Planning a trip to Vietnam but unsure which visa type suits you best? Whether you choose to apply through the Vietnam Embassy or go for the more convenient Vietnam E-Visa, each option has its own benefits and drawbacks. In this article, we’ll compare both visa types—covering processing time, costs, convenience, and flexibility—so you can decide which one fits your travel plans perfectly.
Vietnam offers multiple visa types, but for short-term travelers, the two most common options are the Vietnam E-Visa and the Tourist Visa obtained through embassies or consulates.
By understanding these key differences, you’ll be better equipped to evaluate the pros and cons of each visa type and choose the one that best matches your travel needs.
What Is a Vietnam Visa (Tourist Visa) at the embassy ?
A Vietnam Embassy Visa (also called a Sticker Visa) is a traditional visa that you apply for in person or by mail at a Vietnamese embassy or consulate.
Once approved, the visa is physically stamped or affixed to your passport.
This type of visa is suitable for travelers who prefer multiple-entry access, longer stays (typically 30–90 days or more), or who are not eligible for the Vietnam E-Visa system. While the process takes more time and requires submitting your original passport, it offers greater flexibility in visa duration and entry types.
Key Facts: E-Visa processing is much faster, helping you avoid the long embassy wait times and streamline your travel plans with a quick, fully online application.
How To Apply Vietnam Embassy/Consulate Visa
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This option is ideal for travelers who prefer to have a stamped visa before arriving in Vietnam, or for those planning longer stays or multiple entries.
- Contact the nearest Vietnam Embassy or Consulate.
- Prepare and submit the required documents:
- Valid passport
- Visa application form
- Passport photo(s)
- Travel documents (e.g., flight itinerary)
- Pay the visa fee (amount may vary by embassy).
- Wait for processing, typically 3–7 business days.
- Collect your passport with the visa stamp or receive it by mail, depending on the embassy’s service.
Pros & Cons of Vietnam Embassy Visa
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Applying for a Vietnam Embassy Visa offers more flexibility compared to an E-Visa, but it also comes with extra steps and longer processing times. Below are the key advantages and disadvantages to consider before applying through an embassy or consulate.
Pros:
- Available for single or multiple entries
- Allows longer stays (30–90 days or more upon extension)
- Suitable for nationalities not eligible for E-Visa
- More flexible for business or frequent travelers
Cons:
- Requires visiting or mailing your passport to an embassy/consulate
- Longer processing time compared to online E-Visa
- Higher fees in some cases
- Less convenient for last-minute or urgent trips
Pros & Cons of a Vietnam E-Visa
The Vietnam E-Visa is designed for convenience—allowing travelers to apply entirely online without visiting an embassy. It’s the go-to option for short-term visitors who value speed and simplicity. However, it also comes with certain limitations that are important to keep in mind.
Pros:
- Quick and easy online application process
- No embassy visits or mailing passports required
- Faster approval time (usually 3–5 business days)
- Ideal for tourists and short-term stays (up to 30 days)
- Accepted at various international airports, land borders, and seaports
Cons:
- Single-entry only (cannot re-enter without reapplying)
- Limited to eligible countries
- Maximum stay of 30 days
- No extensions without exiting and reapplying
Vietnam Embassy Visa VS Vietnam E-Visa Which One Should You Choose?
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Choosing between a Vietnam Embassy Visa and a Vietnam E-Visa depends on your travel goals and timeline. If you need a fast and hassle-free option, the Vietnam E-Visa is your best choice — it’s fully online, approved within just a few days, and ideal for short-term travelers. Meanwhile, a Vietnam Embassy Visa is better suited for those who need longer stays, multiple entries, or come from countries not eligible for the E-Visa program.
For travelers who need a visa urgently, applying for a Vietnam E-Visa is highly recommended. You can complete the process online without visiting an embassy, saving valuable time and avoiding delays before your trip.
         Feature |                Vietnam Embassy Visa |                      E-Visa Vietnam |
Application Method | Embassy/consulate visit or mail | Fully online |
Processing Time | 5–10 business days | 3 business days (express options) |
Visa Fee | Varies by country & entry type | USD 25 state fee |
Entry Type | Single- or multiple-entry | Single-entry |
Maximum Stay | Up to 90 days (per entry) | 30 days |
Both the Vietnam Embassy Visa and the Vietnam E-Visa have their unique advantages. The Embassy Visa offers more flexibility in duration and multiple-entry options—perfect for long-term travelers or business visitors. On the other hand, the Vietnam E-Visa stands out for its speed, convenience, and simplicity, making it the top choice for most short-term tourists.
If you’re looking for a quick, stress-free, and fully online visa application, the Vietnam E-Visa is the way to go.
Apply for your Vietnam E-Visa today with our trusted visa support service — fast approval, secure process, and professional assistance every step of the way!
