Planning a trip to Vietnam but not eligible for the e-visa? Don’t worry — the Vietnam invitation letter is your fast-track ticket to this captivating country! Whether you’re traveling for business, visiting family, or just eager to explore vibrant street food and majestic landscapes, this guide will show you exactly how to get your Vietnam invitation letter quickly and correctly. Let’s dive into the essential steps, expert advice, and practical tips every traveler should know!
The Vietnam invitation letter (also referred to as a “visa approval letter”, “pre-approval letter”, or officially the NA2 Form) is a government-issued document by the Vietnam Immigration Department, allowing foreign nationals to apply for and receive a visa either on arrival or at a Vietnamese embassy.
This document is not optional for many travelers—it’s essential for boarding your flight and having your Vietnam visa stamped at the airport or embassy.
The Vietnam invitation letter must be requested by:
The standard processing time is 5–7 working days, but urgent service is available within 1–3 days. You'll receive the Vietnam visa approval letter via email, and you must print and present it when boarding your flight. This letter is especially important for travelers applying for a visa on arrival, as immigration authorities require this pre-approval to grant you entry once you land.
You may be wondering, "Do I even need one?" Let’s find out! Here's a breakdown of who must have a Vietnam invitation letter:
In these cases, you must have a sponsoring company or organization in Vietnam issue the letter and submit a full dossier to the Vietnam Immigration Department.
Some embassies may ask for additional documentation such as a hotel reservation, return flight tickets, and proof of relationship if you’re visiting family. Be ready!
This is the fastest and most convenient method for most travelers, especially those applying for a Vietnam Visa from outside the country.
Step 1: Choose a licensed, reputable visa service provider. Make sure they are registered and recognized by the Vietnam Immigration Department. You can cross-check this through reliable sources or via partners of VFS Global Vietnam Visa.
Step 2: Submit all required documentation, including:
Step 3: Pay the agency's service fee. For tourist or business visas, this fee typically ranges between 18 to 45 USD, depending on the type of visa and whether you request expedited processing.
Step 4: Wait for your Vietnam visa approval letter to be emailed to you. Standard processing time is 3 to 5 working days, but urgent service is available in 1 to 2 working days.
Step 5: Print the invitation letter and carry it with your other travel documents. You must present this letter at the airport in order to receive your visa on arrival.
For those entering Vietnam for work, business partnerships, family visits, or study programs, your sponsor in Vietnam can apply on your behalf.
Step 1: The sponsor completes the NA2 application form and collects the required documentation:
Step 2: Submit the full application at the appropriate office of the Vietnam Immigration Department, based on region:
Step 3: Wait for processing. If the documents are valid, the Vietnam invitation letter will be issued within 5 to 7 working days.
Step 4: The letter is sent to the foreigner, who can then apply for a Vietnam Visa at a Vietnamese embassy abroad or present the letter at an international airport to receive the visa stamped.
To successfully apply for a Vietnam invitation letter, ensure you prepare the following:
Missing even one document can delay your processing or lead to rejection. Accuracy is key.
Here is a breakdown of visa fees and service charges based on the most common visa types:
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Always verify final costs with your agency, especially if you plan to apply through a Vietnamese embassy or extend your visa later.
You can receive your Vietnam Visa in one of the following ways:
At International Airports in Vietnam
Present your printed Vietnam invitation letter, passport, visa application form, and two photos at one of the major airports:
At a Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate Abroad
This is the safer option if you are not flying directly into Vietnam or have previously encountered issues such as overstaying visa Vietnam.
Each option has its benefits depending on your travel route and visa type.
Avoid the most frequent errors that can cost you time and money:
Getting a Vietnam invitation letter might seem overwhelming at first, but with the right guidance and preparation, it’s a smooth and simple process. Whether you're using a trusted agency or working with a Vietnamese sponsor, this letter is your key to unlocking the incredible journey that awaits. Download our checklist, gather your documents, and get ready to enter Vietnam with confidence and ease!