Asia - Getting Vietnam visa in SF and elsewhere, some tips

Hi- My wife and I just got our Vietnam visas from the Consulate of Vietnam in San Fran and I thought I would give some comments on how much of a quick and easy process it was.

I was swinging thru SF on business and since we were cutting it close on time (and I hate sending my passport thru the mail at the last minute before a long trip), I decided to call the Consulate and see how fast they could process our visas if I came in person. Turns out it's pretty fast and they are super nice. I also am somewhat of a cheapskate and didnt want to pay $175 per person for a service to walk things thru, so this was a very cheap option.

They let you drop off the passports anytime before 5pm and will have them done by 11am the next day. They arent open some afternoons, but even on those afternoons you can call them before 5pm and they will let you in to take your $$, applications and passports. So I dropped ours off at 4:30pm on Wed and went and grabbed them before lunch the next day.

If you have a business trip planned for SF and need visas, the consulate is very convenient. It's just up at the top of the hill on California, at the intersection of California and VanNess. That's super easy to get to from a meeting downtown. If you have a rental car they even have parking in the basement, $3 for the 20 minutes it takes to drop off.

What was the cost of a single visa?
What is the duration of the visa? (Specifically once you enter Viet Nam how long can you stay?)
How long is the visa good for? (How far in advance of your trip can you obtain the visa?)

I imagine all of this is on the Viet Nam website, but sometimes real world experience is different.

.....

I recently got mine thru the mail...(fed ex)...$45 and very fast...I believe my passport was back to me within 4-5 days! Off to Vietnam Monday am! :)

Just to remark that it is not possible for normal travellers to get a visa in SF the same day since, as I was told, visa clearance has to be granted by Hanoi and the time difference doesn't allow it.

Vietnam Visa is also available on arrival at the airport in Vietnam for $50/person just in case :)

Nuf Said from the real world.

Canned response you'll get from the embassy:
DEAR APPLICANT:

THANK YOU FOR YOUR INTEREST IN VISITING VIETNAM AND FOR WRITING TO THE EMBASSY.

PLEASE TAKE A MOMENT TO REVIEW THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION ORGANIZED IN THE FORM OF Q&A'S.

1) DO I NEED A VISA?
- YES, YOU DO.
- TECHNICALLY, ANY HOLDER OF A VALID (6 MONTHS PRIOR TO EXPIRATION) PASSPORT OTHER THAN VIETNAMESE, NO MATTER WHAT CITIZENSHIP, NEEDS A VISA.
- PLEASE CONTACT THE NEAREST VIETNAMESE EMBASSY FOR FURTHER INFORMATION IF YOU THINK YOUR COUNTRY AND VIETNAM HAVE A VISA-WAIVER AGREEMENT.

2) HOW EARLY AND HOW LATE CAN I APPLY FOR A VISA?
- YOU CAN APPLY FOR YOUR VISA AS EARLY AS SIX MONTHS PRIOR TO THE PROPOSED DATE OF ENTRY.
- YOU CAN APPLY FOR A VISA AS LATE AS A FEW DAYS PRIOR TO YOUR PLANNED DEPARTURE. PLEASE CALL OR EMAIL THE EMBASSY TO CHECK YOUR OPTIONS FOR RUSH/EXPEDITED SERVICE.

3) HOW LONG WILL THE VISA BE GOOD FOR?
- THE VISA WILL BE ISSUED ON THE BASIS OF YOUR SPECIFIC PROPOSED DATES ON THE APPLICATION.
- PLEASE NOTE THAT THE APPLICANT CAN ONLY ENTER VIETNAM ON OR AFTER THE DATE OF ENTRY STATED ON THE VISA APPLICATION FORM.

4) WHAT TO SUBMIT?
- PASSPORT.
- APPLICATION FORM ( FORM CAN BE DOWNLOAD AT THE LINK BELOW
<http://www.vietnamembassy.us/consular_services/visa_info/>).
- 1 PASSPORT-SIZE PICTURE (2X2).
- FEE (2 MONEY ORDERS PER APPLICATION PACKAGE), PAYABLE TO "EMBASSY OF VIETNAM." APPLICANTS APPLYING TOGETHER MAY SUBMIT THE FEE IN ONE MONEY ORDER.
- A SELF-ADDRESSED POSTAGE-PAID RETURN ENVELOPE. FOR THE SAFETY OF YOUR PASSPORT(S), PLEASE USE ONLY ONE OF THE FOLLOWING MAILING SERVICES WHICH PROVIDE TRACKING NUMBERS: FEDERAL EXPRESS (FEDEX), OR US EXPRESS MAIL OR PRIORITY MAIL WITH DELIVERY CONFIRMATION OR CERTIFIED MAIL . PLEASE DO NOT USE OTHER MAILING SERVICES. IF YOU USE FEDEX, PLEASE MAKE SURE THAT YOU PUT YOUR NAME, ADDRESS AND PHONE NUMBER IN BOTH SENDER'S AND RECIPIENT'S BOXES. APPLICANTS APPLYING TOGETHER MAY PROVIDE ONE ENVELOPE FOR VISAS TO BE RETURNED TO THE SAME ADDRESS.

5) HOW TO FILL OUT THE APPLICATION?
- ALL ITEMS MUST BE FILLED-OUT COMPLETELY IN UPPER CASE LETTERS.
- DO NOT USE PO BOX ADDRESSES.
- ITEM 11 (NAME, ADDRESS OF YOUR CONTACT IN VIETNAM) IS REQUIRED FOR "BUSINESS TRIPS" ONLY.
- PUT YOUR TOWN/CITY ON THE LINE "PLACE" AT THE END OF THE FORM.

6) THE FEE SCHEDULE?
WITHOUT A PRIOR VISA AUTHORIZATION/APPROVAL:
-SINGLE ENTRY, ONE-MONTH:
- $65.00 (REGULAR SERVICE - 5 BUSINESS DAYS).
- $85.00 (RUSH SERVICE - 02 WORKIGN DAYS).
- MULTIPLE ENTRIES:
- ONE MONTH: $130.00 (05 BUSINESS DAYS).
- 3 MONTHS: $150 (05 BUSINESS DAYS).
- 6 MONTHS: $200 (05 BUSINESS DAYS).

7) HOW TO PAY THE FEE?
PLEASE PREPARE TWO MONEY ORDERS PAYABLE TO "THE EMBASSY OF VIETNAM" AS FOLLOWS:

-SINGLE ENTRY, ONE-MONTH, REGULAR SERVICE:
- ONE MONEY ORDER OF $25.00 (MEMO LINE: VISA FEE).
- ONE MONEY ORDER OF $40.00 (MEMO LINE: REGULAR PROCESSING FEE).

-SINGLE ENTRY, ONE-MONTH, RUSH SERVICE:
- ONE MONEY ORDER OF $25.00 (MEMO LINE: VISA FEE).
- ONE MONEY ORDER OF $60.00 (MEMO LINE: RUSH PROCESSING FEE).

-MULTIPLE ENTRY, ONE-MONTH:
- ONE MONEY ORDER OF $40.00 (MEMO LINE: VISA FEE).
- ONE MONEY ORDER OF $90.00 (MEMO LINE: MULTI-ENTRIES PROCESSING FEE).

-MULTIPLE ENTRY, THREE-MONTH:
- ONE MONEY ORDER OF $70.00 (MEMO LINE: VISA FEE).
- ONE MONEY ORDER OF $80.00 (MEMO LINE: MULTI-ENTRIES PROCESSING FEE).

-MULTIPLE ENTRY, SIX-MONTH:
- ONE MONEY ORDER OF $70.00 (MEMO LINE: VISA FEE).
- ONE MONEY ORDER OF $130.00 (MEMO LINE: MULTI-ENTRIES PROCESSING FEE).

NOTE: ONE GROUP APPLYING TOGETHER CAN TURN IN TWO MONEY ORDERS (ONE FOR THE VISA FEE AND THE OTHER FOR THE PROCESSING FEE) FOR THE ENTIRE GROUP.

8) HOW TO SUBMIT?
- HOURS FOR DROP-OFF AND WALK-IN AT THE EMBASSY: 9:30-12:30 (MONDAY-FRIDAY)
- BY MAIL:
FOR THE SAFETY OF YOUR PASSPORT/DOCUMENT, PLEASE ONLY USE ONE OF THE FOLLOWING MAILING SERVICES WHICH PROVIDE TRACKING NUMBERS: - FEDERAL EXPRESS (FEDEX) (WWW.FEDEX.COM <HTTP://WWW.FEDEX.COM>)
- EXPRESS MAIL (WWW.USPS.COM <HTTP://WWW.USPS.COM>)
- CERTIFIED MAIL
- PRIORITY MAIL WITH DELIVERY CONFIRMATIONPLEASE DO NOT USE OTHER MAILING SERVICES. APPLICANTS APPLYING TOGETHER MAY PROVIDE ONE ENVELOPE FOR VISAS TO BE RETURNED TO THE SAME ADDRESS.

9) WHERE TO SUBMIT?
CONSULAR SECTION
EMBASSY OF VIETNAM
1233 20TH STREET, NW
SUITE 400
WASHINGTON, DC 20036

10) IMMUNIZATION?
- NO INFORMATION AVAILABLE NOW, AND IT IS NOT REQUIRED.

11) CAN I GET A VISA AT THE AIRPORT?
- WITHOUT A PROPER ENTRY VISA, AIRLINERS WILL NOT ALLOW THE PASSENGER TO BOARD.
- PLEASE USE THE 2-DAY PROCEDURE DESIGNED TO ASSIST APPLICANTS UNDER TIME PRESSURE.

