Vietnam is a beautiful country in Southeast Asia that is becoming an increasingly popular destination for tourists from New Zealand. As a New Zealand citizen, you will need to obtain a visa in order to enter Vietnam. Here is an overview of the Vietnam visa requirements and process for New Zealand passport holders.
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Do New Zealand Citizens Need a Visa for Vietnam?
Yes, New Zealand citizens are required to have a valid visa to enter Vietnam. Vietnam is not one of the countries that New Zealand citizens can visit visa-free or with a visa on arrival.
The good news is that the process of applying for a Vietnam visa from New Zealand is relatively straightforward. There are two main options:
- Apply for a visa in advance at the Vietnamese embassy in Wellington. This is the traditional route that involves submitting an application and supporting documents either in person or by post.
- Apply for an approval letter online and get a visa on arrival. This is a popular option as it allows you to take care of the visa process entirely online and simply collect your visa when you arrive at a Vietnamese airport.
Vietnam Visa Requirements for New Zealand Citizens
To apply for a Vietnam visa from New Zealand, you will need:
- A valid New Zealand passport with at least 6 months validity remaining.
- A completed visa application form.
- A passport-size photo taken within the last 6 months.
- A scanned copy of your passport’s information page.
- Payment of visa fees. A single-entry tourist visa costs around NZD $80.
- Additional documents may be required depending on your purpose of travel, such as an invitation letter for a business visa.
How to Apply for a Vietnam Visa From New Zealand
Embassy Visa Application:
To apply for your visa through the embassy in Wellington, you need to download the application form from their website and submit it by post or in person along with the required documents and fees. Processing time is typically 5-7 business days once the application is received.
Visa on Arrival:
This is the more convenient option that allows you to get pre-approved for a visa and pick it up when you land in Vietnam. Here’s how it works in 4 easy steps:
- Apply online and provide details like your passport, dates, and purpose of travel.
- Pay visa fees securely online. Approval letters typically cost around NZD $25.
- Receive approval letter via email within 1-3 business days.
- Present approval letter and passport on arrival to get visa stamped.
Visa Options for New Zealanders
The main visa types available to New Zealand citizens visiting Vietnam are:
- Tourist visa – For tourism and short-term stays up to 30 days. Can be single or multiple entry.
- Business visa – For business trips, meetings, events etc. Valid up to 6 months.
- Work visa – Required for any paid or voluntary employment in Vietnam. Your Vietnam employer will generally assist with the work permit and visa application.
- Visa extensions – Tourist and business visas can usually be extended once in Vietnam for an additional 30 days.
Key Tips for New Zealanders Getting a Vietnam Visa
- Apply well in advance of your departure, at least 2 weeks is recommended.
- Make sure your passport has plenty of empty pages and 6+ months validity.
- Double check visa requirements match your purpose length of stay.
- Print out visa approval letter before traveling for easy clearance on arrival.
- Have some passport photos handy as they may be required for extensions.
- Be aware visa rules can change so always check current requirements.
Conclusion
While Vietnam does require visas for New Zealand citizens, the application process is quite straightforward. With some advance planning, you can obtain the necessary visa through the Vietnamese embassy in New Zealand or via the convenient visa on arrival process. Be sure to check current visa rules and allow sufficient processing time when applying. With visa in hand, you’ll be ready to explore incredible Vietnam!
