For the Vietnam evisa, you can only apply for it online. iVisa is my favourite site for a one-stop shop for any visa services I need.
On the other hand, the Vietnamese government also has a website where you can send your application.
My problem with it is that their site is not super easy to use, and honestly not very eye-appealing. I get lots of questions from readers about whether the site is official because it has a spa-like atmosphere.
How soon can I apply for a Vietnam visa
At least 2 weeks or 14 working days before your trip. If you plan to visit during the peak season, which is December and the TET Holiday (Lunar New Year), it’s important to lodge your application at least 3 weeks in advance.
The offices in Vietnam are closed for almost 2 weeks during TET, so leaving your visa application too late will cause trouble in your travel plan.
REQUIREMENTS FOR A VIETNAM VISA
If you’re planning to get a longer visa and not through the visa-free program (which allows you to stay for 21 days in Vietnam with a passport from the Philippines, you can apply for a Vietnam visa for Filipinos online.
Here are the digital documents to prepare:
- Passport (at least 6 months validity upon departure FROM Vietnam)
- Passport photo
- Credit card for payment
- Hotel name and address
- Point of entry an exit (what airport or land border)
STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE ON APPLYING FOR A VIETNAM VISA FOR FILIPINOS
- Once you decide which site to send in your application, fill out the information needed, and upload your photo.
- Pay the fee.
- Wait for an email confirmation that your application has been submitted.
- You will receive another email saying that your visa is approved and to print the document attached.
- Present this document to the immigration at your point of entry to Vietnam.
- You will most likely pay for a vis sticker (different from the visa fee online) if you applied for at least one month visa.
- You can pay for this fee with cash only (major currencies, Philippines Pesos not accepted).
FAQ
- Can I extend my visa (not the free visa)?
- Not, not anymore. However, a visa run is still possible.
- Can I pay for the visa sticker with a credit card?
- No, cash only.
- Can I apply for a Vietnam visa on the day of my flight
- No, that will be too late.
- Is it possible to apply for a visa on arrival in Vietnam?
- Yes, but only open to specific nationalities. Filipinos cannot, but you can receive visa-free upon arrival.
FINAL TIPS ON VIETNAM VISA FOR FILIPINOS
Vietnam is easily my favourite destination as a Philippines passport holder. It’s easy and affordable, and I can enjoy visa-free for 21 days. Not to mention its tasty cuisine, a budget-friendly travel destination, and local being super friendly.
Apply for a Vietnam visa for Filipinos is straightforward, making in a great place to go if you’re looking to travel internationally, not too far from the Philippines, affordable, and want to collect visa stamps to make your passport and travel history strong.