If you’re a Costa Rican citizen planning to travel to Vietnam in 2025, securing the right visa is your first essential step. Fortunately, Vietnam now offers a convenient E-visa (Electronic Visa) system, allowing citizens of Costa Rica to apply completely online — no need to visit an embassy!
This guide will walk you through the application process, requirements, fees, and tips to help you obtain your Vietnam E-visa from Costa Rica easily and successfully.
Obtaining a Vietnam E-visa for Costa Rican Citizens
The e-Visa system was introduced by the Vietnamese government in 2017 to simplify the visa application process for travelers. It is an online visa that allows for a single or multiple entries into Vietnam, depending on the purpose of travel. For Costa Rican citizens, the e-Visa is a convenient and efficient option for visiting Vietnam for tourism or business purposes.
Advantages of Using an E-visa for Travel to Vietnam
There are several advantages to using an e-Visa for travel to Vietnam, especially for Costa Rican citizens. Some of these benefits include:
- Convenience: The entire e-Visa application process can be completed online, eliminating the need to visit a Vietnamese embassy or consulate. This saves time and effort for Costa Rican travelers.
- Quicker processing time: Compared to traditional visa application methods, the e-Visa processing time is much faster. It usually takes 3-5 working days for the e-Visa to be approved, making it ideal for last-minute travel plans.
- Cost-effective: The e-Visa fee is lower than other types of visas, making it a budget-friendly option for travelers. Additionally, there are no hidden fees or charges associated with the e-Visa.
- Multiple entry option: The business e-Visa allows for multiple entries into Vietnam, making it convenient for Costa Rican citizens who need to travel frequently for work.
In summary, obtaining a Vietnam e-Visa offers numerous benefits for Costa Rican citizens, including convenience, cost-effectiveness, and faster processing time.
Costa Rica’s E-visa Policy for Vietnamese Nationals
Similarly, Vietnamese nationals planning to visit Costa Rica can also apply for an e-Visa. As of 2021, Costa Rica has implemented an e-Visa policy for Vietnamese citizens, allowing for a stay of up to 30 days for tourism or business purposes. This policy aims to enhance the bilateral relationship between the two countries and promote tourism.
Exploring the Cultural Delights of Vietnam and Costa Rica
Both Vietnam and Costa Rica are known for their rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes. From ancient temples and pagodas in Vietnam to tropical rainforests and stunning beaches in Costa Rica, these two countries offer a unique blend of experiences for travelers. Here are some must-visit places in both countries:
Vietnam:
- Ha Long Bay: A UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its towering limestone islands and emerald waters, this is a must-visit destination in Vietnam.
- Hoi An Ancient Town: Located on the central coast of Vietnam, this charming town is home to well-preserved traditional houses, lantern-lined streets, and local markets.
- Ho Chi Minh City: The largest city in Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City is a bustling metropolis with a vibrant mix of old and new, from historic landmarks to modern skyscrapers.
Costa Rica:
- Manuel Antonio National Park: Known for its white sand beaches, lush rainforest, and diverse wildlife, this national park is one of the most popular in Costa Rica.
- Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve: This reserve is a haven for nature lovers, with its dense forest, diverse species of flora and fauna, and thrilling canopy tours.
- Arenal Volcano National Park: Home to the majestic Arenal Volcano, this national park offers hiking trails, hot springs, and stunning views of the volcano.
Both Vietnam and Costa Rica offer unique cultural experiences, delicious cuisine, and unforgettable adventures. With an e-Visa in hand, Costa Rican citizens can explore all that these countries have to offer.
Visa Requirements and Exemptions for Costa Rican Passport Holders in Vietnam
To apply for a Vietnam e-Visa, Costa Rican citizens need to meet certain requirements. These include:
- A valid Costa Rican passport with at least 6 months remaining validity from the intended date of entry into Vietnam.
- A scanned copy of the passport’s biographical page.
- A recent passport-sized photo (4×6 cm), taken against a white background.
- A valid email address to receive the e-Visa approval letter.
