You’ve got your flights booked, bags packed, and Vietnam on your mind – but there’s one last thing holding you back: “What about the visa?” Don’t stress. Thousands of US citizens fly into Hanoi every year and get their Vietnam landing visa without hassle. In this article, I’ll walk you through the exact process so you won’t have to worry when you land at Noi Bai Airport.

👋 Who Can Use a Landing Visa in 2025?

Great news—if you’re a US passport holder planning to travel to Vietnam in 2025, you’re eligible to apply for a landing visa. This option is available to air travellers only, and Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport is one of the designated entry points that issues this visa type.

That said, getting a landing visa isn’t something you can just sort out when you land. You’ll need to apply for a visa approval letter in advance. This letter is issued by Vietnam’s Immigration Department and gives you official permission to receive your visa at the airport.

Without this approval letter, airlines may prevent you from boarding your flight from the US. So while the final visa is handed to you on arrival, the process needs to begin before you leave home.

📝 How to Get Your Approval Letter in Advance

Securing your visa approval letter is quick and easy when you use a professional service. One of the most reliable platforms is Vietnam Immigration, which helps US travellers get their letters fast—sometimes in as little as 2 to 8 hours.

You’ll fill out a short online form, submit your travel details, and pay a small service fee. Once approved, the letter will be emailed to you. It’s best to print at least one copy (many travellers print two just in case) and pack it with your travel documents.

This approval letter is required for you to collect your landing visa when you arrive in Hanoi. Without it, you won’t be able to complete the process.

🛬 What Happens at the Landing Visa Counter in Hanoi?

After your flight arrives at Noi Bai Airport, follow the signs directing you to the Landing Visa counter. This desk is usually located near immigration, before passport control.

Once there, you’ll submit:

• Your printed visa approval letter
• A completed NA1 entry/exit form
• Two passport-sized photos (4×6 cm with a white background)
• Your valid passport
• The visa stamping fee in cash ($25 for single entry or $50 for multiple entry)

After reviewing your documents, the immigration officer will ask you to wait. Processing times usually range from 15 to 45 minutes, depending on the number of arrivals. When your visa is ready, you’ll receive your passport back with the visa sticker inside.

Before leaving the counter, double-check the details on your visa to ensure everything is correct.

🙅‍♂️ Rookie Mistakes That Delay Your Entry (And How to Avoid Them)

While the landing visa process is generally smooth, a few common missteps can trip you up. One big one? Not printing your visa approval letter. Immigration won’t accept a digital version—only hard copies are valid.

Another frequent issue is incorrect photo size or quality. Make sure your pictures are recent, the right dimensions (4×6 cm), and meet Vietnam’s requirements. It’s wise to pack extras.

Don’t forget that the stamping fee must be paid in cash. The landing visa desk does not accept credit cards, so bring US dollars or Vietnamese Dong with you before you fly.

Also, ensure that your approval letter, NA1 form, and passport information all match exactly. A typo or discrepancy can cause frustrating delays.

🙌 Want Zero Worries? Let Pros Handle It for You!

Not a fan of paperwork or rushing around? Let a visa professional handle the details. A service like Vietnam Immigration takes care of the application process from start to finish, verifying your documents and delivering your approval letter quickly and securely.

They’ve helped thousands of US travellers over the past 15 years, and their support team is available 24/7 to answer your questions. Whether you’re planning a vacation or a business trip, their service is a lifesaver.

Their fast turnaround times (as little as 2 hours) and guaranteed visa approval or your money back policy make them a top choice for stress-free travel.

✅ All Set for Takeoff—Just Don’t Forget the Landing Visa

You’ve already booked your trip, packed your essentials, and mapped out your itinerary. The only thing left? Your landing visa.

Now that you know exactly what to do, getting your visa at Hanoi Airport will be a breeze. Whether you handle the paperwork yourself or leave it to a pro like Vietnam Immigration, your Vietnam adventure is just a step away.

Have a great trip!