How to get a Vietnam visa: tourist entry requirements

Visa-on-arrival (VOA)

Visa-on-arrival is one of the most common entry methods for tourists. You apply through a visa agency abroad (typically online), pay processing and service fees, and receive an approval letter within 1–3 business days. On arrival at major airports (Hanoi Noi Bai, Ho Chi Minh City Tan Son Nhat), you present the letter at the immigration desk, submit your passport and completed form, pay the visa stamping fee in cash (typically USD or local currency), and receive your entry stamp. VOA single-entry visas are usually valid for 30 days from the date of entry; multiple-entry options are available but less common for short tourism stays. This method suits travelers booking last-minute trips or those whose home countries have limited Vietnamese diplomatic representation.

Processing time

1–3 business days (online application)

Typical validity

30 days single-entry, 90 days multiple-entry

Application method

Online via visa agency, approval letter by email

Stamping location

Airport immigration desk on arrival

E-visa (electronic visa)

Vietnam's e-visa system allows eligible nationals to apply and receive approval entirely online through the official government portal (evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn). You upload a passport photo, passport information page, and complete the online form; approval arrives by email within 2–3 working days as a PDF document that you print and present at immigration. E-visas are typically valid for 90 days from approval and allow single entry. Processing is faster and often cheaper than visa-on-arrival when using the official portal, though third-party visa services exist with varying reliability. Not all nationalities are eligible for e-visa; many citizens of African, Middle Eastern, and some South Asian countries must use visa-on-arrival or apply at an embassy.

Processing time

2–3 working days

Validity period

90 days from approval date

Entry allowance

Single entry only

Application portal

evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn (official government)

Visa-free entry and short-stay exemptions

Citizens of several countries can enter Vietnam without a visa for tourism purposes, typically for 30–90 days depending on nationality. ASEAN member states (Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Indonesia, etc.) often receive 30-day visa-free entry; citizens of South Korea, Japan, and several European nations (Germany, France, UK, and others) qualify for longer exemptions or visa-free stays of varying durations. The exact list and permitted stay lengths change periodically as bilateral agreements evolve. If you qualify for visa-free entry, you need only a valid passport; no advance application is required. Confirm your nationality's status on the Vietnamese government immigration website or contact the nearest embassy before travel, as rules update regularly.

ASEAN citizens

Typically 30 days visa-free

Selected nations (EU, East Asia)

30–90 days depending on country

Eligibility check

Verify at immigration.gov.vn or embassy

Required document

Valid passport only

Passport validity and embassy contacts

Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date from Vietnam, regardless of visa type. If you need to apply for a visa at a Vietnamese embassy or consulate (rather than on arrival or online), processing times typically range from 5–10 working days for standard service, with expedited options available at higher cost. Major embassies and consulates operate in ASEAN capitals, major Asian cities, Europe, North America, and Australia. Processing fees, exact durations, and appointment systems vary by location; always contact the specific embassy serving your country of residence before applying. Visa rules, fees, and eligibility are subject to change, so official government sources and embassy websites are the only reliable reference.

Passport validity requirement

Minimum 6 months from departure

Embassy processing time

5–10 working days (standard)

Fee structure

Varies by embassy and service tier

Official resource

immigration.gov.vn; local Vietnamese embassy

Frequently asked

Do I need a visa to visit Vietnam if I'm a US or UK citizen?

UK citizens qualify for a 90-day visa-free stay (or visa-free entry period—confirm current rules). US citizens are not visa-exempt and must obtain an e-visa, visa-on-arrival, or visit an embassy. Rules change periodically; verify with the Vietnamese embassy or official immigration site before booking.

What is the cheapest way to get a Vietnam visa?

Using the official e-visa portal (evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn) is typically the cheapest and fastest option if you're eligible. Visa-on-arrival through agents involves higher service markups. Processing fees vary; always use official government channels rather than third-party resellers to avoid overpaying and fraud.

How long can I stay in Vietnam on a tourist visa?

Single-entry tourist visas typically allow 30–90 days depending on visa type and your nationality. E-visas are usually 90 days from approval; visa-on-arrival is often 30 days. Multiple-entry visas allow multiple 30- or 90-day stays but are less common for tourists. Confirm your specific allowance when you receive your approval.

Can I extend my Vietnam visa after I arrive?

Yes, visa extensions are possible through immigration offices or travel agencies in Vietnam, though fees apply and availability depends on visa type. Extensions typically add 30 days. Apply well before your current visa expires; exact procedures vary. Contact a local travel agency or immigration office for current extension terms.

What documents do I need to apply for a Vietnam visa?

You'll need a valid passport (6+ months validity), a passport-sized photo (for e-visa and some applications), and completed application forms. E-visa and visa-on-arrival require scanned copies; embassy applications may request additional documents. Check the official portal or your local embassy for specific requirements.