Visa requirements for entering Vietnam

E-visa and online entry authorization

Vietnam's e-visa program allows citizens of eligible countries to apply online and receive authorization by email, typically valid for single or multiple entry. Processing times are usually 1–3 business days depending on the service provider. The e-visa is printed and presented upon arrival. Applicants must have a passport valid for at least 6 months from the intended entry date and provide a digital photograph and scanned passport page. Fees vary by processing speed and are subject to change; verify current prices through official Vietnamese government e-visa websites or authorized service partners. The e-visa is not available to all nationalities; check eligibility lists before applying.

Processing time

1–3 business days (varies by speed tier)

Passport validity required

Minimum 6 months from entry date

Application method

Online portal (print and present at border)

Single or multiple entry

Both options available

Visa-on-arrival (VoA) at international airports

Visa-on-arrival is issued at major Vietnamese airports, including Tan Son Nhat in Ho Chi Minh City, for nationalities not eligible for e-visa or visa-free entry. Travelers must obtain an approval letter in advance from a Vietnamese travel agency or government partner, then present this letter with a passport, photograph, and completed arrival form at the airport visa counter. The VoA is typically a single-entry tourist visa. Processing at the airport usually takes 1–2 hours. Fees are collected upon arrival and vary by visa type and processing speed; confirm current rates with your application service or the airport authority. VoA is not available to all nationalities and is subject to change.

Approval letter

Obtained in advance via travel agency or online service

Processing at airport

Typically 1–2 hours

Required documents

Passport, photograph, arrival form, approval letter

Entry type

Single entry (typical)

Visa-free and exemption categories

Several nationalities qualify for visa-free entry to Vietnam for tourism, typically for 30 or 90 days depending on bilateral agreements. ASEAN members (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand) generally receive 30–90 day visa-free access. Some non-ASEAN countries also qualify under reciprocal arrangements, though these lists change. Citizens of G7 nations (Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, United Kingdom, United States) should verify their current eligibility, as exemptions are not guaranteed. All travelers must hold a passport valid for at least 6 months and meet standard border health and documentation checks. Confirm your specific nationality's current status via your nearest Vietnamese embassy or the government travel portal.

ASEAN typical duration

30–90 days (country-specific)

Passport validity

Minimum 6 months required

Return ticket

Often required at entry point

Status verification

Confirm with Vietnamese embassy before travel

Application channels and official resources

Visa applications are processed through Vietnamese embassies and consulates abroad, online e-visa portals, authorized travel agencies, or at international airport counters. Official Vietnamese government e-visa portals are the most direct online route; authorized service partners may charge additional processing fees. Embassies and consulates provide in-person visa services and can answer specific questions about eligibility and requirements. Application timelines vary: embassies may take 5–15 business days for traditional visa stamps, while e-visas are typically faster. Verify you are using official or authorized channels; fraudulent visa services exist. Always double-check requirements with your nearest Vietnamese diplomatic mission before paying any fees.

Embassies/consulates

Traditional visa stamps (5–15 business days typical)

Official e-visa portal

Online application (1–3 business days)

Authorized travel agencies

Additional fees may apply

Airport visa counters

Same-day processing (limited to eligible nationalities)

Frequently asked

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

Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Some countries have visa-free or visa-exemption agreements with Vietnam, while others require an e-visa, visa-on-arrival, or embassy-issued visa. Check your country's current status with the Vietnamese embassy in your home country or on the official government e-visa portal before booking travel.

How long is a typical tourist visa valid?

Tourist visas typically allow 30 days, though some nationalities and entry types permit 90 days. Duration varies by visa category (visa-free, e-visa, or VoA) and nationality. Confirm the specific validity period for your visa type before entry, as rules change frequently.

Can I extend my visa while in Vietnam?

Visa extensions are possible through immigration offices in Vietnam, typically adding 30 days to your stay. Extensions must be applied for before your current visa expires. Fees and procedures vary; contact a local immigration office or travel agency in Da Lat or Ho Chi Minh City for current extension rates and requirements.

What passport validity do I need to enter Vietnam?

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your intended date of entry into Vietnam. Passports with fewer than 6 months validity may be refused entry. Check your passport expiration date well before your departure date.

Is the e-visa accepted everywhere or only at certain airports?

E-visas are accepted at major international airports, seaports, and land borders in Vietnam, including Tan Son Nhat Airport in Ho Chi Minh City (the closest airport to Da Lat). However, not all entry points accept all visa types; confirm acceptance at your specific entry point with your airline or the official portal.

What if my nationality is not on the visa-free or e-visa eligible list?

Ineligible nationalities typically must apply for a visa-on-arrival or embassy-issued visa. Visa-on-arrival requires an approval letter obtained in advance. Contact the nearest Vietnamese embassy or a licensed travel agency for guidance and to obtain the approval letter before your trip.