It is important to note that the e-Visa is only valid for single or multiple entries within a maximum stay of 30 days in Vietnam. If Costa Rican citizens wish to extend their stay, they must apply for a visa extension through the Vietnam Immigration Department.
Exemptions for Costa Rican Passport Holders
Costa Rican citizens are exempt from obtaining a visa for a stay of up to 15 days in Vietnam if they meet the following criteria:
- Holding a valid diplomatic or official passport.
- Being a spouse, child, or parent of a Vietnamese citizen.
- Entering Vietnam for diplomatic or official purposes.
- Transiting through Vietnam without leaving the transit area.
In these cases, Costa Rican citizens do not need to apply for a visa beforehand and can obtain a visa on arrival at the airport or border gate.
Comparing the E-visa Application Process for Vietnam and Costa Rica
The e-Visa application process for both Vietnam and Costa Rica is similar, with a few variations. Here is a comparison of the requirements and procedures for both countries:
| Criteria | Vietnam | Costa Rica |
|---|---|---|
| Eligible nationalities | Over 80 nationalities, including Costa Rican citizens | Over 160 nationalities, including Vietnamese citizens |
| Application method | Online | Online |
| Visa fee | $25 USD | $40 USD (tourist visa) or $60 USD (business visa) |
| Processing time | 3-5 working days | 1-2 working days |
| Maximum stay duration | 30 days from date of entry | 30 days from date of entry |
| Validity period | 30 days from date of intended arrival | 30 days from date of issuance |
| Entry requirements (in addition to visa) | A valid passport with at least 6 months remaining validity | A valid passport with at least 6 months remaining validity |
🌏 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Vietnam E-Visa for Costa Rica Citizens
❓ 1. Do Costa Rican citizens need a visa to enter Vietnam?
Yes. Costa Rica is not exempt from Vietnam’s visa requirements. Citizens of Costa Rica must apply for a visa before traveling to Vietnam, either through the E-visa system or another visa method (e.g., visa on arrival or embassy visa).
🖥️ 2. Can Costa Rican passport holders apply for a Vietnam E-visa?
Yes. Costa Rica is one of the 80+ countries eligible for Vietnam’s E-visa program, allowing citizens to apply completely online for a single or multiple-entry visa, valid for up to 90 days.
📄 3. What documents do Costa Ricans need to apply for a Vietnam E-visa?
You’ll need:
- A valid Costa Rican passport (valid at least 6 months from the entry date)
- A passport-sized photo (white background, no glasses)
- A scanned image of your passport’s bio page
- An email address to receive your E-visa
- A debit/credit card for payment
🕒 4. How long does it take to process a Vietnam E-visa for Costa Ricans?
Processing time is typically 3 to 5 working days (excluding weekends and Vietnamese public holidays). During peak travel seasons or holidays, processing may take slightly longer.
💳 5. How much does a Vietnam E-visa cost for Costa Ricans?
| Visa Type | Validity | Fee (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Single Entry | Up to 90 days | $25 |
| Multiple Entry | Up to 90 days | $50 |
Note: Fees are non-refundable, even if your application is rejected.
🛬 6. Which entry/exit points are allowed for E-visa holders from Costa Rica?
Costa Rican citizens can enter and exit Vietnam via 33 designated checkpoints, including:
- Airports: Hanoi (Noi Bai), Ho Chi Minh City (Tan Son Nhat), Da Nang, Cam Ranh, Phu Quoc
- Land borders: Moc Bai, Lao Bao, Nam Can, etc.
- Seaports: Hai Phong, Da Nang, Nha Trang
Be sure your entry/exit points match those on your E-visa.
🧾 7. Can I extend my Vietnam E-visa while in Vietnam?
Yes, E-visas can be extended through:
- Vietnam Immigration Offices in major cities
- A local visa agency like VisaOnlineVietnam
It’s best to apply for an extension at least 1 week before your E-visa expires.
📱 8. How can I check the status of my E-visa application?
Visit the official Vietnam E-visa portal, and use your application code and email to track status.
❌ 9. What if my Vietnam E-visa is rejected?
