Planning a trip to Vietnam and not sure whether to apply for an e-Visa or go the traditional visa route? You’re not alone. With so many options out there, it can be tricky to know which type of visa best fits your travel plans.
As someone who has traveled to Vietnam more than once, I’ve used both types—and let me tell you, each has its own pros and cons. In this blog, I’ll break down the key differences between the Vietnam e-Visa and the traditional visa, so you can decide what’s right for your journey.
🖥️ What is a Vietnam e-Visa?
- A single-entry visa available for citizens of over 80 countries
- Valid for up to 90 days
- Entirely processed online, with no need to visit an embassy
- Delivered as a PDF file via email
Perfect for short stays and independent travelers who want to handle things quickly and digitally.
🏢 What is a Traditional Vietnam Visa?
- Issued through Vietnamese embassies or consulates, or via Visa on Arrival (VOA)
- Can be single or multiple entry
- Valid for longer durations, depending on visa type
- Requires physical paperwork, and sometimes an in-person visit
Best for travelers who need multiple entries, plan to stay longer, or have specific travel needs.
✅ Vietnam e-Visa: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- ✅ 100% online process — no embassy visits
- ✅ Fast approval (typically 3 business days)
- ✅ Simple and affordable (about $25 USD)
- ✅ Ideal for tourist or short business trips
- ✅ No need for visa stamps on arrival
Cons:
- ❌ Single entry only (no re-entry after leaving)
- ❌ Limited to specific airports and border crossings
- ❌ No guaranteed extension options
- ❌ Not suitable for long-term stays or work visas
✅ Traditional Visa: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- ✅ Can apply for multiple-entry visas
- ✅ Suitable for long-term stays, work, or business
- ✅ Available for more complex travel needs
- ✅ Option for visa-on-arrival (with pre-approval letter)
Cons:
- ❌ Requires embassy visits or long paperwork
- ❌ Slower processing time in some countries
- ❌ Can be more expensive due to handling/service fees
- ❌ More room for error if doing paperwork alone
🎯 Which Visa is Right for You?
| Travel Type | Best Visa Option |
| Short-term tourism (under 90 days) | e-Visa |
| First-time visitor, direct flight | e-Visa |
| Traveling overland (limited entry points) | Check entry port carefully |
| Business or multiple countries | Traditional Visa |
| Long-term stay (study/work) | Traditional Visa |
💡 My Honest Advice
If you’re traveling to Vietnam for a short vacation or business trip, the e-Visa is absolutely the way to go. It’s fast, easy, and saves you a lot of hassle. But if your plans are more complex—say you’re traveling in and out of Vietnam, or staying long-term—then a traditional visa is worth the effort.
Not sure which one fits your needs? Reach out to Luco Travel—we help travelers like you every day with customized visa advice and reliable processing support.
Need Help Applying?
Whether you want the convenience of an e-Visa or need support with a traditional visa, Luco Travel can handle everything for you:
✅ Eligibility check
✅ Document review
✅ Fast application processing
✅ Friendly support in English
📲 DM us now to get started – https://wa.me/84932998003
