Vietnam visa requirements for tourists

Visa-on-arrival (VOA)

Visa-on-arrival allows eligible nationals to obtain a physical visa stamp at Vietnam's international airports and land borders upon arrival. This option typically requires prior approval through an authorized visa agency or sponsor, which issues a letter of approval (LOA) sent to you electronically. You present this approval letter at immigration upon arrival and pay the visa fee in cash (amount varies by passport nationality and visa duration; fees typically range from approximately 15–50 USD, though exact costs fluctuate). Processing the approval letter usually takes 1–3 business days through an agency. VOA is a practical option for travelers who prefer to arrange visas shortly before departure.

Typical processing time

1–3 business days for approval letter

Payment method

Cash only at arrival (USD or VND)

Typical fee range

Approximately 15–50 USD (varies by passport class)

Approval letter required

Yes, arranged via agency before travel

E-visa for Vietnam

Vietnam's official e-visa system allows online application and approval for eligible nationalities, with the visa delivered electronically for printing. Application is completed on the government portal, requiring a passport scan and digital photo. Approved e-visas are valid for one single entry, typically for 30 days of stay (though durations can vary by application selection). Processing timeframes are typically quoted as 1–3 business days for standard approval, with expedited options available at higher cost. E-visas must be printed before arrival and presented with your passport at immigration. This method offers convenience for eligible applicants planning in advance.

Typical duration

Single entry, approximately 30 days

Processing time

1–3 business days (standard)

Application method

Online via official Vietnamese government portal

Approval delivery

PDF via email (must print before arrival)

Visa-free entry

Several nationalities qualify for visa-free entry to Vietnam for tourism purposes, typically for durations of 30, 45, or 90 days depending on bilateral agreements. Common visa-free nations include some ASEAN members and certain other countries with reciprocal agreements with Vietnam, though eligibility varies. Visa-free status applies only to the first entry or limited entries within a calendar year—exact rules depend on your passport nationality. Check the Vietnamese embassy website or official government source for your specific country to confirm current visa-free eligibility and permitted duration, as these agreements can change.

Typical duration

30–90 days (varies by nationality)

Renewal requirement

Subject to bilateral agreement limits

Application needed

No advance application; passport control at entry only

Proof of onward travel

Often required; check entry requirements

Passport requirements and entry documentation

Vietnam typically requires a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay date. All visa types require a standard tourist arrival form (TM.6) completed upon arrival. Travelers should carry proof of onward travel (flight booking or bus ticket) and accommodation details. Some nationalities may be asked to provide a return ticket or evidence of sufficient funds. Immigration occasionally requests the name and contact of your first accommodation in Vietnam. Keep photocopies of your passport identification page and visa approval (if applicable) separate from your original documents. No vaccination certificates are currently required for entry, though travel insurance is strongly recommended for medical emergencies.

Passport validity

Minimum 6 months from entry date

Arrival form

TM.6 form completed at immigration

Proof of onward travel

Flight or transport booking typically required

Accommodation details

Address of first hotel/guesthouse recommended

Where to apply and official resources

Vietnamese e-visa applications are submitted directly via the official government portal (official-vietnam-visa.com or equivalent national gateway). For visa-on-arrival, licensed agencies process applications and provide approval letters; ensure the agency you choose is authorized by Vietnamese immigration. Visa-free travelers simply proceed through immigration at arrival with valid documents. For definitive information on your nationality's specific requirements, processing fees, and current policy changes, contact the Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate in your country or consult the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website. Policy updates occur periodically; always verify requirements 4–6 weeks before travel to ensure you're meeting current entry rules.

E-visa portal

Official Vietnamese government online system

VOA agencies

Licensed private providers (verify authorization)

Official contact

Vietnamese Embassy in your country

Verification timing

Check requirements 4–6 weeks before departure

Frequently asked

Do I need a visa to visit Sa Pa?

Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Citizens of some countries can enter Vietnam visa-free for 30–90 days, while others must apply for a visa-on-arrival, e-visa, or through their embassy. Check your passport country's eligibility before booking. All visas must be arranged before or at your arrival.

How long is a standard tourist visa valid?

Tourist visas typically permit single-entry stays of approximately 30 days, though 90-day options exist for some nationalities. Duration depends on whether you apply for visa-on-arrival, e-visa, or qualify for visa-free entry. Always confirm the specific validity period in your approval documentation or official confirmation before traveling.

Can I extend my visa while in Vietnam?

Yes, visa extensions are available through immigration offices and licensed agencies in major cities including Hanoi (closest to Sa Pa). Extensions typically cost approximately 25–100 USD depending on the extension type and your visa category. Apply well before your visa expiry date; processing usually takes 3–7 business days.

What if my visa-on-arrival approval letter gets lost or damaged?

Keep digital and printed copies in separate locations. If your approval letter is lost or damaged, contact the agency that issued it immediately for a reprint or replacement letter. If approval occurs at immigration, request a photocopy of the stamped page in your passport as your entry record.

Do children need separate visas?

Yes, each person including infants and children requires their own visa documentation. Children travel on their own passport and must have approved visa (visa-on-arrival, e-visa, or visa-free eligibility) in the same way as adults. Some nationalities may qualify for joint visa applications; confirm with the Vietnamese embassy for your country.

Is travel insurance required to enter Vietnam?

Travel insurance is not a mandatory entry requirement for Vietnam. However, it is strongly recommended for all international travelers to cover medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and evacuation. Some nationalities may be asked about health insurance by immigration officers during routine questioning.