October 15, 2023
Vietnam e-visa

How to Apply for a Vietnam e-Visa for Costa Rican Citizens

Planning a trip to Vietnam from Costa Rica can be an exciting adventure, but it also comes with the responsibility of obtaining a valid visa. With the introduction of e-visas, the process has become more convenient and accessible for Costa Rican citizens. In this article, we will guide you through the steps of applying for a Vietnam e-visa and provide valuable tips to increase your chances of a successful application and expedite the process.

Are Costa Rican citizens Eligible to apply for a Vietnam e-visa?

With the recent government resolution number 127/NQ-CP, the Vietnam e-visa is now available to passport holders of all countries and territories, including Costa Rica. This significant change has opened up exciting opportunities for Costa Rican citizens to explore the wonders of Vietnam without the need for traditional visa applications.

Understanding the Vietnam E-visa Options & Fees for Costa Ricans

Vietnam offers four types of e-visas, each with its own validity period and entry options. It’s important to choose the right type of e-visa based on your travel requirements. Here are the options available:

  1. Single-entry E-visa (30 days): For a single entry and a stay of up to 30 days, the cost for a Vietnamese e-visa is US$25. This is ideal for travelers planning a short trip to Vietnam.
  2. Multiple-entry E-visa (30 days): If your travel plans involve multiple entries within a 30-day period, you can opt for the multiple-entry e-visa. The fee for this type of e-visa is US$50. It allows for more flexibility in exploring various regions of Vietnam.
  3. Single-entry E-visa (90 days): For a longer stay in Vietnam, the single-entry e-visa valid for up to 90 days is available at the same cost of US$25. This option is ideal for travelers who wish to immerse themselves in the rich Vietnamese culture and explore the country extensively.
  4. Multiple-entry E-visa (90 days): For travelers who plan to make multiple visits to Vietnam within a 90-day period, the multiple-entry e-visa is the perfect choice. It costs US$50 and allows for unlimited entries during the visa’s validity.

Important Information about E-visa Fees

It’s crucial to note that the e-visa fees mentioned above are applicable when applying through the official government website. However, if you choose to apply through an agency, the fees may vary. Agencies may charge additional service fees for processing your e-visa application.

Vietnam E-visas’s Refund Policy

It’s essential to be aware that the e-visa fee, irrespective of the application’s outcome, is non-refundable. Whether your visa application is approved or denied, the fee paid to the official government website cannot be refunded. Therefore, it’s advisable to double-check your application and ensure all the necessary requirements are met before submitting it.

Vietnam E-visa Requirements for Costa Ricans

To apply for a Vietnam e-visa, Costa Rican citizens will need the following documents and information:

  1. Valid passport: Ensure that your Costa Rica passport is valid for at least six months from your planned date of entry into Vietnam.
  2. Personal information: Prepare personal details such as your full name, date of birth, gender, nationality, and passport number.
  3. Digital photo: Submit a recent passport-sized photo with a white background. Make sure your face is clearly visible, without any headwear or glasses that may obstruct your facial features.
  4. Valid email address: Provide an active email address to which all correspondence regarding your e-visa application will be sent.
  5. Valid credit/debit card: You will need a valid credit or debit card to pay the visa processing fee. Ensure that your card has sufficient funds to cover the fee.
  6. Travel itinerary: Prepare a detailed travel plan, including your intended entry and exit dates, as well as the cities you plan to visit in Vietnam.
  7. Current occupation: Provide information about your current occupation, such as your job title and employer.

Uploading Requirements for Vietnam e-Visa Application

To begin your Vietnam e-Visa application, you need to upload two essential documents. The first is a portrait photo that should measure 4x6cm. Ensure that you are looking straight into the camera and not wearing glasses. The second document you need to upload is a copy of your passport data page, which should include your photo, personal details, and ICAO lines.

Portrait Photo Requirements for Vietnam e-Visa Application

To meet the portrait photo requirements for your Vietnam e-Visa, make sure you adhere to the following guidelines:

  1. The photo should be in color and taken against a white background.
  2. Your face should cover 70-80% of the photo, with your eyes clearly visible.
  3. Avoid wearing hats, headbands, or any other accessories that may obstruct your face.
  4. Ensure that your facial expression is neutral, with your mouth closed.

Processing Time and Checking e-Visa Status for Costa Rican

After submitting your e-Visa application, you may be curious about the processing time and how to check the status of your application. Typically, it takes around 3 working days for the Vietnam Immigration Office to process your e-Visa. However, please note that this time frame may vary.

To check the status of your e-Visa, simply visit the official Vietnam Immigration website and look for the “Check Visa Application Status” section. Enter your application reference number, passport number, and date of birth to retrieve the latest information about your e-Visa status.

