Vietnam visa requirements: How to enter as a tourist

Visa-free entry eligibility

Certain passport holders can enter Vietnam without a visa for tourism purposes. These typically include citizens of ASEAN member states (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand) and a limited number of other countries. Visa-free stays are usually short-term, generally ranging from 14 to 90 days depending on your passport. Citizens of major Western nations (US, UK, EU members, Australia, Canada) do not qualify for visa-free entry and must obtain a visa. Eligibility criteria can change, and border officials may ask for proof of onward travel or accommodation. Check the Vietnamese immigration authority's official website or your embassy for the most current visa-free country list specific to your nationality.

ASEAN countries

Generally eligible for visa-free entry

Typical visa-free duration

14–90 days (varies by nationality)

Best verification source

Vietnamese embassy or official immigration portal

E-visa system

Vietnam's e-visa system allows tourists to apply online from anywhere in the world before arrival. The application process is straightforward and typically takes 1–3 business days. E-visas are usually valid for single or multiple entries, with permission to stay ranging from 30 days (most common for tourists) to 90 days, though specific durations and purposes vary. Applicants submit a completed online form, passport scan, and a digital photograph, then receive the approved e-visa via email. Standard processing fees exist, though exact amounts fluctuate; budget for a fee when planning but confirm the current cost with the official immigration portal or a licensed agent. E-visas are printed at home and presented to immigration officers upon arrival. Note that e-visas are not available to all nationalities; some countries' citizens must use alternative entry routes.

Processing time

Typically 1–3 business days

Common stay duration

30 or 90 days

Application method

Online via official portal or licensed agents

Required documents

Passport scan, digital photo, completed form

Visa-on-arrival

Visa-on-arrival is arranged before traveling to Vietnam, typically through authorized agents or immigration service providers. You apply online or via an agent, who prepares an approval letter that you carry to the Vietnamese airport or border crossing. Upon arrival, you present the approval letter and pay the visa stamp fee in cash (amount varies by visa type and processing speed chosen). Standard, fast, and express processing speeds are typically available, with faster options incurring higher fees. The physical visa is stamped into your passport at immigration. Visa-on-arrival is popular because it can be slightly cheaper than e-visa depending on processing speed, and it may be available to some nationalities for whom e-visa is not offered. Processing fees and exact procedures change; use only licensed, established agents to avoid scams.

Application method

Via authorized agent or immigration provider

Approval delivery

Approval letter emailed to applicant

Visa stamp payment

Cash at border/airport upon arrival

Processing speed options

Standard, fast, express available

Passport requirements and nationality considerations

Vietnam's visa policies apply the same entry rules to most nationalities, though some countries' citizens have access to e-visa while others must use visa-on-arrival, and a small number qualify for visa-free entry. G7 nations (US, UK, France, Germany, Italy, Canada, Japan) and other major economies typically qualify for e-visa and visa-on-arrival options. ASEAN and selected developing-world passport holders often have visa-free access. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date from Vietnam. A blank visa page is required. If you hold a second or third passport, clarify which document you'll use for entry and inform agents accordingly. Embassy websites provide nationality-specific guidance; consult yours if unsure which pathway applies.

Passport validity requirement

Minimum 6 months beyond departure

Blank pages required

At least one blank visa page

G7 passport holders

Typically eligible for e-visa and on-arrival

Verification resource

Your nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate

Multiple-entry visas and extended stays

Tourists planning to exit and re-enter Vietnam during their trip can apply for multiple-entry visas through e-visa or visa-on-arrival systems. These cost more than single-entry options but allow border crossings (to Cambodia, Laos, or other neighbors) without requiring a new visa for each return. Extended stays beyond the standard 90 days require separate processing and are typically arranged through immigration authorities or travel agencies in Vietnam itself. Long-term options include business visas (requiring sponsorship), temporary residence cards (for stays of several months), and other specialized categories that fall outside standard tourist visa scope. Always consult official sources or your hotel's concierge for guidance on extending or modifying your visa status once in-country.

Multiple-entry availability

Available via e-visa and visa-on-arrival

Use case

Travel to neighboring countries and return

Extension options

Arranged in-country with immigration or agents

Standard tourist maximum

Typically 90 days (varies by type)

Frequently asked

Can I get a Vietnam visa on arrival at Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi?

Yes. Visa-on-arrival is processed at major airports including Noi Bai. You must have an approval letter obtained beforehand through an agent. Present it with your passport and pay the visa fee in cash upon arrival. Processing takes approximately 30–60 minutes at immigration.

How much does a Vietnam e-visa cost?

E-visa fees vary depending on processing speed and are subject to change. Standard processing typically costs less than express. Fees also differ by visa duration (30 vs. 90 days). Check the official Vietnamese immigration website or a licensed agent for current pricing before applying.

How long is a tourist visa valid for?

Most tourist visas permit a stay of 30 or 90 days. Validity dates appear on your visa; you must depart before the expiration. If staying longer, you must apply for an extension in-country through immigration authorities or a licensed agent before your current visa expires.

Do I need a visa if I hold a Singapore or Thai passport?

Citizens of ASEAN countries, including Singapore and Thailand, typically qualify for visa-free entry to Vietnam for tourism, usually up to 90 days. However, visa rules change; verify current eligibility with the Vietnamese embassy in your country before traveling.

What if my passport is damaged or expires soon?

Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure from Vietnam. If it expires sooner, renew it before applying for a visa. Damaged passports should be renewed through your home country's passport authority before visa application.

Can I work in Vietnam on a tourist visa?

No. Tourist visas (e-visa, visa-on-arrival, visa-free) are for tourism only and do not permit employment or business activities. Working requires a business visa or work permit, arranged separately through your employer or a Vietnamese immigration sponsor.