When the Covid 19 virus started spreading, countries around the world have scrambled to close their borders in an effort to prevent the entry of the deadly virus into their country and protect its citizens. Vietnam, on their part, has denied entry to all foreign nationals and temporarily stopped issuing tourist visas. These include the citizens of Estonia, one of the European countries that were also affected by the coronavirus pandemic.

Thankfully, the crisis is over now and everything is trying to go back to normal. Because of this, the Vietnam government has once again opened its doors to foreign visitors. They hope to welcome more visitors into the country this year and recover from the loss brought about by Covid 19.

For citizens of Estonia, you have two options for your Vietnam visa – the e-visa and visa on arrival. Both visas are now available for you to apply. Here’s what you need to know.

Do Estonian Citizens Need a Visa to Vietnam?

Yes, as a citizen of Estonia, you are required to have a valid visa before you can enter Vietnam. But applying for your Vietnam visa should now be easy. That’s because you’re among those nationalities that are eligible for the e-visa, also known as an electronic visa. This is a visa that you can easily apply online so it’s very convenient for everyone. When you’re approved of this visa, you’d be able to enter Vietnam and stay there for 30 days. You can use this visa to enter at the airports, seaports, and even at land entry points.

Aside from the e-visa, there’s another visa that Estonian citizens are qualified to avail, and that’s the Visa on Arrival. As the name says, this visa is something that you can get on arrival. But before you will be issued this visa, you need to apply for a pre-approval letter in advance. Also, this visa lets you choose between a single entry and multiple-entry. Plus, you have the option to stay in Vietnam for up to 60 days.

How Can Estonian Citizens Apply for the Vietnam E-visa?

So how do you apply for the e-visa? It’s simple. Just go online and follow the steps below:

1. Fill out the visa application form online. Make sure you enter your details correctly. Double-check that the spelling is correct before you proceed to the next page.
2. Next, provide the requirements that are being asked of you. Upload the scanned bio page of your passport and provide digital copies of your passport-sized photos.

3. Pay for the visa-processing fee. This will cost you around $25 and you can pay using your debit card or credit card. Submit your application and wait for an email confirmation.
4. After about 3 business days, you’ll be notified if your e-visa has been approved. If the visa is approved, follow the steps to download a copy. It will be in PDF format. Print that out and that will serve as your visa to Vietnam.

How Can Estonian Citizens Apply for the Vietnam Visa on Arrival

For those who needed a multiple-entry visa or would like to stay in Vietnam for up to 60 days, the Visa on Arrival is a great option. Here is what you need to do if you need this kind of visa:

1. Go online and fill out the application form for the pre-approval of your visa. Just like with applying for the e-visa, you need to provide your important details, such as name, nationality, passport details, etc. Review and submit your application.
2. After a few days, you will get an email that comes with the pre-approval letter. Print the letter along with the blank application form. Fill out the form and bring it on your trip to Vietnam.
3. When you arrive at the airport, look for the Landing Visa counter. Here, submit the letter, the application form, your photos, and passport. You will also be asked to pay for the stamping fee of $25. They accept only cash in the US dollar or an equivalent of Vietnamese dong.
4. The officer will then ask you to wait. Once your visa is ready, they will call your name and ask you to come over to claim your passport. Check your passport and you’ll find the visa sticker attached in it.

So how do you choose which visa to apply? If you are vacationing only for a short time, then the e-visa should be fine. But if you are planning a much longer holiday in Vietnam, then the visa on arrival is a much better option. However, this visa can only be claimed at the airports. It won’t work if you’re entering through the port or by land borders.