Vietnam visa requirements for tourists

Visa-on-arrival (VOA)

Visa-on-arrival allows tourists to obtain a visa at major ports of entry, typically airports and certain land borders. The process involves arranging a visa approval letter through an online service provider (often called a VOA agency), then presenting that letter and required documents (passport, photos, completed form) at immigration on arrival. Processing times for approval letters typically range from one to three business days. VOA is widely used by tourists from nationalities that do not qualify for visa-free entry. Fees vary by agency and are separate from the immigration stamp fee paid at the airport. Most VOA visas are granted for 30 days of single entry or 90 days for multiple-entry variants, though these durations can fluctuate. Major entry points include Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi), Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Ho Chi Minh City), and land borders at Moc Bai and other crossings.

Typical single-entry duration

30 days

Typical multiple-entry duration

90 days

VOA processing time (approval letter)

1–3 business days

Common entry airports

Hanoi (Noi Bai), Ho Chi Minh City (Tan Son Nhat)

E-visa (electronic visa)

Vietnam's e-visa system allows eligible tourists to apply online and receive a digital authorization, which is presented upon arrival. The online application requires a valid passport, a digital photo, and completion of an official form on the Vietnamese immigration website. E-visa approval is typically processed within three business days, though expedited options may be available. The e-visa is valid for entry within 90 days of issuance and typically permits a 30 or 90-day stay, depending on the type selected. E-visa cannot be extended within Vietnam, so travelers requiring longer stays must explore alternative visa categories. The authorization is sent via email and must be printed and carried with you upon arrival. Not all nationalities are eligible; check the official immigration portal to confirm eligibility for your passport type.

Processing time

typically 3 business days

Validity for entry

90 days from issuance

Single-entry stay duration

30 days

Multiple-entry stay duration

90 days

Visa-free entry

Several nationalities qualify for visa-free entry to Vietnam for short-term tourism. Citizens of most ASEAN member states (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand) typically enjoy visa-free stays of 30 to 90 days. Some G7 nationals and other countries also receive visa-free privileges, though durations and conditions vary. For example, citizens of certain European countries may qualify for 90-day visa-free entry under bilateral agreements. Conversely, citizens of some other nations are not eligible for visa-free entry and must apply for a visa in advance. Visa-free travelers are expected to carry a passport valid for the duration of stay plus at least six months, though specific requirements can vary by nationality. Always verify your country's status with the nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate before travel, as eligibility and durations change periodically.

ASEAN typical duration

30–90 days (nationality-dependent)

Some G7 nationals

90 days (subject to bilateral agreement)

Minimum passport validity

6 months beyond stay (typical requirement)

Application channels and official resources

Tourists can apply for Vietnamese visas through several official and authorized channels. The Vietnamese immigration online portal (cit.gov.vn) is the official source for e-visa applications and provides the most current entry requirements by nationality. Visa applications can also be submitted at Vietnamese embassies and consulates in your home country — this option typically allows longer processing periods and is recommended if you are not in a time-pressured situation. Third-party visa agencies (both online and physical offices) facilitate VOA and e-visa applications but charge service fees on top of the official immigration fee. International travel clinics and travel agencies can provide guidance, though they may not process visas directly. Given that visa policies, fees, and durations change frequently, consulting the official Vietnamese immigration website or your nearest embassy before purchasing a ticket is essential.

Official e-visa portal

cit.gov.vn

Application methods

Online (e-visa), embassy, VOA agencies

Recommended timeline

Apply 1–2 weeks before departure (email delivery time varies)

Frequently asked

Do I need a visa to visit Vietnam as a tourist?

Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Citizens of ASEAN countries and some other nations enjoy visa-free entry, while most other nationalities require either a visa-on-arrival, e-visa, or pre-arranged visa. Check with the Vietnamese embassy in your country or the official immigration website (cit.gov.vn) to confirm your eligibility before booking travel.

What is the difference between e-visa and visa-on-arrival?

E-visa is applied for online before arrival and emailed to you; you print it and present it at immigration. Visa-on-arrival requires an approval letter obtained online, which you bring to immigration upon landing and pay a fee in cash. E-visa typically takes 3 business days; VOA approval takes 1–3 business days, but you may wait in line at the airport.

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

Single-entry visas typically permit 30 days, while multiple-entry visas often allow 90-day stays. Some visa-free nationalities may be granted 90 days automatically. Exact durations depend on your nationality and the visa type. Extensions within Vietnam are possible for some visa categories; consult immigration officials upon arrival if you need a longer stay.

Can I extend my visa while I'm in Vietnam?

Extensions are possible for some visa types but are handled through immigration offices in-country and involve fees. E-visa cannot be extended; you must depart or apply for a different visa category. Contact your hotel or a local travel agency for assistance with extension procedures, as requirements vary by visa type and your nationality.

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

Standard requirements include a valid passport (typically with 6+ months validity beyond your stay), a digital photo (for e-visa and some VOA applications), and a completed application form. Specific requirements vary by visa type and nationality. Review the official immigration website or contact your embassy for a complete checklist before you apply.

What is the minimum passport validity required for Vietnam entry?

Most sources recommend a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from Vietnam, though the exact requirement can vary by nationality and visa type. Some visa-free agreements may permit shorter validity. Confirm the specific requirement for your passport country with the nearest Vietnamese embassy before traveling.