Vietnam visa requirements for tourists

E-visa and online application

Vietnam's electronic visa (e-visa) is processed through the official government portal and represents the most convenient option for most international tourists. The e-visa allows single or multiple entry and is typically valid for 90 days from issue date, though the duration of stay permitted on entry varies by visa type. Applications are submitted online with a passport photo and biographical data. Processing typically takes 3 working days, though expedited options may be available. This channel is available to nationals of most countries. Fees vary based on processing speed and are subject to change; consult the official immigration portal for current pricing.

Processing time

Typically 3 working days

Validity from issue

Usually 90 days

Entry types

Single or multiple entry

Visa-on-arrival (VOA)

Visa-on-arrival is available for eligible nationals upon landing at major international airports and some land borders. This option requires pre-approval through authorized agencies before travel; the approval letter is then presented at immigration on arrival. VOA holders typically receive a 30-day single-entry permit, though 30-day multiple-entry variants exist. The process requires submission of passport details and a photograph to an approved agency, with fees varying by visa type and service provider. Processing timelines and total costs depend on the intermediary used. This method appeals to travelers who prefer not to apply online or need flexible timing.

Typical stay duration

30 days (single or multiple entry variants)

Approval method

Pre-approval letter required

Presentation location

Immigration desk at airport or land border

Visa-free and visa-exempt entry

Citizens of certain nations, primarily within ASEAN (Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Brunei, Myanmar, Philippines) and a limited number of other countries, may enter Vietnam without a visa for tourism purposes. Visa-free allowances typically permit 30-90 days of stay depending on nationality; ASEAN members generally receive longer permitted durations than non-ASEAN visa-free entrants. These travelers need only a valid passport. Eligibility is based on bilateral agreements and is subject to change. Always confirm your nationality's current status on the official Vietnamese immigration website or embassy before departure.

Typical ASEAN stay

Around 30-90 days

Entry requirement

Valid passport only

Primary eligible region

ASEAN member nations

Passport class differences and special cases

Nationals of G7 and other developed nations typically access e-visa and visa-on-arrival channels with standard processing. ASEAN passport holders and certain other nationalities enjoy visa-free entry advantages. Some diplomatic, official, or special-status passport holders may have different rules. Eligibility and processing speed can vary subtly by nationality, though most tourist-class applications follow standard channels regardless of passport strength. Travelers with non-standard passports (diplomatic, refugee, etc.) should contact their nearest Vietnamese embassy for specific guidance, as these categories fall outside routine tourist visa frameworks.

G7 nationals

E-visa and VOA typically available

ASEAN nationals

Often visa-free or shorter processing

Special passports

Contact embassy for guidance

Application resources and official channels

Vietnam's official immigration portal (immigration.gov.vn or equivalent) is the primary source for e-visa applications and current fee schedules. The Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs publishes visa policy updates and country-specific eligibility lists. International travelers should also consult their nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate for destination-specific guidance and to verify current rules. Third-party visa agencies can assist with visa-on-arrival arrangements, though fees and reliability vary. Given that visa policies change, applying through official channels or government-endorsed agencies minimizes delays and ensures compliance.

Official source

Vietnamese immigration portal

Policy updates

Ministry of Foreign Affairs website

Support channel

Nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate

Frequently asked

How long does it typically take to get a Vietnam e-visa?

E-visa processing usually takes approximately 3 working days through the official online portal. Some agencies offer expedited processing (1 day) for an additional fee. Processing times may vary during peak travel seasons or due to technical factors. Always submit applications well in advance of your intended travel date.

Can I extend my Vietnam tourist visa after arrival?

Yes, tourist visas can typically be extended through the Vietnamese immigration office or authorized agencies in-country. Extensions are subject to approval and fees apply. The extension period depends on your visa type and current immigration regulations. Contact immigration directly or a local travel agent for current extension procedures and costs.

Which nationalities can enter Vietnam without a visa?

Citizens of ASEAN member states (Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Brunei, Myanmar, Philippines) and some other nations enjoy visa-free entry for tourism. Permitted stay durations vary by nationality, typically ranging from 30 to 90 days. Confirm your nationality's current eligibility on the official Vietnamese immigration website before traveling.

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

E-visa is applied for online before arrival and typically takes 3 days to process. Visa-on-arrival requires a pre-approval letter (arranged through an agency) which you present at immigration upon landing. Both are widely available to most nationalities; choice depends on your preference for advance processing versus flexibility.

Do I need a return ticket to enter Vietnam?

Vietnam does not universally require proof of onward travel or return tickets for tourist visa issuance. However, individual airlines may demand proof of departure before boarding. It is advisable to have flexible travel arrangements in place and to review current entry requirements with your airline.

Are there different visa options for different lengths of stay?

Yes. Single-entry visas typically permit 30 days, while multiple-entry variants allow re-entry for longer total trips. E-visa and visa-on-arrival both offer these variants. Durations and fees vary; consult the official portal for specific options matching your travel timeline.