Vietnam visa for Kenya citizens
Understanding Vietnam Visa Requirements for Kenyan Citizens
For all Kenyan passport holders, securing a valid visa is a mandatory step before traveling to Vietnam. This applies whether your visit is for leisure, business, or any other purpose. Fortunately, the process has been streamlined with the availability of the Vietnam e-visa, offering a convenient online application method.
The Vietnam E-visa for Kenyan Travelers
The Vietnam e-visa is an electronic authorization that allows eligible foreign nationals, including those from Kenya, to enter Vietnam. It is valid for up to 90 days and can be issued for either a single entry or multiple entries, providing flexibility for your travel plans.
Types of Visas Available
While the e-visa is the most popular option, other types of visas may be available depending on your specific circumstances, such as visas for visiting relatives. The e-visa specifically caters to short-term stays for tourism or general business activities, available in these common durations:
- 30 days, single entry
- 30 days, multiple entry
- 90 days, single entry
- 90 days, multiple entries
How to Apply for Your Vietnam E-visa
Kenyan citizens have two primary ways to apply for a Vietnam e-visa:
- Directly through the official Vietnamese government website: This allows you to complete the application yourself, submit documents, and pay the government fee directly.
- Through a reputable online visa service provider: Many travelers opt for this method for assistance with the application process, often benefiting from expert guidance and potentially faster processing options.
General Steps for E-visa Application:
- Complete the Application Form: Fill out the online visa application form with accurate personal and travel details.
- Upload Required Documents: Submit digital copies of your passport's personal details page and a recent portrait photo.
- Make Payment: Pay the applicable visa fee using a credit or debit card.
- Receive E-visa: Once approved, your e-visa letter will be sent to your registered email address within the specified processing time.
- Print and Present: Download and print your e-visa letter to present to Vietnamese Immigration Officers upon your arrival.
Important Considerations for E-visa Holders
When traveling with an e-visa, it's crucial to be aware of the following:
- Designated Entry Ports: You must enter Vietnam at the exact port of entry specified on your e-visa. Attempting to enter at an unlisted port may result in refusal of entry.
- No Extensions: Generally, e-visas cannot be extended while you are in Vietnam. If you need to stay longer, you might have to leave the country and apply for a new visa.
- Entry Date Flexibility: You can enter Vietnam on any date between the "arrival date" and "exit date" indicated on your e-visa. However, you cannot enter before the specified arrival date.
Approved Ports of Entry for Vietnam E-visa
The Vietnam e-visa is valid for entry at various international airports, land border gates, and seaports. Here is a comprehensive list:
Airports:
- Noi Bai Airport (Hanoi)
- Tan Son Nhat Airport (Ho Chi Minh City)
- Cam Ranh Airport (Khanh Hoa)
- Da Nang Airport (Da Nang)
- Cat Bi Airport (Hai Phong)
- Can Tho Airport (Can Tho)
- Phu Quoc Airport (Kien Giang)
- Phu Bai Airport (Thua Thien Hue)
- Van Don Airport (Quang Ninh)
- Tho Xuan Airport (Thanh Hoa)
- Dong Hoi Airport (Quang Binh)
- Phu Cat Airport (Binh Dinh)
- Lien Khuong Airport (Lam Dong)
- Long Thanh Airport (Dong Nai)
- Gia Binh Airport
- Vinh Airport
- Chu Lai Airport
Landports:
- Tay Trang Border Gate (Dien Bien)
- Mong Cai Border Gate (Quang Ninh)
- Huu Nghi Border Gate (Lang Son)
- Lao Cai Border Gate (Lao Cai)
- Na Meo Border Gate (Thanh Hoa)
- Nam Can Border Gate (Nghe An)
- Cau Treo Border Gate (Ha Tinh)
- Cha Lo Border Gate (Quang Binh)
- La Lay Border Gate (Quang Tri)
- Lao Bao Border Gate (Quang Tri)
- Bo Y Border Gate (Kon Tum)
- Moc Bai Border Gate (Tay Ninh)
- Xa Mat Border Gate (Tay Ninh)
- Tinh Bien Border Gate (An Giang)