WE HOPE ALL YOU WANTED TO KNOW HAVE BEEN ANSWERED.

IF YOU STILL HAVE FURTHER QUESTIONS, PLEASE EMAIL TO THEM THE EMBASSY AT CONSULAR@VIETNAMEMBASSY-USA.ORG.

"Vietnam Visa is also available on arrival at the airport in Vietnam for $50/person just in case"

Only if you live in a country without consular relations with Vietnam. Ask the two South Africans who checked out of the country at SGN on the way to REP. Immigration told them to get a new visa at the consul in REP. My agent specifically told me that the visa was cancelled and a new one had to be obtained outside the country for any further visit.

If you think you are going into Vietnam more than once, get a multiple entry visa.

I stumbled on this visa on arrival (http://www.sinhcafe.com/visa_on_arrival_at_tan_son_nhat_.htm) service for Vietnam. I have no direct experience so cannot comment on the viability of this alternative.

I have observed people in the Vietnam embassy here in Bangkok (on Wireless/Wittayu Rd. quite near the U.S. Embassy) obtaining same-day visas. However they were paying ~ double the normal fee (I cannot remember the standard fee, but it wasn't more than 25 USD, if that.) and they had to wait at least three hours. Otherwise it is a one-day service. They have limited office hours, maybe 2-3 hours in the AM and 2-3 hours in the afternoon.

Thanks to OP for the post! Good stuff to know. ^

"Vietnam Visa is also available on arrival at the airport in Vietnam for $50/person just in case"

Only if you live in a country without consular relations with Vietnam. Ask the two South Africans who checked out of the country at SGN on the way to REP. Immigration told them to get a new visa at the consul in REP. My agent specifically told me that the visa was cancelled and a new one had to be obtained outside the country for any further visit.

If you think you are going into Vietnam more than once, get a multiple entry visa.

This poster is right on two counts. I recently took my mother-in-law to Siem Reap, and we came/went through SGN. Since I live in San Francisco I was able to easily get visas for us at the Consulate here (price now $45). Very convenient as others have said.

My big mistake was not getting a multiple entry visa. We arrived SGN and spent 3 days, then on to REP for several days then back to SGN. Even though I am experienced, I did not notice that there is an option for single entry and multiple entry visas. Imagine my surprise when Vietnam Air was not going to let us on the return flight to SGN since we did not have valid visas. After much discussion, they made us sign waivers saying that the airline was not responsible for us once we arrived in SGN. Off we go, and agreed on the plane to give the regular immigration a try (we were spending the night in town). No luck. No visa, your picture does not pop up on the computer, no go.

To make matters worse, and to prove that I really am an idiot, we had no evidence that we were leaving Vietnam. Electronic tickets on UA, but no print out of itinerary or anything else. Even worse still, we both had picked up intestinal (yes the worst kind) bugs in Cambodia. For a while, I thought we were going to be sitting in the transit lounge all night, but finally, after pleading, and only because we happened to have extra pictures with us, we were allowed to get a one day visa for $25 each. Took a while, but after a spanking and the $50 we go through, but bottom line, do not count on getting a visa at SGN, and make sure you get multiple entry unless you are sure you are only entering once and leaving once.

There is no "Visa on arrival" for Vietnam. There is however, "Pre-arranged Visa on arrival". This service is used for visitors who does not have a consulate/embassy in their country or those who travel on emergency situation (death in the family, etc...). However, in the later, you will need the service of a travel agency in Vietnam. The Visa fee for a single entry is $25 USD, $50 for multiple entries but the travel agency usually tacks on an extra $10 for their services. I have used this service multiple times. You will need a scan of your passport, the agency will fax/email you a letter confirming that you have a visa waiting for you at the airport. You will have to show the airline this letter before they allow you to board.

I am glad this "visa on arrival" buisness has been cleared up on this because I go to VN often and would certainly been left high and dry when I found out they would not give me one at the airport!!! For now, I will just have to send the old passport in to the SFO consulate....

I recently got mine thru the mail...(fed ex)...$45 and very fast...I believe my passport was back to me within 4-5 days! Off to Vietnam Monday am! :)

I had an incredibly quick turnaround on my visa sending it transcon with plain old Priority Mail. When I called to check the status they said they are processing applications in one day.

I'm going to Vietnam on the 18th of April. Will be in LA next week (10th-15th of April) and was thinking of dropping by the consulate and getting my visa. I just discovered that the consulate is in San Francisco... doh. Should be able to fedex my passport Monday and get it returned by Friday or should I just hop over to SF for a few days and do it in person? Have e-mailed the embassy, but they probably won't answer til Monday anyway. Feel stupid having it left so late, and now having to pay rush fedex/processing fee, but cost is no longer the issue; just want to get my visa/passport on time.

I'm going to Vietnam on the 18th of April. Will be in LA next week (10th-15th of April) and was thinking of dropping by the consulate and getting my visa. I just discovered that the consulate is in San Francisco... doh. Should be able to fedex my passport Monday and get it returned by Friday or should I just hop over to SF for a few days and do it in person? Have e-mailed the embassy, but they probably won't answer til Monday anyway. Feel stupid having it left so late, and now having to pay rush fedex/processing fee, but cost is no longer the issue; just want to get my visa/passport on time.
I've gotten two visas from the SF office this year and both were turned around in one day.

Well I sent my passport last Monday and the Embassy received it the following day. I called to confirm and they assured me that they would return my passport on Wednesday. Nothing arrived Thursday and I requested that they send the FedEx tracking number. It corresponded to the Air Bill I had included, but nothing showed up on the FedEx system. It turns out that they sent it out Thursday, so the lady probably told me Wednesday to stop me from calling them all the time:rolleyes:

After 18 tries so far, I am having a difficult time getting through by phone to either the Consulate in SF or the Embassy in DC. They also have not answered emails. The current price for a visa is not listed on the website of either; they say to call for current visa fees. I am trying to confirm that the fee is now $65 per person. Can anyone verify this?

Yes, I sometimes pay extra, but Travel Document Systems (http://www.traveldocs.com) visa service works very well and laves one worry-free. You can also see current visa requirements for almost any coutnry in the world, including fees and downlaoding applications.

The TDS site says, June 29, 2006, for Vietnam (SF Consulate) the fees are:

Fees

TDS Service Fee: $45.00 per visa

Consular Fess (sic): (Single Entry)
$ 25.00 PER VISA - Consular Fee
$ 40.00 PER VISA - Approval Fee
$ 65.00 PER VISA - Total Embassy Fee

Rush Embassy Fees:
$ 20.00 PER VISA - (Additional) Issued in 2-3 business days

Multiple Entries:
$150.00 PER VISA - Valid for one to three months
$200.00 PER VISA - Valid for six months

Their complete requirements (and TDS fees) may be seen here (http://www.traveldocs.com/vn/vrsf.htm).

After 18 tries so far, I am having a difficult time getting through by phone to either the Consulate in SF or the Embassy in DC. They also have not answered emails. The current price for a visa is not listed on the website of either; they say to call for current visa fees. I am trying to confirm that the fee is now $65 per person. Can anyone verify this?

(side note... I thought I shared with everyone already... am I going senile? :p)

You weren't alone. As of a week before my trip earlier this month, still no passport (and obviously worried), I was constantly on the phone calling the SF consulate, and always getting the "The person you're trying to reach is unavailable, please leave a message *hangup click*" I was darned near flying up to SFO to deal with it!

Finally, after punching in a random sequence of numbers, I reached a human being (while at a restaurant in Cleveland :)) and he was some computer IT person. I wouldn't let him go... I explained my situation (and the fact that the phone system sucks), and the gentleman was kind enough to give me his personal cell phone number :eek: and I was told to call back in 1/2 hour. Sure enough, I called, and he had checked (it was being held at my post office... wth?!)

ALSO, I just checked... I had a funny feeling about the fee, and I checked my checkbook again... I made out the check for $45! (So did my business partner). I remember thinking it was more than that, but I didn't really question the person on the phone (how I got a hold of a person that time, I do not know).

So I don't know. I see the higher fee listed on visa service sites as well. Good luck I suppose?

I think - Ya got lucky, Ice!

Ya also got persistence, good for you. ^


“Things may come to those who wait, but only the things left by those who hustle.” - Abraham Lincoln.

Sure enough, I called, and he had checked (it was being held at my post office... wth?!)

ALSO, I just checked... I had a funny feeling about the fee, and I checked my checkbook again... I made out the check for $45! (So did my business partner). I remember thinking it was more than that, but I didn't really question the person on the phone (how I got a hold of a person that time, I do not know).

So I don't know. I see the higher fee listed on visa service sites as well. Good luck I suppose?

There are two fees. One is a $20 charge that is only required the first time you apply. The second is the regular $45 fee. So the first visa should cost $65 in total, while all subsequent ones are $45.

Interesting about your P.O. problem. My second VN visa was delivered to the wrong address by my mailman. Someone two blocks away (entirely different street name and #) was nice enough to look me up and leave a message for me that she received an important-looking package for me. If she'd just stuck it back in the mail I might have missed my trip. I've found the service from the SF office to be extremely quick, although getting someone on the phone is indeed difficult.

There are two fees. One is a $20 charge that is only required the first time you apply. The second is the regular $45 fee. So the first visa should cost $65 in total, while all subsequent ones are $45.