You’ll receive a notification by email. If rejected, you can:
- Reapply with corrected or additional information
- Or contact a visa expert like VisaOnlineVietnam for personalized assistance
🔁 10. Can I apply for a Vietnam E-visa more than once in a year?
Yes! You can apply as many times as needed as long as your previous visa has expired and you meet the current requirements.
📩 11. Where can Costa Rican citizens get help with their Vietnam visa?
You can contact VisaOnlineVietnam – a trusted visa consultancy supporting travelers from Costa Rica and beyond.
Conclusion
✅ Do Costa Rican Citizens Need a Visa for Vietnam?
Yes. Costa Rica is not on Vietnam’s visa exemption list, so Costa Rican passport holders must obtain a visa before entering Vietnam — whether for tourism, business, or visiting friends/family.
🌐 What Is a Vietnam E-visa?
A Vietnam E-visa is an official electronic visa issued by the Vietnam Immigration Department that allows eligible foreign nationals (including Costa Ricans) to:
- Stay in Vietnam up to 90 days
- Choose between single or multiple entry
- Use it for tourism, business, transit, or family visit
You apply online, receive your visa via email, and print it out for entry.
📋 Vietnam E-visa Requirements for Costa Rica Citizens
To apply for the Vietnam E-visa, you must prepare:
- A passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date.
- A digital passport-size photo (recent, with white background).
- A scanned image of your passport’s bio page.
- Your travel itinerary: entry/exit dates, ports of entry.
- A valid email address to receive the E-visa.
- A credit/debit card for online payment.
🛂 How to Apply for a Vietnam E-visa from Costa Rica (Step-by-Step)
- Go to the Official E-visa Portal:
- Click on “E-visa for foreigners” and complete the online form with:
- Personal details
- Travel dates
- Entry/exit points (airports, land ports, seaports)
- Upload:
- Passport scan (biographical page)
- Passport photo
- Pay the Application Fee:
- Standard fee: $25 USD (single entry), $50 USD (multiple entry)
- Receive Confirmation & Processing:
- Processing time: 3–5 working days
- The E-visa will be emailed to you as a PDF file
- Print Your E-visa and carry it when you travel to Vietnam.
🛬 Where Can You Enter Vietnam with an E-visa?
Costa Rican citizens with a valid E-visa can enter Vietnam at 33 international checkpoints, including:
- Airports: Noi Bai (Hanoi), Tan Son Nhat (Ho Chi Minh City), Da Nang, Cam Ranh, Phu Quoc
- Land borders: Moc Bai (Cambodia), Lao Bao (Laos), etc.
- Seaports: Hai Phong, Da Nang, Nha Trang
Make sure your entry point matches the one stated in your application.
💲 Vietnam E-visa Fees for Costa Rica
| Visa Type | Duration | Fee (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Single Entry | Up to 90 days | $25 |
| Multiple Entry | Up to 90 days | $50 |
Note: The fee is non-refundable, even if your visa is denied.
📌 Helpful Tips for Costa Rican Travelers
- Apply early: At least 7 days before your intended travel date.
- Double-check your application details to avoid rejection.
- Print multiple copies of your E-visa in case of loss.
- Use only the official E-visa portal or a reputable service like VisaOnlineVietnam.com for faster processing or emergency support.
🔄 Can You Extend Your Vietnam E-visa?
Yes, extensions are possible through:
- The Vietnam Immigration Office (in major cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City)
- Or through a visa agent, such as VisaOnlineVietnam
📞 Need Support?
VisaOnlineVietnam provides professional assistance, urgent E-visa services (as fast as 1 working day), and full customer care.
📧 Email: sales@visaonlinevietnam.com
📱 WhatsApp: (+84) 968 18 77 18
🌐 Website: https://visaonlinevietnam.com
🇻🇳 Ready to Explore Vietnam?
With your Vietnam E-visa in hand, you can now enjoy the beauty of this dynamic country, from the iconic Ha Long Bay to the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An and the buzzing energy of Ho Chi Minh City. Apply online today and make your Vietnam journey from Costa Rica smooth and stress-free!