- Vinh Xuong Land and Waterway Border Gate (An Giang)
- Ha Tien Border Gate (Kien Giang)
- Dong Dang (Railway) Border Gate (Lang Son)
- Lao Cai (Railway) Border Gate (Lao Cai)
- Tra Tinh Border Gate (Cao Bang)
- Long Sap Border Gate (Son La)
- Nam Giang Border Gate (Da Nang)
- Le Thanh Border Gate (Gia Lai)
- Binh Hiep Border Gate (Tay Ninh)
- Thuong Phuoc Border Gate (Dong Thap)
- Dinh Ba Border Gate (Dong Thap)
- Tan Nam Border Gate (Tay Ninh)
- Thanh Thuy Border Gate (Tuyen Quang)
Seaports:
- Chan May Seaport (Thua Thien Hue)
- Cam Pha Seaport (Quang Ninh)
- Da Nang Seaport (Da Nang)
- Duong Dong Seaport (Kien Giang)
- Vung Ang Seaport (Ha Tinh)
- Dung Quat Seaport (Quang Ngai)
- Hai Phong Seaport
- Nghi Son Seaport (Thanh Hoa)
- Nha Trang Seaport (Khanh Hoa)
- Ho Chi Minh Seaport (HCMC)
- Vung Tau Seaport
- Van Gia Seaport (Quang Ninh)
- Diem Dien Seaport (Hung Yen)
- Hai Thinh Seaport (Ninh Binh)
- Cua Lo Seaport (Nghe An)
- Ninh Binh Seaport (Ninh Binh)
- Son Duong Seaport (Ha Tinh)
- Giang Seaport (Quang Tri)
- Hon La Seaport (Quang Tri)
- Cua Viet Seaport (Quang Tri)
- Thuan An Seaport (Hue)
- Ky Ha Seaport (Da Nang)
- Sa Ky Seaport (Quang Ngai)
- Vung Ro Seaport (Dak Lak)
- Ca Na Seaport (Khanh Hoa)
- Ninh Chu Seaport (Khanh Hoa)
- Phu Quy Seaport (Lam Dong)
- Lien Huong Seaport (Lam Dong)
- Ben Luc Seaport (Tay Ninh)
- Dong Thap Seaport (Dong Thap)
- Soai Rap Seaport (Dong Thap)
- My Thoi Seaport (An Giang)
- Hon Chong Seaport (An Giang)
- An Thoi Seaport (An Giang)
- Truong Long Hoa Seaport (Vinh Long)
- Giao Long Seaport (Vinh Long)
- Nam Can Seaport (Ca Mau)
- Hon Gia Seaport (Quang Ninh)
Tips for a Smooth Visa Application
To ensure a hassle-free Vietnam visa application process:
- Apply Early: Submit your application well in advance of your travel date, ideally at least two weeks prior, to allow for processing time and any unforeseen delays.
- Verify Requirements: Double-check all necessary documents and eligibility criteria before starting your application.
- Accuracy is Key: Ensure all information provided in your application form is accurate and precisely matches the details in your passport.
- Follow Instructions: Adhere strictly to all instructions for document submission and payment.
- Monitor Status: Keep an eye on your application status and be prepared to provide additional information if requested by the authorities.
Always remember to verify the most current visa requirements and policies directly with the official Vietnamese immigration authorities or your nearest Vietnamese embassy/consulate before finalizing your travel plans.
Tourist visa — Kenya
The Vietnam e-visa is a suitable option for Kenyan citizens traveling for tourism. This electronic visa allows for stays of up to 90 days and can be issued for either single or multiple entries. The application process is entirely online, requiring applicants to submit digital copies of their passport and a recent photograph, along with personal details. Once approved, the e-visa is sent to the applicant's email, which should be printed and presented upon arrival in Vietnam. It is crucial to select the correct entry and exit ports during the application, as entry may be denied if these do not match the e-visa details. Always verify the latest requirements and approved entry points with official Vietnamese immigration authorities.
Business visa — Kenya
Kenyan citizens traveling to Vietnam for business purposes are also required to obtain a visa. The Vietnam e-visa can accommodate certain business travel needs, offering validity for up to 90 days with single or multiple entries. Applicants will follow a similar online process as tourist visa applicants, submitting their passport details and a photograph. While the e-visa covers many business-related visits, for longer stays or specific business activities, it is advisable to consult with the Vietnamese embassy or consulate for alternative visa options. Ensure all details on your e-visa application, especially the intended entry/exit ports, are accurate to facilitate a smooth entry into Vietnam.
