Vietnam visa requirements for tourists

Visa-on-arrival (VoA) for Vietnam

Visa-on-arrival allows eligible tourists to obtain a visa upon landing at Vietnamese airports or major border crossings. This option typically requires advance authorization from Vietnamese immigration authorities, usually arranged through private visa agencies or your airline. Processing time for VoA authorization commonly ranges from 1–5 business days, though expedited options may be available. You will receive an approval letter via email, which you must present alongside your passport and completed TM.01 form at the immigration desk upon arrival. VoA fees vary by duration and are typically collected in cash (USD or VND) at the airport. This method suits travelers who prefer flexibility or are applying closer to their departure date. Minors must be listed on a parent or guardian's application.

Typical processing time

1–5 business days

Payment method at airport

Cash (USD or VND)

Documentation required

Passport, approval letter, completed TM.01 form

E-visa for Vietnam

Vietnam's e-visa system allows online application and digital approval, with the visa issued electronically. Eligible nationalities can apply through the official Vietnamese government e-visa portal or authorized third-party providers. Processing typically takes 2–3 business days for standard applications. The e-visa is usually valid for single entry and a 90-day tourist stay duration, though specific allowances depend on your nationality and application type. Applicants must upload a digital passport photo and passport biodata page. Once approved, the e-visa is sent to your email and must be printed and presented to immigration officials upon arrival in Vietnam. E-visa fees are generally lower than VoA and are paid online before travel.

Standard processing time

2–3 business days

Typical validity duration

Single entry, approximately 90 days

Application method

Online via official or authorized portal

Payment method

Online (credit/debit card)

Visa-free entry for eligible nationalities

Several nationalities qualify for visa-free entry to Vietnam for tourism purposes, typically for stays of 14–90 days depending on passport country. Citizens of ASEAN member states (Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Indonesia, Brunei) and some other nations enjoy visa exemptions or extended visa-free periods. G7 passport holders (USA, UK, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan) currently do not qualify for visa-free entry but may access e-visa or VoA routes. Visa-free travelers must still pass through immigration control and be prepared to show proof of onward travel, accommodation, and sufficient funds. The duration of visa-free stay varies—check your specific nationality with Vietnamese immigration authorities or your nearest embassy before travel.

ASEAN nationals typical duration

14–90 days (varies by country)

No visa required from

Select ASEAN and partner nations

Documentation at entry

Passport, proof of accommodation, onward travel

Application channels and official guidance

Vietnamese visas can be obtained through Vietnamese embassies and consulates in your home country, or remotely via e-visa or VoA authorization services. The official government e-visa website (evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn) is the primary digital channel for eligible applicants. For in-person applications, contact your nearest Vietnamese diplomatic mission well in advance of travel—processing times typically range from 5–15 business days depending on service level. Third-party visa agencies offer convenience but charge service fees on top of government charges. Always verify current fees, processing times, and eligible nationalities through official Vietnamese sources, as regulations update frequently. Applicants should also check any special conditions related to their passport's validity period and whether exit stamps are required.

Official e-visa portal

evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn

Embassy/consulate processing

Typically 5–15 business days

Verification step

Confirm eligibility via official sources before applying

Frequently asked

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

Tourist visa durations vary by entry method and nationality. E-visas and visa-on-arrival typically allow stays of approximately 30–90 days for a single entry, though specific periods depend on your passport country. Visa-free entrants from eligible nations may stay 14–90 days. Always verify the exact duration granted on your approval document before arrival, as conditions change.

Can I extend my Vietnam tourist visa while in-country?

Yes, tourist visas can typically be extended through immigration offices in major Vietnamese cities, including Hanoi. Extensions must be requested before your current visa expires and are processed through the local Department of Immigration. Processing time is usually 3–7 business days. Extension fees apply and vary by visa type and additional duration requested. Consult the immigration office in your current location for specific procedures.

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

E-visas are obtained entirely online before travel and printed upon arrival; visa-on-arrival requires advance authorization but is finalized at the airport. E-visas typically offer faster processing (2–3 days) and lower fees, while VoA may offer more flexibility for late applicants. Both allow similar stay durations. Choose based on your timeline and comfort with online processing.

Do I need a visa if I'm a citizen of an ASEAN country?

Many ASEAN nationals qualify for visa-free entry to Vietnam. Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, and other ASEAN members enjoy exemptions ranging from 14–90 days depending on the specific country. However, duration and conditions vary—verify your exact nationality's status with Vietnamese immigration or your embassy before travel, as regulations are subject to change.

What should I do if my visa application is rejected?

If your application is rejected, contact the issuing embassy, consulate, or visa service provider for the specific reason. Common causes include incorrect documentation, missing fields, or ineligibility based on passport type. You may reapply once the issue is resolved. If applying through multiple channels, notify all services to avoid duplicate fees or conflicting applications.

Can minors apply for visas independently?

No, minors must be included on a parent or guardian's visa application. For visa-on-arrival and e-visa, dependents are listed during the initial authorization or online application. Minors traveling with guardians must have their own valid passports and be present during immigration processing. Consult the visa service provider regarding age limits and any special requirements for children.