That would explain it, but for the fact that they never asked if I had applied before (which I had).... clairvoyance? :)

Finally, after punching in a random sequence of numbers, I reached a human being

That certainly is more logical than anything else I tried. :D
After more than three dozen attempted phone calls and a dozen unanswered emails, I sent in a $260 cashier's check, four passports, and four visa applications. :::fingers crossed:::

"Vietnam Visa is also available on arrival at the airport in Vietnam for $50/person just in case"

Only if you live in a country without consular relations with Vietnam. Ask the two South Africans who checked out of the country at SGN on the way to REP. Immigration told them to get a new visa at the consul in REP. My agent specifically told me that the visa was cancelled and a new one had to be obtained outside the country for any further visit.

If you think you are going into Vietnam more than once, get a multiple entry visa.

You were tremendously helpful on my first leisure trip to Vietnam in October, 2005. However, on this one, I am going to disagree. Since October, I have made three more trips. Thanks again for all the help.

First trip-visa on arrival. Arranged by Vietnamese travel agent in Hanoi. Pre approval letter was faxed to me in September, 2005. I showed the letter to Cathay in HKG. I just had to take the letter and pictures and hand it to the guy at the airport in Hanoi for visa.

Second trip-arrive from BKK to SGN. Pre arranged letter in hand. Same procedure.

Third trip-finally realized that there was a multiple entry visa I could obtain. That one I got in the US.

You CANNOT just show up in Vietnam and expect to get a visa. I am sure that is what happens to quite a few when they hear "visa on arrival". Visa on arrival MUST be pre arranged with a travel agent in Vietnam. And you must have the letter in your possession to board the aircraft AND get the visa. It is doable, but only if you follow the rules.

Here is my recent experience getting a visa for Vietnam here in the US.

First I called the consulate in San Francisco. After many calls, I finally reached an actual person. I asked how much the total fee for a visa was and he said $45. I asked if I could combine two applications with one MO for $90 and he said yes.

Saturday, 1 July, I sent the two applications (USPS Priority Mail), each with a photo stapled to it, our two passports, each with a spare photo inside, a postal money order for $90, a Priority Mail SASE and my business card with a short note of thanks on the back (this IS an Asian country).

The completed visas (for 30 days, even though we will be in VN only a few days) arrived today, Friday 7 July. Very smooth, except for the initial calls to nail down an exact amount for the visas. ^

Here is my recent experience getting a visa for Vietnam here in the US.

First I called the consulate in San Francisco. After many calls, I finally reached an actual person. I asked how much the total fee for a visa was and he said $45. I asked if I could combine two applications with one MO for $90 and he said yes.

Saturday, 1 July, I sent the two applications (USPS Priority Mail), each with a photo stapled to it, our two passports, each with a spare photo inside, a postal money order for $90, a Priority Mail SASE and my business card with a short note of thanks on the back (this IS an Asian country).

The completed visas (for 30 days, even though we will be in VN only a few days) arrived today, Friday 7 July. Very smooth, except for the initial calls to nail down an exact amount for the visas. ^


Quick question... was this your first time requesting Visas?

Quick question... was this your first time requesting Visas?

Yes, first time.

I want to add that I am fairly sure the procedures and fees are different between the consulate in San Francisco and the embassy in DC.

I would certainly call first and speak with someone no matter how much of a hassle it is to actually get a real person on the phone.

Yes, first time.

I want to add that I am fairly sure the procedures and fees are different between the consulate in San Francisco and the embassy in DC.

I would certainly call first and speak with someone no matter how much of a hassle it is to actually get a real person on the phone.

Interesting... this sort of confirms the price as $45. While I had applied for a Visa already, I just realized it was my business partner's first time (although she sent hers to DC).

I just spoke with a representative at the Vietnamese Mission to the UN in NYC. They also issue visas from that office. They have great hours (9:30-6), and they accept payment in cash, check and money order, so if you don't want to deal with getting a MO you can just pay cash.

The only down side was that he said it was $75 for regular service. I don't know if the rates went up or if it is different or what, but that is still cheaper than paying for the FedEx.

Permanent Representative of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam to the United Nations
866 United Nations Plaza (48th & 1st)
Suite 435
New York, NY 10017
Phone: 1-212-644-0594/-0831/-1564
Fax: 1-212-644-5732

Thanks for the tip. That's a lot more appealling than sending my passport on another cross-country excursion. FYI, the consullate in SFO accepts personal checks as well in spite of what they might say on the web site or phone recording.

Hi- My wife and I just got our Vietnam visas from the Consulate of Vietnam in San Fran and I thought I would give some comments on how much of a quick and easy process it was.
...
.

Same experience here, but via express mail. Fedex my visa application on Sat for 5pm pickup, Arrived at SF consulate on Mon 10am, Visa processed/granted and sent out Fedex (prepaid) sameday at 5PM, Received my Passport w/VISA Tues 10am. Unbelievably FAST.

I am awaiting the return of my two passports I sent to the consulate in SF this last week. I have been to VN several times, nin the last two years, and every time, was issued a single entry visa for $65. The few times I called, they told me it was $65, even for return visits, but that was early last year. When I could not get a hold of anyone this time, I just sent the same amount.

My experience is that they are quick with the turnaround times at the SF consulate. I would imagine this could change as tourism really picks up in Vietnam.

The other posters are correct, without a visa as an American, you will be deported the next day, and this can get very expensive. The Vietnamese are great people, but do not try to side-skip their laws...they are still a communist country and are still behaving that way. Some of the common freedoms that we have in the US are not options there...so use discretion at all times.

Enjoy!

The other posters are correct, without a visa as an American, you will be deported the next day, and this can get very expensive.

Most likely you will not be allowed to board your flight to VN without a Visa.

Most likely you will not be allowed to board your flight to VN without a Visa.


True, but since this is simply a visual verification of the visa, it can be overlooked easily. I have seen this happen many times in these days of self check in units and such. In fact, somehow, it happens more often than it should.


As an update, my passports arrived today from the Vietnam consulate in SF. Very quick turnaround, by FedEx tracking records, they had the passports less than 24 hours. Of course, I received them today (monday) but would have received them in less than 4 days total turnaround if it was not for the weekend. (Sent them Wednesday afternoon)

My passport had 3 visas in it already for Vietnam, but Mrs. JC5280's passport has never had a visa from there.

I forgot to add my experience here... I went to the Consulate in SF back in October to drop off my friends' visa apps. Dropped them off Thursday morning, went back around 2pm Friday and got them. $45 each ^

In fact, I'm going back tomorrow to get visas for my folks.

Why does the VN embassy page not list how much a tourist visa costs anywhere on its sites?

I'm mailing in a visa application, but have no idea how much it costs. Does anyone know?

http://web3.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=492407&highlight=vietnam+visa

I know, just did it.

My bad for not searching first.

Why does the VN embassy page not list how much a tourist visa costs anywhere on its sites?

I'm mailing in a visa application, but have no idea how much it costs. Does anyone know?

In London they aren't even displayed when you get inside. I think its because they like to hide the fact they are overcharging.... as I understand it, the fees are fixed in USD (or at least part of them are) and despite 1 GBP now being worth almost 2 USD, they haven't revised their fees.

(GBP38 for a tourist visa, takes a week.)

As per that thread, unless you're in one of the very few countries that does not require a visa, I would not attempt to go there without a visa in your passport or on a separate piece of paper. "Visa on arrival" basically means its been approved in Vietnam in advance.... but you will still have to pursuade your airline to let you board.

In London they aren't even displayed when you get inside. I think its because they like to hide the fact they are overcharging.... as I understand it, the fees are fixed in USD (or at least part of them are) and despite 1 GBP now being worth almost 2 USD, they haven't revised their fees.

(GBP38 for a tourist visa, takes a week.)

Holy crap... yeah, I've always suspected they do that to allow for "changes" to whatever is most convenient to them. But overcharged AND slow service... yeesh.

It should also be added that the fee is subject to varying from consulate to consulate, country to country. As such the $45 figure mentioned for the San Fransisco consulate was and 'probably' still is accurate but I would not go by any information other than what you receive directly and currently from the specific consulate in question. For instance at least as of a couple of years ago a US citizen paid $45 at the Embassy in DC or the consulate in San Fransisco, or $40 at the Embassy in Bangkok or $30 at the embassy's in Phnom Penh or Vientaine or the bargain price of only $25 at the consulate in Sihnookville Cambodia. What the fees are today? I don't know. The $45 is probably accurate but I would defiantly get on the phone and call the consulate for an authoritative answer.

I just got my vietnam visa back from the SF consulate today. I paid $25 visa fee and $40 processing fee. They processed it within one day and I had it back less than a week after I sent it (from within CA.)

I just got my vietnam visa back from the SF consulate today. I paid $25 visa fee and $40 processing fee. They processed it within one day and I had it back less than a week after I sent it (from within CA.)

That office is extremely efficient processing visas. But since my mailman decided to deliver it to the wrong address, I now spend $75 and trek twice (once to drop off and once to pick up) to the U.N. Mission for my visas.

Ditto here, with the Embassy in San Francisco. I sent in my passport, the visa form off their site, and two cashier checks -- one for a $25 visa fee, one for a $40 processing fee. I used USPS Express mail, and included an envelope addressed to me (from me) that was stamped.

Sent it on a Thursday, it got there on a Friday. They sent it back on a Tuesday, I got it on a Wednesday.

Never could get ahold of either embassy in the U.S. I tried each a few times, left a message once, nothing. But the passport and visa got back fine.

Here's the response when I sent an e-mail to the embassy from their site....