Vietnam visa fees & costs
Vietnam E-visa Fees and Processing Times for Kenyan Citizens
The cost and processing time for a Vietnam e-visa can vary depending on whether you apply directly through official government channels or utilize a visa service provider.
Official E-visa Fees (Self-Application)
When applying for the e-visa directly via the official Vietnamese immigration portal, the fees are typically:
- Single entry visa: US $25
- Multiple entry visa: US $50
Please note that these fees are subject to change by the Vietnamese government. Always check the official website for the most current pricing.
Official E-visa Processing Times (Self-Application)
The processing time for e-visa applications submitted directly to the official authority generally follows this distribution:
| Processing Time | Percentage of Applicants |
|---|---|
| Less than 3 working days | 5% |
| 3 - 5 working days | 75% |
| More than 5 working days | 20% |
These are general estimates, and actual processing times may vary. It is highly recommended to apply well in advance of your travel date.
Service Provider Fees and Processing Times
If you choose to apply for your Vietnam e-visa through a private visa service provider, their fees and processing times will include their service charge in addition to the government fee. These services often offer expedited processing options.
| Visa Type | Processing Time Options | Estimated Service Fee (USD/Pax) |
|---|---|---|
| 30-day single entry | 5-10 working days | ~55 |
| 4 working days | ~95 | |
| 30-day multiple entry | 5-10 working days | ~85 |
| 4 working days | ~125 | |
| 90-day single entry | 5-10 working days | ~85 |
| 4 working days | ~125 | |
| 90-day multiple entry | 5-10 working days | ~125 |
| 4 working days | ~165 |
Note: The fees listed for service providers are indicative and can vary based on the provider, number of applicants, and urgency of the service. Always confirm the exact costs and processing guarantees directly with your chosen service provider.
It is always advisable to apply for your visa well in advance of your travel dates to avoid any last-minute complications.
Frequently asked questions
Do Kenyan Citizens Need a Visa for Vietnam?
Yes, all Kenyan passport holders are required to obtain a valid visa to enter Vietnam, whether for tourism, business, or any other purpose.
Can Kenyan Citizens Apply for a Vietnam E-visa?
Yes, Kenyan citizens are eligible to apply for the Vietnam e-visa. This can be done either directly through the official Vietnamese immigration website or with the assistance of a reputable visa service provider.
What Types of Vietnam Visas Are Available for Kenyans?
For Kenyan citizens, the most common and accessible type is the e-visa, which can be for single or multiple entries, valid for up to 90 days. Other visa types might be available depending on your purpose of visit (e.g., relative visit) or duration, but the e-visa is generally the most straightforward for short-term travel.
What are the Requirements for a Vietnam E-visa for Kenyan Citizens?
To apply for a Vietnam e-visa, you will generally need a Kenyan passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your entry date with at least two blank pages, a digital copy of your passport's personal details page, a digital portrait photo meeting specifications, an active email address, and a credit/debit card for payment.
Can I Enter Vietnam at Any Port with My E-visa?
No, you must enter Vietnam only through the specific port of entry that you selected and had approved on your e-visa application. Entry may be refused if you attempt to enter at a different location.
Can I Extend My Stay in Vietnam Beyond My E-visa Duration?
Currently, it is generally not possible to extend an e-visa while in Vietnam. If you wish to stay longer, you may need to exit Vietnam and re-enter with a new e-visa. However, repeated re-entries might raise suspicion with immigration authorities.
Do I Have to Enter Vietnam on the Exact Date on My E-visa?
No, you are permitted to enter Vietnam on any date between the specified arrival date and exit date stated on your e-visa. However, entering earlier than the arrival date indicated on your e-visa is not allowed.
How Do Kenyan Citizens Apply for a Vietnam Visa?
The most common method for Kenyan citizens is to apply for the Vietnam e-visa online. This involves completing an application form, uploading required documents (passport scan, photo), and paying the fee. You can apply directly through the official government website or use a visa service provider for assistance.