Vietnam visa requirements for tourists

Visa-free and visa-exempt entry

Citizens of certain ASEAN countries and select other nations may enter Vietnam without a visa for tourism purposes. Visa-free periods typically range from 30 to 90 days depending on nationality. Citizens of countries such as Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar enjoy reciprocal visa-free agreements. Some G7 passport holders also qualify for extended visa-free access under bilateral arrangements. However, visa-free eligibility is narrow and country-specific. You must hold a valid passport with at least six months' validity remaining. To confirm your country's visa-free status, consult the Vietnamese embassy website for your region or the official immigration authority before departure.

Typical visa-free duration

30–90 days depending on nationality

Required passport validity

At least 6 months from entry

E-visa application for Vietnam

The e-visa is the most common route for most foreign tourists. Vietnam offers single-entry and multiple-entry e-visas, typically valid for 30 or 90 days. Application is conducted online through the official Vietnamese immigration portal or authorized third-party agents. Processing time varies—standard processing may take 3–5 business days, while expedited options exist at higher cost. You will need a scanned color copy of your passport bio page and a recent digital passport photo (usually 4×6 cm). The e-visa is granted as a PDF document and must be printed before arrival. Fees fluctuate and vary by processing speed and visa duration; always check current rates on the official government immigration website rather than relying on outdated figures.

Common e-visa durations

30 days or 90 days

Entry types available

Single-entry or multiple-entry

Processing time (standard)

Approximately 3–5 business days

Required documents

Passport scan + digital photo

Visa-on-arrival (VOA) process

Visa-on-arrival allows eligible tourists to obtain a physical visa stamp upon landing at a Vietnamese airport or border checkpoint. To use this service, you must obtain an approval letter from a Vietnamese immigration facilitator before travel. The approval letter is typically issued within 24–48 hours and is presented at the airport or border alongside your passport. You then pay the visa fee and receive your stamp. This method appeals to travelers who prefer not to use the e-visa system or who require last-minute entry. Processing fees and total visa costs vary depending on facilitator and airport; compare rates across authorized providers. The VOA experience depends on airport congestion and immigration officer efficiency, so allow extra time at arrival.

Approval letter processing

Typically 24–48 hours via facilitator

Stamp issued at

Airport or land border checkpoint

Payment timing

Upon arrival before entry

Passport type and entry duration differences

Passport strength affects visa eligibility and entry ease in Vietnam. Citizens of G7 countries (Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, UK, USA) and select wealthy nations typically benefit from longer visa-free periods or expedited e-visa approval. ASEAN passport holders enjoy reciprocal visa-free or reduced-fee arrangements under regional agreements. Developing-world passport holders may face stricter scrutiny, longer processing times, or requirement to apply through specific channels. Duration of stay varies—visa-free periods may permit 30–90 days, while e-visas typically allow 30 or 90 days depending on visa category purchased. Some nationalities require sponsor letters or additional documentation. Research your specific country's bilateral agreement with Vietnam through your nearest Vietnamese embassy or official government immigration portal.

G7 passport holders

Often eligible for extended visa-free or expedited e-visa

ASEAN passport holders

Typically receive visa-free or reduced-fee access

Typical maximum stay on tourist visa

90 days maximum per entry

Frequently asked

Can I extend my visa while in Vietnam?

Yes, tourist visas can typically be extended inside Vietnam through immigration offices in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, but extension fees and processing time vary. Extensions must be requested before your current visa expires. Contact a local travel agent or the immigration office in your city for current rates and procedures, as policy changes frequently.

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

A single-entry e-visa permits one arrival and exit; if you leave Vietnam, you must obtain a new visa to re-enter. A multiple-entry e-visa allows you to leave and re-enter Vietnam multiple times within the visa's validity period. Multiple-entry visas cost more but offer greater flexibility for travelers planning regional trips.

Do I need a return ticket or proof of funds to enter Vietnam?

Vietnam does not always mandate proof of onward travel or financial means for tourist entry, but immigration officers retain discretion to request documentation. It is prudent to carry proof of return booking, hotel reservations, and sufficient funds (typically USD 1,000+ per person recommended) to satisfy potential questions at immigration.

What should I do if my e-visa application is rejected?

If rejected, you will receive notification with a stated reason. Common reasons include incomplete documents, blurry photos, or passport validity issues. Correct the error and resubmit through the same portal or a different authorized facilitator. If uncertain, contact the Vietnamese embassy or a licensed immigration agent for guidance before reapplying.

Is my passport valid for entry if it expires within 6 months?

No. Vietnam requires at least six months' remaining passport validity from your date of entry for both e-visa and visa-on-arrival applications. If your passport expires soon, renew it before applying for a Vietnamese visa to avoid rejection or complications at immigration.

Can I get a visa on arrival if I arrive by cruise ship in Ha Long Bay?

Yes, cruise passengers arriving at Ha Long Bay port can typically apply for visa-on-arrival if they have an approval letter arranged beforehand. However, turnaround time at the port is limited; confirm VOA feasibility with your cruise operator and a Vietnamese immigration facilitator well in advance to avoid delays.