DEAR APPLICANT:

THANK YOU FOR YOUR INTEREST IN VISITING VIETNAM AND FOR WRITING TO THE EMBASSY.

PLEASE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION ORGANIZED IN THE FORM OF Q&A'S.

1) DO I NEED A VISA?
- YES, YOU DO.
- TECHNICALLY, ANY HOLDER OF A VALID (6 MONTHS PRIOR TO EXPIRATION) PASSPORT OTHER THAN VIETNAMESE, NO MATTER WHAT CITIZENSHIP, NEEDS A VISA.
- THIS GENERAL RULE IS APPLICABLE TO US CITIZENS, CANADIAN CITIZENS, LATIN AMERICAN COUNTRIES, EU CITIZENS, AND JAPANESE CITIZENS.
- PLEASE CONTACT THE NEAREST VIETNAM EMBASSY FOR FURTHER INFORMATION IF YOU THINK YOUR COUNTRY AND VIETNAM HAVE A VISA-WAIVER AGREEMENT.

2) HOW EARLY AND HOW LATE CAN I APPLY FOR A VISA?
- YOU CAN APPLY FOR YOUR VISA AS EARLY AS SIX MONTHS PRIOR TO THE PROPOSED DATE OF ENTRY.
- YOU CAN APPLY FOR A VISA AS LATE AS A FEW DAYS PRIOR TO YOUR DEPARTURE. PLEASE CALL OR EMAIL THE EMBASSY TO CHECK YOUR OPTIONS FOR RUSH/EXPEDITED SERVICE.

3) HOW LONG WILL THE VISA BE GOOD FOR?
- THE VISA WILL BE ISSUED ON THE BASIS OF YOUR SPECIFIC PROPOSED DATES ON THE APPLICATION.
- THE APPLICANT CANNOT ENTER THE COUNTRY BEFORE THE DATE.

4) WHAT TO SUBMIT?
- PASSPORT.
- APPLICATION FORM (<http://www.vietnamembassy.us/consular_services/visa_info/>).
- 1 PASSPORT-SIZE PICTURE (2X2).
- FEE (2 MONEY ORDERS PER APPLICATION PACKAGE), PAYABLE TO "EMBASSY OF VIETNAM." APPLICANTS APPLYING TOGETHER MAY SUBMIT THE FEE IN ONE MONEY ORDER.
- A SELF-ADDRESSED POSTAGE-PAID RETURN ENVELOPE. FOR THE SAFETY OF YOUR PASSPORT(S), PLEASE USE ONLY ONE OF THE FOLLOWING MAILING SERVICES WHICH PROVIDE TRACKING NUMBERS: US EXPRESS MAIL OR CERTIFIED MAIL WITH FULL LABEL. PLEASE DO NOT USE OTHER MAILING SERVICES. APPLICANTS APPLYING TOGETHER MAY PROVIDE ONE ENVELOPE FOR VISAS TO BE RETURNED TO THE SAME ADDRESS.

5) HOW TO FILL OUT THE APPLICATION?
- ALL ITEMS MUST BE FILLED-OUT COMPLETELY IN UPPER CASE LETTERS.
- DO NOT USE PO BOX ADDRESSES.
- ITEM 11 (NAME, ADDRESS OF YOUR CONTACT IN VIETNAM) IS REQUIRED FOR "BUSINESS TRIPS" ONLY.
- PUT YOUR TOWN/CITY ON THE LINE "PLACE" AT THE END OF THE FORM.

6) WHAT IS THE FEE?
WITHOUT A PRIOR AUTHORIZATION/APPROVAL:
-SINGLE ENTRY, ONE-MONTH:
- $65.00 (REGULAR SERVICE - 5-7 BUSINESS DAYS).
- $85.00 (RUSH SERVICE - 02-3 WORKING DAYS).

7) HOW TO PAY THE FEE?
PLEASE PREPARE TWO MONEY ORDERS PAYABLE TO "THE EMBASSY OF VIETNAM" AS FOLLOWS:

-SINGLE ENTRY, ONE-MONTH, REGULAR SERVICE:
- ONE MONEY ORDER OF $25.00 (MEMO LINE: VISA FEE).
- ONE MONEY ORDER OF $40.00 (MEMO LINE: REGULAR PROCESSING FEE).

-SINGLE ENTRY, ONE-MONTH, RUSH SERVICE:
- ONE MONEY ORDER OF $25.00 (MEMO LINE: VISA FEE).
- ONE MONEY ORDER OF $60.00 (MEMO LINE: RUSH PROCESSING FEE).

NOTE: ONE GROUP APPLYING TOGETHER CAN TURN IN TWO MONEY ORDERS (ONE FOR THE VISA FEE AND THE OTHER FOR THE PROCESSING FEE) FOR THE ENTIRE GROUP.

8) HOW TO SUBMIT?
- HOURS FOR DROP-OFF AND WALK-IN AT THE EMBASSY: 9:30-12:00 (MONDAY-FRIDAY)
- BY MAIL:
FOR THE SAFETY OF YOUR PAPER(S), PLEASE ONLY USE ONE OF THE FOLLOWING MAILING SERVICES WHICH PROVIDE TRACKING NUMBERS:
- EXPRESS MAIL (WWW.USPS.COM <HTTP://WWW.USPS.COM>)
- CERTIFIED MAIL WITH FULL LABEL
PLEASE DO NOT USE OTHER MAILING SERVICES. APPLICANTS APPLYING TOGETHER MAY PROVIDE ONE ENVELOPE FOR VISAS TO BE RETURNED TO THE SAME ADDRESS.

9) WHERE TO SUBMIT?
CONSULAR SECTION
EMBASSY OF VIETNAM
1233 20TH STREET, NW
SUITE 400
WASHINGTON, DC 20036

10) IMMUNIZATION?
- NO INFORMATION AVAILABLE NOW, AND IT IS NOT REQUIRED.

11) CAN I GET A VISA AT THE AIRPORT?
- WITHOUT A PROPER ENTRY VISA, AIRLINERS WILL NOT ALLOW THE PASSENGER TO BOARD.
- PLEASE USE THE 2-DAY PROCEDURE DESIGNED TO ASSIST APPLICANTS UNDER TIME PRESSURE.

WE HOPE ALL YOU WANTED TO KNOW HAVE BEEN ANSWERED.

IF YOU STILL HAVE FURTHER QUESTIONS, PLEASE EMAIL TO THE EMBASSY AT CONSULAR@VIETNAMEMBASSY.US

THE EMBASSY WILL BE CLOSED FROM FEBRUARY 16 TO FEBRUARY 21, 2007 IN OBSERVANCE OF THE VIETNAMESE LUNAR NEW YEAR .

THE EMBASSY WILL BE OPEN AGAIN ON FEBRUARY 22, 2007

REGARDS,

As a side note, I have only ever obtained visas to VN myself at the SF consulate. I have never payed the "RUSH SERVICE" price. I have only payed the "REGULAR SERVICE" price (which apparently increased recently since that is not what I paid). It has never taken me more than a week total including postal time from southern CA, even not paying the "RUSH SERVICE" price, and I do not suspect I would have recieved my visa any faster if I did pay the "RUSH SERVICE" price.

I've always paid $50 when applied in person at the Vietnamese SF Consulate and it usually takes 3 working days.

Visa fee: range of US$45 - 85 if application is sent directly to the Embassy or US$25-55 if your visa has been pre-approved.

The Visa office is on the 4th floor of the building, right in front of you as you exit the lift.

The Consular section is open from 0830 to 1230. I dropped off my passport today and wrote a US$45.00 check for my tourist visa. The agent who took my paperwork and passport got a kick out of my reaction after she said that I could get my passport tomorrow. :D

They even have a computer you can use to surf the web, once you're past the metal detector!

Small office, but very good service in person. Getting through on the phone, however, is an exercise in futility. Thankfully, I live 2 miles away from the consulate! ^

Thanks for the tip. That's a lot more appealling than sending my passport on another cross-country excursion. FYI, the consullate in SFO accepts personal checks as well in spite of what they might say on the web site or phone recording.

And so much better than the £38 (=about US$74) "come back in a week" London service....

Update: Got a visa in SF for $30 last week (yes, we paid $45 last winter). $45 is the price for "expedited service" which is done while you wait. YMMV... this was for someone who a) has previously requested a visa, and b) is of the correct heritage.

Oh, and the office hours are 0830-1230 <snip>. Will be there again this coming Friday.

With GBP1 just about at USD2, it makes London's GBP38 "come back in a week" tourist visa look even more ridiculous.

Oh, and the office hours are 0830-1230 <snip>. Will be there again this coming Friday.

Well, they took off the afternoon hours... stopped by and there was a printed sign saying hours were M-F 0830-1230 only. :td:

Per my phone conversation this morning, one month single entry visa is $45. The official I spoke to said no personal checks, we may combine multiple fees in one money order.

Just like last year.

Download application HERE (http://www.vietnamconsulate.com/thithuc-don-e.pdf).

This is for a visa through the CONSULATE GENERAL OF VIETNAM IN SAN FRANCISCO. Different terms and conditions exist for visas through the Embassy of Vietnam in Washington D.C.

Per my phone conversation this morning, one month single entry visa is $45. The official I spoke to said no personal checks, we may combine multiple fees in one money order.

Just like last year.

Download application HERE (http://www.vietnamconsulate.com/thithuc-don-e.pdf).

This is for a visa through the CONSULATE GENERAL OF VIETNAM IN SAN FRANCISCO. Different terms and conditions exist for visas through the Embassy of Vietnam in Washington D.C.

