Do 'Visa on Arrival' programs provide legitimate means of getting a Vietnamese visa?

Question

My wife, daughter and I are traveling to Vietnam in two weeks on US passports (we live in Thailand). I contacted the Vietnamese Embassy in Bangkok which informed me that we cannot mail passports to them for visa applications, we have to show up in person to get visas. Since we live a long ways away (in Chiang Mai) I was wondering about the viability of applying for, and receiving a visa at the airport in Hanoi through a 'visa on arrival' program.

Has anyone had any success with this? I am also interested in companies that have worked well in these regards. Thanks

Answer 1

Visa on arrival in Vietnam is not a problem but remember to take 2 passport photos with you for the form, otherwise you will have to pay at the airport and they cost a lot more than you would normally pay in Thailand...

Have done this a few times Through HCM city without a problem

Answer 2

Yes, I know of many people who have obtained their visas upon arrival at the Vietnam airport. Here in the United States, people can usually apply for this through their travel agent or from the Vietnam embassy. What happens is you fill out a visa form and send it in like you would for a normal visa. You will then receive a letter confirming your application and that you will receive your visa in Vietnam. You take this letter and a copy of your passport plus two pictures with you and hand it over once you land in Vietnam. Good luck!