Is there a difference between obtaining a Tourist Visa in Vietnam and Laos?

The process for obtaining a Tourist Visa in Vietnam differs from Laos in a few key areas. In Vietnam, specifically at the consulates in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, visa fees must be paid in US dollars. Applicants need to provide proof of financial stability, typically requiring evidence of at least 20,000 baht in a bank account, and show proof of onward travel within 60 days. Additionally, the consulates are noted to be slower but less crowded, making the experience potentially less stressful compared to other locations.