The Covid 19 pandemic has caused massive disruption, especially in the travel and tourism industry. Last March 2020, during the height of the pandemic, several countries around the world have made the unfortunate decision to close their borders. Thus, all flights were cancelled and visa issuance has been cancelled. In Vietnam, the Immigration Department has to temporarily stop issuing visas. This is especially applicable to citizens who came from badly hit countries, such as Hong Kong, which also have to deal with the rapid surge of coronavirus cases.

Thankfully, these things were only temporary. Now that the world is trying to go back to normal, Vietnam has once again opened its visa issuance. Hopefully, more visitors will be enticed to visit the country to help the tourism industry bounce back from the loss brought about by the deadly virus. For citizens of Hong Kong, a visa is required to enter Vietnam. You are qualified to avail of two types of Vietnam visas, the e-visa and the visa on arrival.

Vietnam Visa Options for Citizens of Hong Kong

For Hong Kong citizens who are planning to visit Vietnam soon, you can apply for the e-visa for your trip. This is the easiest and most convenient option. It’s the kind of visa that you can apply online and you don’t need to visit the Vietnam embassy or queue at the airport to get it. This is a single entry visa and will let you stay in Vietnam for a maximum of 30 days.

The other visa is called the Visa on Arrival. Even though you can only get this visa on your arrival in Vietnam, you’re required to register to get a pre-approval letter. Without the letter, you won’t be given this visa. The best part about the visa on arrival is that it will let you apply for multiple visas and with a maximum stay of 90 days.

How to Apply for the Vietnam E-visa for Citizens of Hong Kong

Since the e-visa is an electronic visa, the only way to get it is to apply online. This is truly an advantage to those who don’t want to waste time at the embassy just to get their visa. With the e-visa, you’ll only spend a few minutes of your time online. This is how to apply for the e-visa.

1. Fill out the application form online. Make sure you type in your name correctly. Be very careful with entering your passport number and make sure it matches with what’s on your passport.
2. Upload a copy of the passport’s bio page. You can submit a scanned copy or simply take a photo of the page. Make sure it’s clear and shows all the important details. You also need to submit digital copies of your passport-sized photos so you should have this ready.

3. On the next page, you’ll be asked to pay for the processing fee. This will cost you around $25. The website accepts credit card or debit card payment. You can also pay through PayPal. Wait for verification on your email that the payment has been processed.
4. After 3 -5 business days, you’ll receive an email to update you on the status of your visa. If it’s approved, you’ll be asked to download a copy of the visa. Print the visa and that’s what you’ll use to enter Vietnam.
5. Upon your arrival at the airport, just go directly to Passport Control. Give your passport and e-visa to the immigration officer, and you will be stamped for entry.

How to Apply for the Vietnam Visa on Arrival for Citizens of Hong Kong

If you’re staying in Vietnam for more than 30 days, the visa on arrival is ideal for you. This is also a great visa to apply if you need a multiple-entry visa. Here’s how you go about it.

1. Go online and register. Fill out the application form with your complete name, address, nationality, etc. Review the information you entered and make sure everything is correct. Then submit the form.
2. Wait for an email for your pre-approval letter. The email will also come with a blank application form. Print the form and fill it out in advance. Bring it with you to Vietnam along with the pre-approval letter.
3. On your arrival at Vietnam airport, look for the Visa Landing counter. Here, submit your pre-approval letter, passport, and the application form. You’ll also be asked to give photos. Pay for the stamping fee and then wait for your visa to be processed.
4. After a few minutes, your name will be called. Proceed to the counter to claim your passport. Check your passport and it will have the visa sticker. You can then go to Passport Control to be stamped for entry.