I honestly think you might have just sounded too American on the phone ;)

3 weeks ago when I was doing the visa for my mom, it was definitely $30, it came back as a 3-month visa, and they were fine with personal checks (I had my father sign a blank check, just in case it wasn't $45). I also paid with a personal check for my trip last December as well.

I'm thinking you may just need to give your passports to me to process :D

I honestly think you might have just sounded too American on the phone ;)

3 weeks ago when I was doing the visa for my mom, it was definitely $30, it came back as a 3-month visa, and they were fine with personal checks (I had my father sign a blank check, just in case it wasn't $45). I also paid with a personal check for my trip last December as well.

I'm thinking you may just need to give your passports to me to process :D

Okay. We can give them to you at Karl Strauss (http://flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=678094). Will you bring one of those signed blank checks, please? ;)

Is it possible to arrive SGN and then depart an hour later without entering through passport control?

Is it possible to arrive SGN and then depart an hour later without entering through passport control?

I'm fairly confident that this is possible, but I've never done it myself. There is a transfer desk before you get to the passport control, and a passageway back into the terminal.

Note, this is valid for the current terminal... once the new terminal opens, we'll have to wait for confirmation (though there's no reason to suspect otherwise).

I seriously doubt it. Vietnam Air seems not to interline in SGN, so you would have to reclaim baggage, clear customs and check-in with for the next flight. If it is a domestic one, you will certainly have to go thru immigration. If it is a VN international, maybe, but I don't recall seeing anyone at a transfer desk.

I seriously doubt it. Vietnam Air seems not to interline in SGN, so you would have to reclaim baggage, clear customs and check-in with for the next flight. If it is a domestic one, you will certainly have to go thru immigration. If it is a VN international, maybe, but I don't recall seeing anyone at a transfer desk.
:confused:

There's just all sorts of wrongness in that statement, I don't even know where to begin.

But perhaps zvesda could enlighten us with more details, such as airlines and destinations.

Please educate me about all the "wrongness" to my statements. I guarantee you that VN will not interline a domestic VN bag to AF international. Been there, done that. If you cannot check a bag thru, you have to go outside to check-in. Maybe if you have hand carry only and the desk is staffed and the gate agent will check you in then yes, other-wise one is SOL.

I said I do not recall seeing anyone at a xfr desk. Where is the "wrongness" in these statements?

I was specifically thinking of a SIN-SGN-SIN turn on SQ without checked bags. I could probably get the SGN-SIN boarding pass in SIN, but I'm not sure.

When does the new terminal open?

Please educate me about all the "wrongness" to my statements. I guarantee you that VN will not interline a domestic VN bag to AF international. Been there, done that. If you cannot check a bag thru, you have to go outside to check-in. Maybe if you have hand carry only and the desk is staffed and the gate agent will check you in then yes, other-wise one is SOL.

I said I do not recall seeing anyone at a xfr desk. Where is the "wrongness" in these statements?

I was specifically thinking of a SIN-SGN-SIN turn on SQ without checked bags. I could probably get the SGN-SIN boarding pass in SIN, but I'm not sure.

When does the new terminal open?
Well there you go. While I admit I based my statements on certain assumptions (int'l-to-int'l, no bags, some sort of run), they were more likely assumptions than yours, and they ended up being correct.

And every time I go through, the transfer desk has always been staffed, and there's always been a line.

zvezda, I'm fairly sure that you'll have to get your BP in SGN.

The new terminal at SGN is looking very nearly complete. My plane taxied right up to it, before we were all bused to the old terminal. All lights were all on inside and I could see some screens.

But a VNA friend was telling me "maybe next year". I think she was being cynical. Anyway, once its open, previous posts might contain even more wrongnesses.

Actually I'll miss the old terminal - at least for handling arrivals.

There are two fees. One is a $20 charge that is only required the first time you apply. The second is the regular $45 fee. So the first visa should cost $65 in total, while all subsequent ones are $45.
I dropped off my passport for a visa at the Consulate in DC. I had a visa back in 2005, so I was hoping it would only be $45. They still wanted the $65.

The clerk was willing to take cash to cover the additional $20. I wonder where that $20 went?:rolleyes:

I dropped off my passport for a visa at the Consulate in DC. I had a visa back in 2005, so I was hoping it would only be $45. They still wanted the $65.

The clerk was willing to take cash to cover the additional $20. I wonder where that $20 went?:rolleyes:

Now that I use the UN Mission in NYC the fee is $70 regardless of how many visas you've gotten. It sounds like each office writes its own rules.

Here is my recent experience getting a visa for Vietnam here in the US.

First I called the consulate in San Francisco. After many calls, I finally reached an actual person. I asked how much the total fee for a visa was and he said $45. I asked if I could combine two applications with one MO for $90 and he said yes.

Saturday, 1 July, I sent the two applications (USPS Priority Mail), each with a photo stapled to it, our two passports, each with a spare photo inside, a postal money order for $90, a Priority Mail SASE and my business card with a short note of thanks on the back (this IS an Asian country).

The completed visas arrived today, Friday 7 July. ^

Did the exact same thing this year, except did not include the spare photo. This time mailed them USPS Priority on Friday, August 10, and got them back today, Friday, August 17.

vietnam visa cost

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

does anyone have any information to single or multiple entry visa cost for a native born? I hate when they try to play cost game. One has to call vietnam embassy (if you are lucky to get through phone maze) to inquire. It would be a lot easier if they charge one price for everyone. I think they have one price for vietnam born and another price for foreigners, not sure on this one.

I managed to get through last week and was proceeded to be harrassed by a vietnamese female for not speaking vietnamese. I ask the young lady if she can speak Spanish or Italian, of course she couldn't (well I'm fluent in Spanish, Italian and English); however, she continued to give me a tongue lashing for not speaking vietnamese fluently. Mean while, she works as a customer representative at US embassy in Washington, DC but couldn't speak proper english. How ironic.



Need to get a visa in the next 3 weeks.

vietnam visa cost

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

does anyone have any information to single or multiple entry visa cost for a native born? I hate when they try to play cost game. One has to call vietnam embassy (if you are lucky to get through phone maze) to inquire. It would be a lot easier if they charge one price for everyone. I think they have one price for vietnam born and another price for foreigners, not sure on this one.

I managed to get through last week and was proceeded to be harrassed by a vietnamese female for not speaking vietnamese. I ask the young lady if she can speak Spanish or Italian, of course she couldn't (well I'm fluent in Spanish, Italian and English); however, she continued to give me a tongue lashing for not speaking vietnamese fluently. Mean while, she works as a customer representative at US embassy in Washington, DC but couldn't speak proper english. How ironic.



Need to get a visa in the next 3 weeks.
the visa cost is exactly 30.00 for a vietnamese person born here or vietnam. the cost for an american is 60.00. you have to file the form with a return envelope. i have done hundreds of visas and they usually come back within 7 business days through san francisco. and yes the embassy never answers phonen calls! grr

Here's the response when I sent an e-mail to the embassy from their site....

DEAR APPLICANT:

THANK YOU FOR YOUR INTEREST IN VISITING VIETNAM AND FOR WRITING TO THE EMBASSY.

PLEASE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION ORGANIZED IN THE FORM OF Q&A'S.

1) DO I NEED A VISA?
- YES, YOU DO.
- TECHNICALLY, ANY HOLDER OF A VALID (6 MONTHS PRIOR TO EXPIRATION) PASSPORT OTHER THAN VIETNAMESE, NO MATTER WHAT CITIZENSHIP, NEEDS A VISA.
- THIS GENERAL RULE IS APPLICABLE TO US CITIZENS, CANADIAN CITIZENS, LATIN AMERICAN COUNTRIES, EU CITIZENS, AND JAPANESE CITIZENS.
- PLEASE CONTACT THE NEAREST VIETNAM EMBASSY FOR FURTHER INFORMATION IF YOU THINK YOUR COUNTRY AND VIETNAM HAVE A VISA-WAIVER AGREEMENT.

2) HOW EARLY AND HOW LATE CAN I APPLY FOR A VISA?
- YOU CAN APPLY FOR YOUR VISA AS EARLY AS SIX MONTHS PRIOR TO THE PROPOSED DATE OF ENTRY.
- YOU CAN APPLY FOR A VISA AS LATE AS A FEW DAYS PRIOR TO YOUR DEPARTURE. PLEASE CALL OR EMAIL THE EMBASSY TO CHECK YOUR OPTIONS FOR RUSH/EXPEDITED SERVICE.

3) HOW LONG WILL THE VISA BE GOOD FOR?
- THE VISA WILL BE ISSUED ON THE BASIS OF YOUR SPECIFIC PROPOSED DATES ON THE APPLICATION.
- THE APPLICANT CANNOT ENTER THE COUNTRY BEFORE THE DATE.

4) WHAT TO SUBMIT?
- PASSPORT.
- APPLICATION FORM (<http://www.vietnamembassy.us/consular_services/visa_info/>).
- 1 PASSPORT-SIZE PICTURE (2X2).
- FEE (2 MONEY ORDERS PER APPLICATION PACKAGE), PAYABLE TO "EMBASSY OF VIETNAM." APPLICANTS APPLYING TOGETHER MAY SUBMIT THE FEE IN ONE MONEY ORDER.
- A SELF-ADDRESSED POSTAGE-PAID RETURN ENVELOPE. FOR THE SAFETY OF YOUR PASSPORT(S), PLEASE USE ONLY ONE OF THE FOLLOWING MAILING SERVICES WHICH PROVIDE TRACKING NUMBERS: US EXPRESS MAIL OR CERTIFIED MAIL WITH FULL LABEL. PLEASE DO NOT USE OTHER MAILING SERVICES. APPLICANTS APPLYING TOGETHER MAY PROVIDE ONE ENVELOPE FOR VISAS TO BE RETURNED TO THE SAME ADDRESS.

