In response to the rapid spread of the Covid 19 virus all over the world, Vietnam has decided to temporarily stop issuing visas to foreign visitors. The country has also stopped allowing foreign visitors to enter even if they are part of the visa waiver program. This is to combat the spread of the deadly virus that has already killed thousands of people around the world.

But the suspension of visa is only temporary. Vietnam has once again decided to issue tourist visas to all foreign individuals including citizens of Iceland. Icelandic citizens are among those nationalities that need a visa to enter the country. They are qualified to avail of the e-visa, an electronic visa that they can apply online, and the visa on arrival, a visa sticker that they can get at the airport. Here’s everything you need to know about applying for the e-visa and visa on arrival for citizens of Iceland.

How Can Icelandic Citizens Apply for the Vietnam E-visa?

If you want an easy way of getting a visa to Vietnam, you should go for the e-visa. All you need to do is go online and follow the steps below:

1. Fill out the visa application form. Make sure you provide all the information that the website asks from you. Double-check the spelling before you proceed.
2. Upload the requirements. You need to submit a scanned copy of the bio page of your passport. If you don’t have this, you can take a photo of the page and upload it.
3. Next, be ready with your card to pay for the processing fee. You can use your visa or PayPal to pay for this. Submit the payment and wait for confirmation that your visa is already being processed.
4. After a couple of days, you’ll receive an email to inform you of your e-visa status. In it, you will find instructions on how you can download a copy of the visa. Download the PDF copy and print it out.

How Can Icelandic Citizens Apply for the Vietnam Visa on Arrival

If the multiple-entry visa is a better option for you, then you are required to register for this visa ahead of time. You will be given a pre-approval letter after you register and you need to present this at the visa counter to get a visa sticker. Here’s how you can get the visa on arrival.

1. Fill out the application form online with your name, nationality, and other important details. Review everything before you submit.
2. After a few days, they will email you your pre-approval letter. Along with the letter is a blank application form that you need to print as well. Fill out the application form.
3. Upon arriving in Vietnam, proceed to the Visa Landing counter. Give the letter, application form, your passport-sized photos, and passport. Pay $25 for the visa-stamping fee. You will then be asked to wait while they process your visa.

4. After a while, you will be called back to the counter. The officer will give your passport back, which already has a visa sticker in it.

What’s The Best Vietnam Visa for Citizens of Iceland?

Icelandic citizens can use either the e-visa or visa on arrival for their trip to Vietnam. But what would be the best to apply?

This will actually depend on your answer to these questions. How many days do you plan to stay in Vietnam? Do you need a single entry or multiple entry visas? Which point of entry will you be passing through?

For Icelandic visitors who will be staying in Vietnam for only 30 days or less, the e-visa should be fine. This visa can also be used at various points of entry, from airports, land borders, and seaports. But take note that this visa is only ideal for a single entry.

If you want a multiple entry visa, then you should go for the visa on arrival. This visa will let you choose a multiple entry option and with a stay of up to 90 days. But take note that this visa can only be claimed at Vietnam airports.

When Should You Apply for your Visa?

You are advised to apply for your Vietnam visa at least two weeks before your trip. If you are traveling next month, it is best that you apply now. Since Vietnam just resumed the visa issuance after suspending it from March 2020, they are expecting to receive tons of visa applications soon. So to avoid delay, you better apply for the visa as early as possible. But for those who need to leave for Vietnam in the next few days, the rush processing is highly recommended. For an added fee, you could get your visa in as fast as 24 hours!