越南紧急签证 越南落地簽證指南 越南電子商務簽證 越南電子簽證指南

British National Overseas passport Applying for Vietnam Visa Guide 2025

Many Hong Kong residents holding British National (Overseas) passports (BNO) have begun to pay attention to how to apply for a Vietnam visa. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to applying for a Vietnam visa for BNO citizens, covering important information such as application fees, required documents, and eligibility, to help you plan your trip to Vietnam smoothly.

(1) Overview of Vietnam Visa

The visa system in Vietnam can be a bit complicated for BNO passport holders. First, we need to understand the special circumstances of BNO citizens when applying for a Vietnam visa. The Vietnamese government currently does not accept electronic visas (e-Visa) from BNO passport holders, meaning BNO citizens must look for other visa options.

For BNO passport holders, the most viable option is to apply for a Vietnam visa on arrival. This visa allows travelers to undergo immigration procedures directly after arriving at Vietnam’s international airport. Although this method may seem cumbersome, it provides BNO citizens with a reliable way to enter Vietnam.

(2) Steps for BNO citizens to apply for a Vietnam visa on arrival

The process of applying for a Vietnam visa on arrival can be divided into the following main steps:

  • Apply for a visa approval letter online
  • Prepare necessary documents
  • Go through visa procedures after arriving at the Vietnam airport

Apply for a visa approval letter online:

First, you need to apply for a visa approval letter through a certified travel agency or visa service agency. This is a key step in obtaining a visa on arrival. The application process is as follows:

  • Visit a reliable Vietnam visa application website (visa on arrival must be applied for through a Vietnam agent or Vietnam travel agency), fill out the online application form: https://www.yuenanyuenan.com/apply/, select nationality as “British National Overseas”
  • Upload a scan or clear photo of your passport information page
  • Pay the service fee
  • Wait for the approval letter to be sent to your email

Usually, the processing time for a visa approval letter is 4-5 working days. If you need expedited service, some agencies can complete the processing within 2 working hours, and there are many options when applying.

Once you have obtained the visa approval letter, you will need to prepare the following documents:

  • Printout of the visa approval letter
  • Two passport-sized photos
  • Original passport with a validity period of at least 3 months
  • US$25 in cash (for the single-entry visa fee)
  • Filled-in arrival card
  • Make sure you have all the documents to avoid unnecessary hassles at the airport.

Once you arrive at Vietnam International Airport, please follow the steps below to apply for a visa:

  • Look for the “Visa on Arrival” counter
  • Submit all the documents you have prepared
  • Wait for the staff to process your application
  • Pay the visa fee
  • Get your passport and visa sticker

The whole process usually takes 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the flow of people at the time.

(3) VIP Fast Track Service

For BNO citizens who want to save time and effort, Vietnam airports offer VIP Fast Track Service. This service can help you quickly complete entry procedures, including visa application and customs inspection.

Advantages of VIP Fast Track Service

Specialized reception: A dedicated staff will greet you at the airport and guide you through the entry process.

Priority processing: Your visa application will be given priority processing, greatly reducing waiting time.
Fast customs clearance: Assist you to quickly pass security and customs inspection.

How to book VIP Fast Track Service: When applying for a visa on arrival, you will usually see the option of VIP Fast Track Service. Just select this service and pay the corresponding fee. The fee may vary depending on the airport and service level. It is recommended to check the specific price in advance.

British National Overseas Passport Applying for Vietnam Visa Guide

(4) Notes on applying for a Vietnam visa

When applying for a Vietnam visa, BNO citizens need to pay attention to the following points:

  • Ensure the validity of your passport: Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the expected date of departure from Vietnam.
  • Apply in advance: If you want to apply for a regular visa, it is recommended to apply for a visa approval letter at least 7 days before the planned departure date to allow enough processing time.
  • Fill out the application form carefully: Make sure all the information is accurate to avoid visa rejection due to wrong information.
  • Prepare enough cash: You need to use US dollar cash when paying the visa fee at the airport, please prepare the exact amount in advance.
  • Keep copies of important documents: It is recommended to keep electronic copies of all important documents (such as passport, visa approval letter) in case of emergency.

(5) FAQ

  • Can BNO passport holders apply for Vietnam e-visa? No. Currently, the Vietnamese government does not accept BNO passport holders to apply for e-visas. BNO citizens can only choose to apply for a visa on arrival or apply for a traditional visa through the Vietnamese embassy.
  • What if my e-visa application is rejected? If your application for an e-visa with a BNO passport is rejected, don’t worry. This is because the system cannot recognize the BNO passport. You can directly apply for a visa on arrival, which is the best option for BNO citizens to enter Vietnam.
  • How long does it take to process a visa on arrival? Generally, the processing time for the visa approval letter is 4-5 working days. If you need expedited service, some agencies can complete the processing within 2 working hours. It usually takes 30 minutes to 1 hour to apply for the actual visa at the airport.
  • Can I extend my visa to Vietnam? Currently, tourist visas cannot be extended.
Visas to Vietnam have been made very simple.
Here’s why:
  • We do all that is necessary when you apply for a visa.
  • You made the form online, we send the result straight to your email.
  • You arrive in Vietnam, the visa is ready for pick up.
  • We have a 100% guarantee refund policy.
  • (see our refund policy)
Disclaimer: This website is not a government one and we are not affiliated with the embassy. We are in business to help and support those who need to get a visa for Vietnam.