5) HOW TO FILL OUT THE APPLICATION?
- ALL ITEMS MUST BE FILLED-OUT COMPLETELY IN UPPER CASE LETTERS.
- DO NOT USE PO BOX ADDRESSES.
- ITEM 11 (NAME, ADDRESS OF YOUR CONTACT IN VIETNAM) IS REQUIRED FOR "BUSINESS TRIPS" ONLY.
- PUT YOUR TOWN/CITY ON THE LINE "PLACE" AT THE END OF THE FORM.

6) WHAT IS THE FEE?
WITHOUT A PRIOR AUTHORIZATION/APPROVAL:
-SINGLE ENTRY, ONE-MONTH:
- $65.00 (REGULAR SERVICE - 5-7 BUSINESS DAYS).
- $85.00 (RUSH SERVICE - 02-3 WORKING DAYS).

7) HOW TO PAY THE FEE?
PLEASE PREPARE TWO MONEY ORDERS PAYABLE TO "THE EMBASSY OF VIETNAM" AS FOLLOWS:

-SINGLE ENTRY, ONE-MONTH, REGULAR SERVICE:
- ONE MONEY ORDER OF $25.00 (MEMO LINE: VISA FEE).
- ONE MONEY ORDER OF $40.00 (MEMO LINE: REGULAR PROCESSING FEE).

-SINGLE ENTRY, ONE-MONTH, RUSH SERVICE:
- ONE MONEY ORDER OF $25.00 (MEMO LINE: VISA FEE).
- ONE MONEY ORDER OF $60.00 (MEMO LINE: RUSH PROCESSING FEE).

NOTE: ONE GROUP APPLYING TOGETHER CAN TURN IN TWO MONEY ORDERS (ONE FOR THE VISA FEE AND THE OTHER FOR THE PROCESSING FEE) FOR THE ENTIRE GROUP.

8) HOW TO SUBMIT?
- HOURS FOR DROP-OFF AND WALK-IN AT THE EMBASSY: 9:30-12:00 (MONDAY-FRIDAY)
- BY MAIL:
FOR THE SAFETY OF YOUR PAPER(S), PLEASE ONLY USE ONE OF THE FOLLOWING MAILING SERVICES WHICH PROVIDE TRACKING NUMBERS:
- EXPRESS MAIL (WWW.USPS.COM <HTTP://WWW.USPS.COM>)
- CERTIFIED MAIL WITH FULL LABEL
PLEASE DO NOT USE OTHER MAILING SERVICES. APPLICANTS APPLYING TOGETHER MAY PROVIDE ONE ENVELOPE FOR VISAS TO BE RETURNED TO THE SAME ADDRESS.

9) WHERE TO SUBMIT?
CONSULAR SECTION
EMBASSY OF VIETNAM
1233 20TH STREET, NW
SUITE 400
WASHINGTON, DC 20036

10) IMMUNIZATION?
- NO INFORMATION AVAILABLE NOW, AND IT IS NOT REQUIRED.

11) CAN I GET A VISA AT THE AIRPORT?
- WITHOUT A PROPER ENTRY VISA, AIRLINERS WILL NOT ALLOW THE PASSENGER TO BOARD.
- PLEASE USE THE 2-DAY PROCEDURE DESIGNED TO ASSIST APPLICANTS UNDER TIME PRESSURE.

WE HOPE ALL YOU WANTED TO KNOW HAVE BEEN ANSWERED.

IF YOU STILL HAVE FURTHER QUESTIONS, PLEASE EMAIL TO THE EMBASSY AT CONSULAR@VIETNAMEMBASSY.US

THE EMBASSY WILL BE CLOSED FROM FEBRUARY 16 TO FEBRUARY 21, 2007 IN OBSERVANCE OF THE VIETNAMESE LUNAR NEW YEAR .

THE EMBASSY WILL BE OPEN AGAIN ON FEBRUARY 22, 2007

REGARDS,
that is crap! everyone gets different rates!? ugh!

See also my reply (post #9) in:
http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=729257

aznluv82482: Do you know anything about this policy change and whether its still going ahead?

I dropped off my passport for a visa at the Consulate in DC. I had a visa back in 2005, so I was hoping it would only be $45. They still wanted the $65.

The clerk was willing to take cash to cover the additional $20. I wonder where that $20 went?:rolleyes:

Were you able to pick it up the next day? I need to do the same at the Embassy

Were you able to pick it up the next day? I need to do the same at the Embassy

I think there is a rush fee, but I'm sure it is doable. I saw an expediter returning one that was wrong and the clerk asked him to wait a few minutes while they fixed it. So it can be done quickly, but I'm not sure what it will take. They are only open until 12 or 1, so getting there early, may increase your chances of a quick turnaround.

I have just applied for a visa - and await receipt.

The costs:

£38 for the visa
£4 (less small change) for the cost of a postal order - cheques not accepted
£1.10 for recorded delivery postage - compulsory even though it's worthless
£5 for return postage - Embassy sets the fee
£5 for the photos - although I get to keep 3 of them - yippee

All for three days in Vietnam.

I have just applied for a visa - and await receipt.

The costs:

£38 for the visa
£4 (less small change) for the cost of a postal order - cheques not accepted
£1.10 for recorded delivery postage - compulsory even though it's worthless
£5 for return postage - Embassy sets the fee
£5 for the photos - although I get to keep 3 of them - yippee

All for three days in Vietnam.

Yes... the London embassy is a particular rip-off. At least when I last went in there, they'd changed their receptionist to someone who was more friendly. I doubt if she'll last.

Its even worse for people who have the audacity to try for two entries... increasingly people do that. (Open jaw LHR/SGN, SGN/LHR, overland SGN to Cambodia, then Laos, then back to Hanoi...).

Another £38.... kerchink! (actually its cheaper to arrange once in VN... but who wants to mess around once there...)

The £38 is US$55 converted at an ancient exchange rate....

But have a good trip, and try not to judge VN by its embassy. It is a blast from the past in many ways and the worst possible introduction to their country.

I have just applied for a visa - and await receipt.

The costs:

£38 for the visa
£4 (less small change) for the cost of a postal order - cheques not accepted
£1.10 for recorded delivery postage - compulsory even though it's worthless
£5 for return postage - Embassy sets the fee
£5 for the photos - although I get to keep 3 of them - yippee

All for three days in Vietnam.

I don't know how you got informed they don't accept cheques, as I always pay by cheque and have done for the last 7 years. I just applied for another 3month multiple entry visa last week and just sent a cheque as usual. I also send my own special delivery envelope. I send via special delivery as well as I would not risk sending my Passport recorded delivery only.

I believe there have been discussions to remove the visa requirement for British passport holders but I wouldn't expect it to happen any time soon.

As jimbo99 says, don't judge the place by the embassy. Even for three days it's an absolute bargain for such a wonderful country.

I don't know how you got informed they don't accept cheques, as I always pay by cheque and have done for the last 7 years. I just applied for another 3month multiple entry visa last week and just sent a cheque as usual.

Ah.... now I remember overhearing a conversation. Can't remember the detail.. but the "rule" was either they would take business cheques only, or they would take cheques for business visas. Can't remember which... and anyway its possibly changed. Since when I'm in the UK I'm in London, I go in personally and pay cash. Incidentally, tourists pay on application, business people pay on collection of the visa. They can also do business visas while-u-wait if its been approved in VN before.

MAN Flyer.. how much do they charge you for a 3 month visa? I usually get a 6 month one - think I pay £55 for "next day" service, £60 for while-u-wait. (Its pre-approved in VN.)

I believe there have been discussions to remove the visa requirement for British passport holders but I wouldn't expect it to happen any time soon.

Yep... but at the moment it seems to be a case-by-case basis according to country. The last I heard is they are all annoyed at the hassle VN citizens are put through to get UK visas... meaning they have no problems putting UK people through the mill. Don't want to get into the discussion of the relevance of reciprocity - but some of my Saigon business friends get told to take a 2 hour flight to Hanoi just for an interview - only to be told on arrival that its been approved and isn't necessary... They really have little sympathy for us having to pay £38 (+whatever) for a visa which is granted pretty much automatically. The fact that tourists might bypass the country altogether and go to Thailand etc instead doesn't bother them.

As jimbo99 says, don't judge the place by the embassy. Even for three days it's an absolute bargain for such a wonderful country.
I'm sure I'll have fun, and obviously I thought the costs looked OK or I wouldn't have paid.

Incidentally, I can't see the point in paying for registered delivery for a passport. Recorded and registered get taken by the same postal system, and the hassle if it goes missing is the same, whichever postage you used. If I had a free choice, I'd just send it in ordinary second class post.

MAN Flyer.. how much do they charge you for a 3 month visa? I usually get a 6 month one - think I pay £55 for "next day" service, £60 for while-u-wait. (Its pre-approved in VN.)



I pay £90 for a 3 month multiple entry or £110 for it done 'express' like I had to do with the last one. The standard single entry visas are £38 for normal or £55 for express.

