Vietnam visa requirements for tourists

Visa-free entry options

Several nationalities qualify for visa-free short-term stays in Vietnam without advance authorization. Eligibility is typically extended to citizens of ASEAN member states (Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Brunei, Laos, Myanmar, Cambodia) and a small number of other countries including Japan, South Korea, and Russia. Visa-free periods typically range from 30 to 90 days depending on nationality and are intended for tourism and brief business visits. Duration limits are strictly enforced; overstaying visa-free entry carries significant fines and potential legal consequences. Check your passport's visa-free status through the official Vietnamese Immigration Department website before travel to confirm current eligibility, as treaties are subject to revision.

ASEAN citizens

Typically eligible for visa-free entry up to 30–90 days

Select G7 and East Asian passports

Japan, South Korea, and others may qualify; check official sources

Enforcement

Overstaying incurs fines and legal penalties

E-visa (online application)

The e-visa is the most convenient option for most nationalities and is processed entirely online. Applications are submitted through the official Vietnamese Immigration Department portal, with approval typically received within 1–3 business days. The e-visa is single-entry or multiple-entry depending on the type selected, valid for 30 days or 90 days (or longer for multiple-entry variants), and carries an official government processing fee—specific amounts vary by visa class and change periodically. Once approved, you receive a digital approval letter via email, which you must present alongside your passport at Vietnamese immigration upon arrival. This method eliminates the need for agency intermediaries and reduces processing times compared to traditional visa applications.

Processing time

Typically 1–3 business days

Validity duration

30, 90, or 180 days depending on visa type

Entry type

Single-entry or multiple-entry options available

Required documents

Valid passport, passport photo (digital), and online form completion

Visa-on-arrival through agents

Visa-on-arrival (VOA) is organized through licensed travel agencies and agents, who submit your application to Vietnamese authorities on your behalf. You provide required documents (typically passport copy, photo, and completed forms) to the agent, who liaises with immigration; you then pay a processing fee to the agent plus the official government visa fee. The visa is printed and collected at your port of entry (most commonly Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi airports). Processing typically takes 2–5 business days. This route is popular with travelers who prefer agent handling but is generally more expensive and slower than e-visa. Verify that agents are licensed and established to avoid scams; government-recommended agents are listed on official Vietnamese immigration portals.

Processing time

Typically 2–5 business days via agent submission

Collection point

Visa collected at airport upon arrival

Costs

Agent fee plus official government fee (amounts vary and change)

Risk mitigation

Use only licensed, government-recognized agents

Passport strength and visa-free vs. visa-required entry

Visa eligibility varies significantly by passport strength. G7 citizens (UK, US, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan) often have access to visa-free entry or simplified e-visa processes with favorable durations; many ASEAN passports qualify for longer visa-free periods. Emerging-market and developing-nation passports typically require advance e-visa or visa-on-arrival applications. Vietnam does not operate a universal visa waiver; entry rules are determined bilaterally between Vietnam and your issuing country. No passport grants unconditional indefinite access. Always verify your specific nationality's eligibility on the official Vietnamese Immigration Department website (bca.gov.vn) before booking travel, as bilateral agreements and exemptions change periodically.

G7 passports

Generally eligible for e-visa or visa-free options with favorable terms

ASEAN passports

Typically qualify for longer visa-free stays (30–90 days)

Other nationalities

Verify eligibility through official government sources

Key entry requirements and documentation

All visitors must hold a passport valid for at least six months beyond their intended departure date from Vietnam. Upon arrival, you must present your valid travel document, entry visa (if required), a completed landing card provided on arrival, and evidence of accommodation or return travel (though these are not always rigorously checked). Visitors may be asked about the purpose of visit, intended duration, and financial means. Yellow fever vaccination is required only if you are arriving from a yellow-fever-endemic country. Electronic fingerprinting and health screening protocols may be in place. No special permits are required for Dong Nai Province specifically; entry rules are uniform across Vietnam. Keep copies of your visa approval (e-visa email or printed document) easily accessible.

Passport validity

Minimum 6 months from date of departure

Landing card

Provided upon arrival; must be completed

Yellow fever vaccination

Required only from endemic-country arrivals

Biometric collection

Fingerprinting typically conducted at immigration

Frequently asked

Can I extend my visa while in Vietnam?

Yes. Single-entry and multiple-entry visas can often be extended through immigration offices in major cities (Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Da Nang) or via licensed travel agencies. Extensions must typically be requested before the original visa expires. Processing takes 5–10 business days and incurs an extension fee. Contact the nearest Immigration Department office or a licensed agent for current procedures and fees.

What is the difference between single-entry and multiple-entry visas?

Single-entry visas permit one border crossing and one exit; if you leave Vietnam and re-enter, the visa becomes invalid. Multiple-entry visas allow repeated entries and exits within the validity period. E-visa and visa-on-arrival both offer single and multiple-entry options, though multiple-entry variants typically cost more and may require longer processing.

Is the e-visa accepted at all Vietnamese airports and border crossings?

E-visas are accepted at most international airports (Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Da Nang, Hai Phong) and many land borders, but not all land crossings recognize e-visa. Visa-on-arrival is traditionally safer for overland entry. Check official immigration sources for the specific border crossing you plan to use.

What happens if I overstay my visa?

Overstaying is a serious violation. Fines are levied per day of overstay, and you may face detention, deportation, and a ban on re-entry. Offenders are typically required to pay accumulated fines before departure. If you realize you will overstay, seek immediate advice from immigration authorities or a legal representative.

Do children need separate visas, or can they travel on a parent's passport?

Children typically require their own valid passport and separate visa (or visa-free eligibility), regardless of whether they travel with parents. Age does not exempt children from entry requirements. Ensure all family members have proper documentation before travel.

Where should I check the most current visa information?

The official Vietnamese Immigration Department website (bca.gov.vn) and your country's embassy or consulate in Vietnam are authoritative sources. Visa rules and fees change periodically; avoid relying on travel blogs or outdated guides. Consult official sources 4–6 weeks before travel.