Foreigners cannot enter Vietnam without a visa. Tourist visas are usually granted at Vietnamese embassies and consulates abroad. Business travelers should apply for a visa through a Vietnamese sponsoring agency, providing them with the following details:
-Full name
- Date and place of birth
- Profession
- Passport number
- Date of issue and expiry
- Nationality (original and present)
- Date and point of entry to Vietnam.
The sponsor will forward these details to the Vietnamese Immigration Authorities. Approval for the visit may take 7-10 days.
The relevant Vietnamese embassy or consulate is notified by telex of the Visa approval. When notified, take the telex number and 2-4 passport photos with you to collect your visa.
Business visas may be for up to six months and allow for multiple entry.
The following visa fees are charged:
- Single entry & transit visa: US$25
- Extension of single entry visa:US$10
- Multiple entry: US$40-US$100
- Extension of multiple entry visa: US$16.
CUSTOMS AND IMMIGRATION
On arrival in Vietnam, you must complete white and blue duplicate arrival-departure forms. The blue copy is to be kept with your passport at all times. Hotels, guest houses and private hosts must register overnight guests with the local police and these blue forms are essential for this purpose.
Incoming visitors must also fill out duplicate yellow and white customs declaration forms. The yellow copy is to remain with your passport until departure. Do not lose it! On the yellow and white Customs Forms you are expected to declare: Cameras, camcorders and other electric equipments not for personal use, Currency over US$3,000, Jewellery not for personal us, Video tapes (they may be kept for a few days and screened. Duty free allowances are 200 cigarettes, two litres of alcohol, perfume and jewellery for personal use.
BANNED MATERIAL
Vietnam has strict laws on bringing anti-government literature, pornography, firearms and weapons into the country. CDs and tapes are often retained for screening, but will be returned after a few days. It is illegal to remove antiques from Vietnam. When buying handicrafts, especially those that look old, ask the retailer for a receipt and declaration that the item may be exported.
