Most UAE residents must secure a visa or pre-approval before travelling to Vietnam. The proper pathway depends on your passport nationality, trip length and travel purpose, but in practice UAE residents commonly use the Vietnam e-Visa, a consulate (sticker) visa or a pre-approved visa-on-arrival letter. Pre-arranging your visa is the safest and fastest option to avoid boarding or entry problems.
Why pre-arranging a visa matters for UAE residents
Airlines and immigration expect correct documentation at check-in and on arrival. If you try to travel without the required visa or approval letter you may be denied boarding or refused entry. Because UAE-based travel schedules can be tight, pre-applying, either directly through the official Vietnam e-Visa portal or via a trusted UAE agent, reduces risk and makes travel smoother.
Visa options commonly used by UAE residents
- Vietnam e-Visa (recommended for many short trips)
- Applied for online through the official e-Visa portal or via an accredited agent.
- Typically valid for up to 30 days for single entry (confirm validity for your passport).
- Processing is usually completed within a few business days if documents are correct.
- Consulate (sticker) visa
- Required for some passport holders or longer/multiple-entry stays.
- Involves submission to the Vietnam Consulate in Dubai (or via an accredited service).
- Allows different durations and multi-entry options based on your request.
- Visa on Arrival (VOA) with approval letter
- You obtain an approval letter from Vietnamese immigration before travel and then get the sticker at selected airports on arrival.
- Often used for travellers whose travel plans need the convenience of airport stamping, but it requires a reliable sponsor and correct paperwork prior to departure.
Typical documents UAE residents should prepare
- Passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
- Copy of UAE residence visa and Emirates ID (to prove legal residency).
- Recent passport-size photo(s) with a white background.
- Confirmed return flight booking and hotel reservations (or host invitation).
- Bank statements or proof of sufficient funds.
- Employer NOC or trade license for self-employed travellers.
- For VOA: printed approval letter and photos for stamping on arrival.
Processing time and cost (typical estimates)
- Processing time: e-Visa usually takes a few business days; consulate visas generally take longer (allow at least 3–7 working days, more in peak times). Express options can shorten timelines.
- Estimated service cost: Many UAE-based assistance packages start from around 500 AED for e-Visa handling and basic support; consulate or expedited services may cost more depending on urgency and complexity.
How UAE residents should proceed (recommended steps)
- Check your passport’s eligibility on the official Vietnam e-Visa portal or contact the Vietnam Consulate in Dubai for confirmation.
- Choose the right visa path (e-Visa, consulate stamp or VOA with approval letter) based on length and purpose of stay.
- Gather documents: passport, UAE residence visa/Emirates ID, photos, flight and hotel bookings, bank proof and employer NOC if required.
- Apply through the official e-Visa site or a reputable UAE-based agent to avoid submission errors.
- Print and carry your visa/e-Visa approval/approval letter and a copy of your passport and Emirates ID while travelling.
Visa regulations can change. For the most reliable and up-to-date guidance, always verify requirements on the Vietnam e-Visa official website or with the Vietnam Consulate in Dubai before you travel. If you want help preparing and submitting the application quickly and accurately, professional services in the UAE typically handle everything for you starting from 500 AED, ensuring a lower risk of delays or rejections.