Answereda year ago

How long does it take to process a DTV application from HCMC, and can I apply before entering Vietnam?

Thailand Visa DTV Visa Visa Application Process HCMC Visa Processing Time Immigration Requirements

Julien **********

asked May 29, 2025

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Hi all, I will apply for a DTV out of HCMC in July. Anybody knows how long it takes once you submit your application online? Should I submit my online application before going to Vietnam in case of a delay?

Also, once I receive my DTV, do I have to leave the same day to get my Thai stamp?

Thanks in advance for your help!

Answer summary

Applying for a DTV visa from HCMC may take 3-4 weeks or longer due to recent delays. It's important to note that you cannot submit your application until you have entered Vietnam, as you'll need to include a photo of your entry stamp. Once you receive your DTV visa, which is valid for 5 years, you do not need to leave Thailand the same day; you can enter Thailand multiple times until the visa expires.

10 repliesnewest first

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Bob **********

You can’t submit your application prior to arriving in Vietnam and you need to stay however long it takes

a year ago

Andrew ********

Recommend applying in Hanoi rather than HCMC

Julien **********

shorter turnaround?

Andrew ********

that seems to be the case currently, but anything can change between now and when you plan on applying

a year ago

Julien **********

@Andrew *******

true, knowing my luck I might change plan and go to Hanoi then HCMC will have shorter turnarounds lol

a year ago

Brandon ************

Many recent reports that HCMC has gotten to be quite long, 3-4 weeks if not longer. You CANNOT submit your application before you go to Vietnam. You must upload a photo of your entry stamp to Vietnam from your passport as part of your application.

Once you receive the DTV, it is valid for 5 years. You can enter as many times or as few times as you want until the expiration date on the visa.

a year ago

Julien **********

@Brandon ***********

thanks a lot for your reply. Does that mean that I have to stay in Vietnam until I receive my DTV? Sounds crazy..

a year ago

Brandon ************

@Julien *********

That is not only the expectation it's the requirement. And embassies have been doing follow-up checks to ensure you are still in the country by asking for receipts from your hotel and letter from the manager, asking you to come to the embassy for an interview and checking your passport for entry stamps to ensure you didn't go anywhere else, etc.

a year ago