Vietnam visa requirements for tourists

Visa-free entry options

Citizens of 61 countries including Australia, Canada, Japan, South Korea, and most EU nations can enter Vietnam visa-free for tourism. Visa-free stays typically permit 30 to 90 days depending on passport origin—most commonly 90 days for Western passport holders, though some nationalities receive shorter durations. Visa-free entry is valid for single or multiple entries during the validity period, and no prior approval is required; travelers simply present a valid passport at immigration. However, visa-free policy is subject to change, and some countries may receive shorter duration grants than advertised. Travelers should confirm their eligibility and permitted stay length via the official Vietnamese immigration website or their nearest embassy before arrival. The visa-free scheme is the fastest entry route for eligible nationalities.

Eligible countries

61 nations including Australia, Canada, Japan, South Korea, EU members

Typical duration

30–90 days (varies by nationality)

Processing

Instant at immigration; no advance approval needed

E-visa application process

Vietnam's e-visa system allows eligible tourists to apply online and receive approval via email within 1–3 business days. E-visa applications require a valid passport (minimum 6 months validity), a digital passport photo, and payment of an e-visa fee (which varies and changes periodically; check official channels for current rates). The e-visa is printed or displayed on a smartphone at immigration and is valid for single entry and typically 30 days from issue date, though longer durations may be available depending on visa type and applicant nationality. Applications are submitted via the official Immigration Department portal; third-party visa agents also offer the service at a markup. Processing is fastest during business hours on weekdays. E-visa is particularly useful for nationalities ineligible for visa-free entry.

Processing time

1–3 business days typical

Validity

Single entry, usually 30 days from issue (varies)

Fee

Varies by visa type; check official portal for current rates

Application method

Online via Vietnamese Immigration Department portal or visa agents

Visa-on-arrival (VOA) option

Visa-on-arrival is available to tourists from most countries and requires travelers to apply via an agent abroad, receive an approval letter by email, and present it at a designated airport or land border checkpoint on arrival to receive the physical visa. VOA processing typically takes 1–5 business days depending on the agent and visa class. The visa is stamped directly into the passport at immigration upon presentation of the approval letter and payment of a stamping fee (which varies by visa type and port of entry; current rates should be confirmed with the agent). VOA permits single or multiple-entry stays, typically valid for 30 days or longer depending on visa class. VOA is slightly slower than e-visa but may be useful in some circumstances. Travelers using VOA should apply well in advance and verify visa class and fees with their chosen agent before commitment.

Processing time

1–5 business days via agent

Approval delivery

Via email; printed or digital presentation at border

Stamping fee

Varies by visa class and port; confirm with agent in advance

Valid entry points

Major airports and selected land borders

Passport nationality and duration differences

Passport origin significantly affects visa eligibility and permitted stay duration. G7 nationals (Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, UK, USA) and most EU/EEA/OECD countries typically enjoy 30–90 day visa-free or favorable e-visa terms. ASEAN nationals receive separate reciprocal visa arrangements—Vietnam citizens can enter other ASEAN countries visa-free, though ASEAN nationalities' access to Vietnam varies by bilateral agreement. Travelers from countries not listed in visa-free schedules, including some developing nations and island states, generally require e-visa or VOA and may receive shorter durations or additional documentation requirements. Always verify your specific nationality's terms on the Vietnamese Immigration Department website or at your nearest embassy before travel, as bilateral agreements and policy changes affect eligibility.

G7 & EU nationals

Typically 30–90 days visa-free or favorable e-visa access

ASEAN nationalities

Separate reciprocal agreements; vary by country

Other nationalities

Generally require e-visa or VOA; may receive shorter durations

Verification method

Check Vietnamese Immigration Department website or embassy

Application channels and official sources

The official Vietnamese Immigration Department portal (immig.gov.vn or official immigration email) is the authoritative source for current visa policy, fees, and e-visa applications. Travelers can apply for e-visa directly via the government portal or through licensed visa service agents in their home country or online. Visa-on-arrival is typically arranged through agents specializing in Vietnamese visas. Embassies and consulates of Vietnam provide visa services and authoritative guidance on eligibility and requirements. Tourist visas differ from business, investor, or long-term visas; ensure you select the correct visa type. Processing times, fees, and policy details change periodically, so official channels should always be consulted 4–6 weeks before travel. Avoid unverified third-party websites and always verify fees and processing timelines before payment.

Official portal

Vietnamese Immigration Department website and email channels

E-visa application

Direct (government portal) or via licensed visa agents

Visa-on-arrival

Applied via registered visa service agents abroad

Authoritative guidance

Vietnamese embassies and consulates in your home country

Frequently asked

Do I need a visa to visit Son La, Vietnam?

Visa requirements depend on your nationality and passport origin, not your destination within Vietnam. If you need a visa for Vietnam overall, the same visa is required for Son La. Check your nationality's eligibility for visa-free entry, e-visa, or visa-on-arrival via the Vietnamese Immigration Department website before travel.

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

Tourist visa duration typically ranges from 30 to 90 days depending on visa type and nationality. Visa-free stays often permit 30–90 days; e-visa and visa-on-arrival usually allow 30 days or longer. Exact duration is granted at immigration or stated on your approval letter—verify your visa class and permitted stay before arrival.

Can I extend my tourist visa while in Vietnam?

Yes, most tourist visas can be extended via the Immigration Department or licensed visa agents in Vietnam, typically for an additional 1–3 months depending on visa type and local rules. Extensions are processed within a few business days. However, policy and availability change; consult a visa agent in Vietnam or the Immigration Department for current options and fees.

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

E-visa is applied for online and approval is received by email; you print or display it at immigration on arrival. Visa-on-arrival requires an approval letter from an agent, which you present at the border to receive the physical stamp. E-visa is faster (1–3 days); visa-on-arrival typically takes 1–5 days and involves a stamping fee at the border.

Are there any passport requirements for a Vietnam visa?

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from Vietnam. For e-visa and visa-on-arrival applications, a digital passport photo is required. Ensure your passport has blank visa pages. Check with your embassy if your passport is damaged or near expiry.

Where can I apply for a Vietnamese tourist visa?

You can apply for e-visa via the official Vietnamese Immigration Department portal or through licensed visa service agents. Visa-on-arrival is arranged through registered agents. Vietnamese embassies and consulates also process traditional tourist visas. Always verify that your chosen service is licensed and use official government portals when possible.