National Holidays and Office Closures in Vietnam

It’s important for Costa Rican citizens to be aware of the national holidays in Vietnam as the Vietnam Immigration Office remains closed on these days. The national holidays include:

  1. New Year’s Day – January 1st
  2. Tet Holiday – Dates vary based on the lunar calendar
  3. Hung Kings Commemoration Day – April 25th
  4. Reunification Day – April 30th
  5. Labor Day – May 1st
  6. National Day – September 2nd

Please plan your e-Visa application accordingly, taking into account these holidays, as the processing time may be longer due to office closures.

Vietnam E-visa Application Process for Costa Rican citizens

Now that you have gathered all the necessary documents and information, follow these simple steps to apply for your Vietnam e-visa:

  1. Visit the official Vietnam e-Visa website: Go to the official Vietnam e-Visa website by typing “Vietnam e-Visa” into your preferred search engine. Look for the official government website to ensure a secure and reliable application process.
  2. Complete the application form: On the website, locate the application form and fill it out accurately and carefully. Provide all the required information, including your personal details, travel itinerary, and current occupation. Double-check your entries to avoid any mistakes.
  3. Upload your documents: Attach the scanned copies of your passport and digital photo to the application form. Ensure that the documents meet the specified size and format requirements.
  4. Pay the visa processing fee: Use your valid credit or debit card to pay the visa processing fee. The fee may vary, so be sure to check the official website for the latest information.
  5. Submit the application: After completing the payment, review your application details once again for accuracy. Once you are satisfied, click on the submit button to send your application to the Vietnamese immigration authorities.
  6. Track your application: Upon submission, you will receive an application ID or reference number. Use this number to track the progress of your e-visa application on the official website. The processing time may vary, but it typically takes around three working days.
  7. Receive your e-visa: Once your application is approved, you will receive your Vietnam e-visa via email. Print out a copy of the e-visa and keep it with you throughout your journey to Vietnam.

Understanding the Approval Process

Before delving into the application process, it’s important to acknowledge that not all e-visa applications are approved. Vietnamese immigration officers have their own set of rules and criteria to evaluate each application. However, by following the guidelines and ensuring all requirements are met, you can significantly increase your chances of success.

Increasing the Success Rate for Vietnam E-visa Application as Costa Rican

To maximize your chances of obtaining a Vietnam e-visa, here are a few essential tips to keep in mind:

  1. Submit Accurate and Complete Information: Ensure that all the information you provide in your e-visa application is accurate, up-to-date, and matches your passport details. Any discrepancies can lead to rejection or delays in processing.
  2. Prepare Supporting Documents: Be ready with all the necessary supporting documents required for the application process. These generally include a passport-sized photograph, a scanned copy of your passport’s bio page, and proof of accommodation in Vietnam.
  3. Check Eligibility: Verify if you meet the eligibility criteria for obtaining a Vietnam e-visa. As a Costa Rican citizen, you are entitled to apply for this type of visa. However, it’s crucial to stay updated on any changes in visa policies and requirements.
  4. Apply in Advance: To avoid last-minute stress or unexpected delays, it is advisable to apply for your e-visa well in advance. The Vietnamese government recommends submitting applications at least seven days before your intended travel date.

Speeding up the process for Costa Ricans to get visas urgently

If you’re in a rush or prefer a hassle-free experience, hiring a reputable agency can be the best solution. These agencies specialize in assisting travelers with the visa application process, offering services that include:

1. Simplified Application Forms:

Agencies provide simple and user-friendly application forms, ensuring that you don’t miss any crucial details.

2. Document Upload Assistance:

They guide you through the process of uploading the required documents, ensuring that everything is correctly submitted.

3. Friendly Customer Support:

Experienced agencies have knowledgeable customer support teams that are readily available to address any queries or concerns you may have during the application process.

4. High Success Rate:

One of the significant advantages of using an agency is their high success rate. Reputable agencies boast a 99.9% success rate, giving you peace of mind and minimizing the chances of rejection.

5. Expedited Services:

If you require your e-visa urgently, agencies have the expertise to expedite the process. Depending on your needs, they can provide a same-day, four-hour, or two-hour processing option.

Conclusion

Applying for a Vietnam e-visa as a Costa Rican citizen is now more accessible than ever. By following the guidelines mentioned above, you can increase your chances of success and expedite the application process. However, for those who prefer a hassle-free experience and want to avoid potential frustration, hiring a reputable agency is highly recommended. With their expertise, friendly support, and streamlined services, you can obtain your e-visa with ease, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey to beautiful Vietnam.

PERHAPS YOU ARE INTERESTED IN

Are you a citizen of Costa Rica planning to visit Vietnam? Good news! With the introduction of the Vietnam e-visa, applying for a visa has become easier and more convenient than ever before. Gone are the days when you had to visit the Vietnamese embassy or consulate in person.

Attention, citizens of Costa Rica! We bring you exciting news that will make your travel dreams to Vietnam a reality. Starting from August 15, 2023, Vietnam has officially opened its e-visa scheme to citizens of ALL countries, including Costa Rica.