I know there have been discussions on lifting it, and I believe they attempted to dangle a carrot in the shape of lifting the visa requirement for Brits in exchange for slots at LHR for VN. :)

While it is a bit of a PITA and the costs mount up, it's probably a price worth paying to keep the drunken hordes in Thailand and leave Vietnam to grow slowly.

A visa costs S$100 if you apply for it in/from Singapore.

I need three visas for the family for a stop in Vietnam. I have used the SF consulate via mail in the past for my business visas, but this will be for a single entry tourist visa.

I saw several "visa on arrival" sites on google offering a $20 fee to the service per visa plus a $25 "stamp" fee when you arrive in Ho Chi Minh.

I was wondering what is the better and hopefully cheaper option: dealing with the SF consulate (also have no idea what the cost is) or doing the visa on arrival?

Thanks.

I need three visas for the family for a stop in Vietnam. I have used the SF consulate via mail in the past for my business visas, but this will be for a single entry tourist visa.

I saw several "visa on arrival" sites on google offering a $20 fee to the service per visa plus a $25 "stamp" fee when you arrive in Ho Chi Minh.

I was wondering what is the better and hopefully cheaper option: dealing with the SF consulate (also have no idea what the cost is) or doing the visa on arrival?

Thanks.

I would just use a pre-arranged Visa service like VietnamStay. Very easy and hassle free. I believe the cost through SF Consulate now is around $65.

http://www.vietnamstay.com/service/

I need three visas for the family for a stop in Vietnam. I have used the SF consulate via mail in the past for my business visas, but this will be for a single entry tourist visa.

I saw several "visa on arrival" sites on google offering a $20 fee to the service per visa plus a $25 "stamp" fee when you arrive in Ho Chi Minh.

I was wondering what is the better and hopefully cheaper option: dealing with the SF consulate (also have no idea what the cost is) or doing the visa on arrival?

Thanks.

If it helps, I just received my visa from the DC embassy this past weekend. I used USPS express mail to and from the embassy. I sent it on Monday and received my passport with visa on Saturday the same week. $65 for a single entry 30 day visa.

(An additional note since I've seen some discussion here regarding the cost of first vs. subsequent Vietnamese visas: this is my third visa to Vietnam. I didn't ask about the possibility of a discount, and none was offered.)

(An additional note since I've seen some discussion here regarding the cost of first vs. subsequent Vietnamese visas: this is my third visa to Vietnam. I didn't ask about the possibility of a discount, and none was offered.)

Hi welcome to the group! I've probably had 10-15 visa to Vietnam over recent years. No discount. In fact, I reckon some officials I know are more likely to "up the price" on the basis it seems you need to go there. A while back it was the case for people renewing business visas in Vietnam that successive in-country renewals became more expensive.

Hi welcome to the group! I've probably had 10-15 visa to Vietnam over recent years. No discount. In fact, I reckon some officials I know are more likely to "up the price" on the basis it seems you need to go there. A while back it was the case for people renewing business visas in Vietnam that successive in-country renewals became more expensive.

Thanks! It's been quite the education reading through various threads so far.

Vietnamese visas might not be the cheapest. But of the countries I've visited where I was able to get the visa myself (as opposed to needing to deal with a visa service), it's certainly the most efficient at issuing them. 5 days for an embassy isn't bad.

Thanks! It's been quite the education reading through various threads so far.

Vietnamese visas might not be the cheapest. But of the countries I've visited where I was able to get the visa myself (as opposed to needing to deal with a visa service), it's certainly the most efficient at issuing them. 5 days for an embassy isn't bad.

The efficiency stops there :D

The day before yesterday I walked over to the Vietnam Mission to the United Nations. The cost for a single-entry visa for one person was US$75. I was able to pay by personal check. Passport pickup is exactly one week (7 calendar days) later.

Is it possible for us to apply for a Vietnam visa while in Shanghai? If so, does anyone have any idea as to how fast they will process it? How much it will cost? Where I might find an application form?

It is probable that my experience is dependent on the facts that I had an invitation to an Olympic Qualification event in Vietnam and a US passport but...

Last November I simply arrived in HCMC, paid a small fee, and received my visa on the spot. Of course there may be some waiting involved if there is a long line but I was lucky and was able to go through very quickly.

I visited Vietnam a couple years ago, also by invitation, and could have received the visa on the spot but had already gone to the expense of getting one while still in the states.

In neither case were visas checked while boarding flights out of Korea. I can't speak to whether one must have a visa to board a direct flight from the US.

It is my understanding that all US citizens and those from a number of other countries who are traveling to Vietnam for tourism could do the same thing but I can't promise that is the case. Given some of the fees I've seen posted here it is probably worth checking out!;)

It is probable that my experience is dependent on the facts that I had an invitation to an Olympic Qualification event in Vietnam and a US passport but...

Last November I simply arrived in HCMC, paid a small fee, and received my visa on the spot. Of course there may be some waiting involved if there is a long line but I was lucky and was able to go through very quickly.

I visited Vietnam a couple years ago, also by invitation, and could have received the visa on the spot but had already gone to the expense of getting one while still in the states.

In neither case were visas checked while boarding flights out of Korea. I can't speak to whether one must have a visa to board a direct flight from the US.

It is my understanding that all US citizens and those from a number of other countries who are traveling to Vietnam for tourism could do the same thing but I can't promise that is the case. Given some of the fees I've seen posted here it is probably worth checking out!;)

You can't just receive a Visa on the spot in Vietnam. A "pre-arranged" Visa must be arranged with a local travel agent. A letter is sent showing that the Visa is waiting for you at one of the 3 international airports in Vietnam. You need this to prove to the airline you have a Visa in order to board the plane (all airlines are supposed to check this as they get fined if someone arrives in VN without a Visa). You pay $25 (in USD) and the Visa is added into your passport.

There is no Visa on Arrival in Vietnam.

As one who has used both a conventional visa in advance in my passport and also the visa on arrival services, please be advised that the Visa on arrival is not accepted at some China airports (ie. Guongzhou). I also had significant difficulty boarding one of the ferries in China that arrives at HKG airport on the airside part of the airport with the Visa on arrival document printed. They kept on insisting it was not valid documentation. Finally they relented.

As one who has used both a conventional visa in advance in my passport and also the visa on arrival services, please be advised that the Visa on arrival is not accepted at some China airports (ie. Guongzhou). I also had significant difficulty boarding one of the ferries in China that arrives at HKG airport on the airside part of the airport with the Visa on arrival document printed. They kept on insisting it was not valid documentation. Finally they relented.

The last time Vietnam was part of China (or ruled by China) was more than a thousand years ago ;)

Thanks for your enlightening clarification on geography. My point was that the pre-arranged Visa for Vietnam is not accepted from all embarkation points, particularly in China on flights from China to Vietnam.

Does anyone have an idea what the current visa fee is for Vietnam in the US?

Does anyone have an idea what the current visa fee is for Vietnam in the US?

I got my visa (single entry, 30 days) last month for $65. Sent my application and passport with money order priority overnight Fedex on Thursday and got it back following Wednesday also via priority overnight.

I got my visa (single entry, 30 days) last month for $65. Sent my application and passport with money order priority overnight Fedex on Thursday and got it back following Wednesday also via priority overnight.

Thanks. It took two emails, but I finally got this confirmed by the embassy: MULTIPLE ENTRIES:
- ONE MONTH: $130.00/ EACH PERSON -$40.00 IS VISA FEE, $90.00 IS ONE-MONTH-MULTI-ENTRIES PROCESSING FEE AND THE TOTAL FEE IS $130 (02-3 BUSINESS DAYS).

Now I just have to figure out what it is in Japan.

I went in this past Thurs to the UN Mission in NYC. We're leaving for Asia on the fri/27th, so technically the regular "7 day" visa would have been ok for us, as the nice gentleman behind the glass kept saying. However, during our discussion, a guy came in looking for his visa to pick up and the embassy rep said "fedex can't land today - bad weather, come back tomorrow maybe". So I asked him what I do if the visa is only one day late? (I couldn't imagine applying for this in Beijing, which is the first stop in our itinerary). Anyway, he told me for $105 ($75+$30 expediting), I could have a landing visa the next morning. Essentially, it was simply a letter from Vietnam stating that our visa would be waiting for us. Looked good enough for me, and I assume it will be for the air asia reps in KUL which is where we'll depart for HAN from.

Gotta say, it sure is nice and calm getting the visa at the UN mission vs dealing with the crazy Chinese embassy on 12th Ave.

Thanks. It took two emails, but I finally got this confirmed by the embassy: MULTIPLE ENTRIES:
- ONE MONTH: $130.00/ EACH PERSON -$40.00 IS VISA FEE, $90.00 IS ONE-MONTH-MULTI-ENTRIES PROCESSING FEE AND THE TOTAL FEE IS $130 (02-3 BUSINESS DAYS).

Now I just have to figure out what it is in Japan.

So I got my Visa in Japan, and it was extremely quick and easy. The embassy does same day processing if you visit them in person and next day if you mail your paperwork in. My 1 month multiple-entry visa cost only 8,000 here in Japan. Quite the discount over the states as it cost my father over $150 including shipping.

After a previous post enquiring about "pre-arranged" visa on arrival,
one reply discouraged the idea.

But it seems there are now a number of organizations
that will do it for $25+$25,
and my passport never has to be out of my hands.

Anybody able to recommend a "pre-arranged visa on arrival"
arranging service that worked well recently?

