How to get Vietnam Visa with a British National (Overseas) (BNO) passport

1. Do BNO citizens need a visa to enter Vietnam?

Yes—all BNO citizens are required to have a valid visa to enter Vietnam. The only exception is if you travel directly to Phu Quoc Island from abroad, stay there no longer than 30 days, and then leave Phu Quoc to a destination outside Vietnam—in that case, no visa is needed. 

2. How to Apply for a Vietnam Visa 

Option A: Vietnam e-Visa

We would like to inform you that BNO citizen cannot get evisa Vietnam, however, passports from Hongkong, Macau, China, Taiwan can do. You can apply online—either directly via the official Vietnam Immigration Department’s e-Visa portal or with assistance from an agency.

Documents & Requirements:

•A clear JPG scan/photo of your passport bio page (passport valid for at least 6 months and minimum 2 blank pages)

•Portrait photo that meets Vietnam e-Visa standards

•Credit/debit card to pay the e-Visa fee online

•Valid email address for communication

•Travel itinerary (entry/exit dates, ports, accommodation details) 

Option B: Visa on Arrival (VOA)

This option involves obtaining a visa approval letter before departure (through an agency) and then getting the visa stamped upon landing in Vietnam.

Required Documents:

•Passport bio page photo (same validity requirements as above)

•Credit/debit card for paying service fee

•Valid email address

•Planned travel dates and intended arrival airport.

3. Processing Time 

•E-Visa: Typically processed within 1 to 4 working days, depending on your choice.

•Visa on Arrival:

oProcessing can take a working hour up to 4 working days depending on urgency.

oFees include two parts:

Approval letter fee (paid online when applying)

Stamping fee at the airport: USD 25 for single-entry or USD 50 for multiple-entry visas

4. Urgent or Emergency Visa Options

If you need a visa at the last minute, contacting an agency is your best bet—they may help you secure a VOA on the same day, within 4 hours, or even an hour in certain cases. 

5. Final Takeaway

BNO citizens have to obtain a Vietnam visa—Visa on Arrival—with its own requirements, timelines, and costs. Neither option applies to Phu Quoc visitors under 30 days with onward departure. For immediate or urgent needs, agencies can streamline the process considerably. Fast track service should be chosen to save your time.