Consulate of Vietnam In New York

Bou L. on the previous review gave an excellent review of the Visa application process at the Consulate here in New York. My wife and I had similar thoughts and feelings going there but it was a breeze. I was able to print out the form at home. My wife had a problem but like Bou L. said they have a computer and printer in the office so you can do it there. The one thing I’d add is that we worried a bit about the photo they requested i.e. 4×6 cm and the ears must be showing. I managed to get our pics into that format but I don’t think it matters. I noticed others were turning in their applications with regular passport photos. Make note as Bou L mentions that they don’t accept credit cards for payment. This was a lot easier and less restrictive than applying for a Chinese Visa. It’s on the 4^th floor.

WOW ok, so I was really worried about getting a visa for my parents for their trip to Vietnam because I’ve experienced horror, utter HORROR with the Chinese consulate for the past 5 years.
Because of my horrific experience of getting turned away (because I didn’t have a hotel confirmation for a trip I was taking in like 6 months??? and other reasons) a few years ago at the Chinese consulate in NYC, I now always check Unilocal to see if I am missing anything when going anywhere anymore.
However, there are no Unilocal reviews for the Vietnamese consulate for some reason, and so I was actually worried that I had something wrong. When I read the Vietnam consulate website, I was confused that they literally required only an application form, a photo, and a passport because I’ve had to also supply airfare confirmation, hotel confirmation, AND airfare/​hotel confirmation for travel WITHIN CHINA.
However I took a chance and went. Again, I went during my lunch break and was scared that I’ll end up wasting two hours. However I took a quick crosstown M42 to 1^st ave and walked to the building. This consulate is actually just a teeny office within a larger building. I had to sign in at the front desk and then took the elevator up to the 4^th floor.
I was literally the only person there, and so I was in and out in 5 minutes.
A few things to note:
1. They do not take credit/​debit card. Only cash and check (?).
2. I paid upfront. I didn’t bother asking if I could pay later, so I don’t know if you actually can.
3. There is a form on the website that has a scannable bar code when you print it out. Fill that form out.
4. If you forget, no worries because there is a computer and printer there that you can use. I think that so few people frequent the consulate and that’s why that service is available (for free! I think…)
All in all, best consulate visa-​application experience. Now I just have to go pick it up!