I did my Visa on Arrival with Vietnamstay. They were quick; I had my letter within 24 hours - it was $55 I believe; which to me didn't seem bad compared to FEDEX costs back and forth and no passport out of my hands. They were pleasant to deal with and I have zero complaints. My husband gave me their info - not sure where he got it but it worked for me. http://www.vietnamstay.com/service/

I did my Visa on Arrival with Vietnamstay. They were quick; I had my letter within 24 hours Thanks very much, I'll go with that one....

I'm looking for the latest information about getting a tourist visa from the SF consulate. How much is the current rate, for single and multiple entries? I see references to ONE-MONTH, meaning the Visa is good for one month from date of issue or one month from date of arrival in Vietnam? Also how fast is the turnaround if I drop off and pick up in person? I'll need to get my passport back the next day, or the day after at most. TIA

A couple of questions on this pre-arranged visa on arrival lark. First...is it definately acceptable? Second, should I get the letter will the SQ people at Changi accept it for boarding?

Had a few horrow stories about applying to the Vietnam Embassy in Lodnon by post so would rather not do it.....

Thanks all.

Wanted to add a recent data point. I dropped off my passport at the Vietnam Mission at the UN in New York yesterday and it was $75. They accept personal checks and cash, although the website said only cashiers checks and money orders.

So... any updates recently on folks who did the pre arranged Visa? I've got some international plans between now and my trip to Vietnam at the end of Sept. and would prefer to not part with my passport with such a time crunch. I would hate to risk not getting the passport back before I need it for my 2 other trips, once which needs a visa. All the guidebooks really don't recommend the pre arranged avenue.

Also... is the visa validity like the India visa? Good from the date of processing, or is it 30 days from arrival?


Thanks.

If you are in Singapore it is possible to get a visa in a few days without leaving your passport. PM if this is of interest.

Vietnam visa is valid from the date of entry shown on the visa. Not before. Form asks for your entry date. That is the first day of validity.

If you are leaving the country to for example Siem Riep get a double entry.

I used www.myvietnamvisa.com to get a Visa on Arrival letter. I sent them my travel and passport details, and it took them 48 hours to issue me a letter. I paid $24, including credit card fees.

I had given them my flight details- looking at the letter again, it's good for an entry to Vietnam for up to 1 month after my original flight date.

I presented the Visa letter at the Visa on Arrival desk, and paid $25, and got a 1 entry, one month visa. They also do longer term visas as well.

I've got no affiliation with this site, but thought they did a good job with confirmations, turnaround time, etc. They also take credit cards (some of the sites don't), which I wanted, because I wanted to be able to dispute the charge if nothing came through.

Others have reported problems at departure because you don't have a visa in your passport. However, the letter you get looks very official, and plainly states that the Immigration Dept is granting you permission to enter Vietnam and pick up your visa on arrival. I didn't have any problem at the check in counter.

Friendly

Can anyone tell me the current consular fee for mailing my passport to the Embassy in Washington, DC? I've been emailing them and calling them with no response as of yet.

Also, I considered contacting the consulate in SF, but the website set up for them is not legitimate.

The website for the SF Consulate is "legitimate". Just used them for a one year multiple entry tourist visa. The fee is $170 and the turn around was less than one week.

The website for the SF Consulate is "legitimate". Just used them for a one year multiple entry tourist visa. The fee is $170 and the turn around was less than one week.

+ 1 ^

I have recently had a similar experience -- fast and efficient service at the S.F. Consulate.

The website for the SF Consulate is "legitimate". Just used them for a one year multiple entry tourist visa. The fee is $170 and the turn around was less than one week.

The first link that comes up in google has this:

http://www.vietnamconsulate-ca.org/vietnamvisa.htm

Unofficial website of Vietnam consulate in San Francisco, USA

Useful information about the consulate and how to get Visa to Vietnam.
Please visit official website of Vietnam consulate in San Francisco here: http://www.vietnamconsulatesf.org

The SF consulate says it is $85 for a single entry visa (US passport). Looks like you paid $49 for a visa on arrival?

I used www.myvietnamvisa.com to get a Visa on Arrival letter. I sent them my travel and passport details, and it took them 48 hours to issue me a letter. I paid $24, including credit card fees.

I had given them my flight details- looking at the letter again, it's good for an entry to Vietnam for up to 1 month after my original flight date.

I presented the Visa letter at the Visa on Arrival desk, and paid $25, and got a 1 entry, one month visa. They also do longer term visas as well.

I've got no affiliation with this site, but thought they did a good job with confirmations, turnaround time, etc. They also take credit cards (some of the sites don't), which I wanted, because I wanted to be able to dispute the charge if nothing came through.

Others have reported problems at departure because you don't have a visa in your passport. However, the letter you get looks very official, and plainly states that the Immigration Dept is granting you permission to enter Vietnam and pick up your visa on arrival. I didn't have any problem at the check in counter.

Friendly

I paid $21+$25 for a visa on arrival through myvietnamvisa.com. No complaints!

I think getting a visa on arrival is a little risky. Also foung that the tourist visa for multi-entry and 6 months stays have changed after August of this year. The SF consulate is fast and efficient, I usually just send it in, without using a service, and get it back in a few days. You need to fill the visa application out, use a pay vehicle besides cc or personal check, pay fed express, or other mailing service both ways. If you Google vietnam consulate sf you can get the forms. Enjoy the country. Always carry additonal passport photos, and make some copies of your visa and passport.

I think getting a visa on arrival is a little risky.

What's risky about it? Everything I've read says that it's fairly straightforward.

Have you not seen visa on arrivals denied, wait at the airport catch the next plane out to whatever destination,
the process is simple have it in your had avoid the hassle

Have you not seen visa on arrivals denied, wait at the airport catch the next plane out to whatever destination,
the process is simple have it in your had avoid the hassle

I've never seen it denied in VN. I've used a pre-arranged Visa several times without any issues.

If there's a problem with the Visa, then you won't be allowed on the flight to Vietnam.

Thanks for the assurance. I'm flying HKG-SGN next month and don't expect any issues with my Visa on Arrival but will report back!

The SF consulate says it is $85 for a single entry visa (US passport). Looks like you paid $49 for a visa on arrival?

The SF Consulate is noticeably more expensive than getting the Vietnam Visa elsewhere (for example in Laos) and much quicker to assess extra, unnecessary, fees.

Will go the visa on arrival route, doesn't seem like it has any issues ... and is $40 or so cheaper than the consular route ^

(Edited to add) Hmmmm ... just saw this other note, is there a potential wrinkle? :confused:

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/12673063-post8.html

The SF Consulate is noticeably more expensive than getting the Vietnam Visa elsewhere (for example in Laos) and much quicker to assess extra, unnecessary, fees.

I recently stayed for a few hours in Hanoi and accordingly was obliged to get a visa before going. As I happened to be in Japan, I got one there for Y6,000, around US$60.00. It was valid for a certain period indicated on the visa.

My Vietnam Airlines flight to Hanoi was delayed 6 hours and subsequently I missed the connecting flight to another nearby country, thus making it necessary for me to stay in Hanoi overnight (compliments of VA, grudgingly). The problem was I had a visa for a stopover en route home, not going, and had to go through great confusion getting a temporary visa for the one night at Noiboi, where I was treated with suspicion and rudeness. To make a long story short, they used the visa I had for the later period (stamping it used when I left), which meant I needed to get another tourist visa at a Vietnamese consulate in the country I was visiting, again dishing out around US$60.00 - for a 10 hour stopover. Vietnam Airlines has been totally indifferent about this inconvenience and the resultant expenses.

Anyway, be careful if you come from a country where they want a visa in advance. It can get tricky when planning connecting flights!

Please confirm if I get the Visa On Arrival procedures correct:

1. Get one of those agencies online and submit application and pay fee.
2. Receive an approval letter by email.
3. Show approval letter at check to get BP.
4. Show letter and submit 2 photos at Immigration and pay stamp fee.

Thanks!

I'm looking to get a visa in BKK - any idea of the timeframe? Do you have to leave your passport? (I've only done visas by mail before.)

I need to get Laos and Cambodia, too, but as I understand it, these are also available at the border, so it's the Vietnam one I'm worried about.

I'm looking to get a visa in BKK - any idea of the timeframe?

I am also interested in this and I tried to search around but did not find anything. I will have about 6 days in BKK, is there an easy way to get visa's for myself and my mom for Vietnam and Cambodia? No problem if I need to spend some Baht to get it done in a few days, just wondering the best place to do it in BKK. Thanks!

Just for the record, I just received my single entry visa from the Embassy in DC. I brought with me the application and two money orders totaling $65. In retrospect, one MO or cash would have been fine.

Expedited processing was an extra $20, and took 2 business days. Regular processing took 4 business days. Pretty painless.

visas on arrival available in cambodia and laos, highly advise you have vietnam in hand before arriving vietnam

1. Get one of those agencies online and submit application and pay fee.
2. Receive an approval letter by email.
3. Show approval letter at check to get BP.
4. Show letter and submit 2 photos at Immigration and pay stamp fee.

Correct. Seems like they actually only keep one photo (YMMV).

However, having used the Visa on Arrival (or rather: prearranged visa) procedure a couple of times now, I will say that it's not without problems (especially regarding your step #3). On the last trip we spent 30 minutes arguing with the CX staff at Kowloon Station. They had never seen the PDF file we received from the agency. There were multiple problems with the paperwork: Poor printout quality, illegible stamp and signature, about 30 names on the list, and the dates were off by a couple of days. Their database doesn't describe the prearranged visa process very clearly, and requires originals. IOW, checkin can be very dicey if you fly an airline that doesn't routinely see these forms.